Al Ain Museum celebrates Emirati heritage with Al Zaffa panel

Al Ain Museum hosted a special panel on Al Zaffa, the traditional Emirati wedding procession recently added to UNESCO’s heritage list, featuring historians and live performances.

Al Zaffa Traditions: Emirati Wedding Customs & Cultural Heritage at Al Ain Museum

Al Ain Museum recently hosted a dedicated session on Al Zaffa, exploring the rich traditions of the Emirati wedding procession. This cultural talk, held on Thursday, 15 January 2026, delved into the significance of these ancient customs. According to the announcement from Al Ain Museum, the event was part of the "Museum Talks" series and aimed to highlight the social customs that shape this significant ritual.

The session brought together historians and heritage experts to discuss the importance of Al Zaffa, which was recently inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. For residents and visitors interested in local traditions, the event offered a deep dive into how these practices reflect national identity.

Celebrating Al Zaffa: Emirati Wedding Heritage

The panel discussion titled "Al Zaffa: A Living Wedding Tradition" featured prominent voices in the field, including historian Saeed Al Suwaidi, heritage expert Ateeqa Al Muheirbi, and intangible heritage researcher Al Hath Al Kuwaiti. They explored the history of the bridal procession and its evolution over generations. Beyond the academic discussion, the event included a live Emirati Zaffa performance, giving attendees a firsthand look at the chants and rhythms that accompany the tradition. Guests also experienced traditional Emirati cuisine and live demonstrations of handicrafts, adding a practical element to the historical context.

Preserving Al Zaffa: Why Emirati Heritage Matters

This event underscores the UAE's broader efforts to preserve its intangible cultural heritage. The recent UNESCO recognition of Al Zaffa places it alongside other protected traditions, ensuring it remains a living practice rather than just history. Events like these at Al Ain cultural sites play a crucial role in passing these customs to younger generations.

Event Details

The talk took place at Al Ain Museum in the Al Ain region. While this specific session has concluded, the museum regularly hosts cultural events and exhibitions focused on UAE history. The programme also included interactive workshops for children, making it a family-friendly outing for the community, reinforcing Al Ain Museum's role in preserving and celebrating Emirati heritage as part of UNESCO intangible cultural heritage efforts.

Getting There

Al Ain Museum is located in the heart of Al Ain, near the Al Oasis. For future visits to the museum, it is best reached by car or taxi. If you are driving from Dubai, expect a journey of about 90 minutes. Parking is generally available near the museum grounds.

FAQs

What is Al Zaffa?

Al Zaffa is a traditional bridal procession and a key ritual in Emirati weddings. It involves chants, music, and specific social customs. It was recently inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Where did the event take place?

The cultural panel and celebration were held at Al Ain Museum in Al Ain, which regularly hosts events focused on Emirati heritage and history.

Who spoke at the Al Zaffa panel?

The panel featured historian Saeed Al Suwaidi, heritage expert Ateeqa Al Muheirbi, and intangible heritage researcher Al Hath Al Kuwaiti, who provided historical context on the tradition.

Is Al Ain Museum family-friendly?

Yes, Al Ain Museum events often cater to families. This specific event included interactive workshops designed for children alongside the main panel discussion.