Dubai, 21 December 2021: Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA), in cooperation with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, celebrated on Monday the launch of a new heritage book documenting the story of Hatta.
Authored by Emirati writer and researcher, Juma Khalifa bin Thalith, the book was launched at a ceremony hosted at the Hatta Heritage Village in the presence of Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Director General of KHDA, Hala Badri, Director General of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, together with the people of Hatta.
The latest book ‘Hatta’ is part of the heritage book series developed by KHDA in partnership with Emirates Diving Association to highlight Emirati heritage and culture.
Dr Abdulla Al Karam, Director General of KHDA, said: "Hatta brings together the past and the present, and it draws on our aspirations for the future. The book is a treasure filled with insights on Hatta and the stories of its people and heritage."
He also noted the launch of the new book coincides with the comprehensive development plan for the Hatta, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The plan aims to position Hatta into an attractive local and international destination for business, investment and tourism.
Dr Abdulla added: "This book shines a light on Emirati heritage, and we hope it will build curiosity in young minds and create opportunities for students to learn and collaborate. We are grateful to our friends at Dubai Culture for collaborating with us in this important launch."
Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, said during the ceremony: "We are committed at Dubai Culture to encourage our community to create authentic cultural content that documents the history and heritage of the emirate as an attractive tourist destination capable of delivering diverse and entertaining experiences”.
She added: “Hatta is known for its climate, natural resources, and the kindness of its people - and this new book showcases its potential as a tourist destination. We are pleased to work together with our partners at Knowledge and Human Development Authority (KHDA) and create an important document that will serve as a reference and record for future generations.”
The book comes in eight chapters and 286 pages, covering a variety of historical, economic and social aspects of the Hatta region, the most famous landmarks of the region, the names of villages in the city of Hatta, the story of the first shop in Hatta, agricultural life in Hatta.