For decades, Qasr Al Hosn would have been the tallest structure for miles around. Today, the most historic building in Abu Dhabi is dwarfed by the gleaming glass and steel buildings that surround it. But it is still a vital and central part of the Abu Dhabi story, and the Qasr Al Hosn Festival is a chance for people to see – and feel – how connected this fort-palace is to the past and future of the capital.
As the motto “Take part in history” reminds us, the 11-day festival recalls our past. It brings to our attention the history of this land, even before the establishment of the UAE as a nation, and returns us to a time when the lifestyle and architecture were very different from today. But, as The National reported yesterday, it is not merely a celebration of the history of the place, but also an important effort to preserve the extended heritage of the UAE, both tangible and intangible.
In a sense, too, we are not merely taking part in history, we are watching it being made. The march from Al Manhal Palace to Qasr Al Hosn on Wednesday night, led by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, accompanied by thousands of dignitaries and citizens, has become an annual tradition. There is something fascinating about taking part or watching this unfold – it is an intangible link to the past, even though it is a new custom, and somehow a physical representation of the bond between the Rulers and the people.
The march from Al Manhal could easily become a tradition every bit as important as the physical fort-palace. It is pleasing to think that in decades to come the very same steps will be walked to the very same Qasr Al Hosn, but by those who have no memory of the Abu Dhabi of today.
As Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed said on Twitter: “The UAE is proud of its cultural heritage, which we’ll preserve and transfer to future generations to safeguard our authentic Emirati identity.” Events like the Qasr Al Hosn Festival play a major role in accomplishing this mission. As we look to the UAE of the past, so future generations will look back to what we make of the present.