ArtDayMe: Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence and Chairman of the Board of Sandooq Al Watan, inaugurated the forum “Thinkers and Creators and Their Role in Supporting National Identity”, organized by the Sandooq Al Watan in cooperation with the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, with the participation of a distinguished group of officials and more than 1,200 writers, artists, researchers, and students.

In his keynote speech, Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, stressed that the efforts of the Sandooq Al Watan are guided by the directives of His Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, who always emphasizes that paying attention to national identity is a top priority in national work. He pointed out that the state is keen to support all efforts that achieve this at every level.

He expressed his pride in the partnership with the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, describing it as “a leading cultural and intellectual beacon” that contributes to achieving the UAE’s goals of empowering an advanced cultural movement.

He explained that the forum aims to strengthen the relationship between the Sandooq Al Watan and the creative community of writers, artists, and intellectuals, in a way that enriches the cultural and artistic content related to Emirati identity, values, and principles.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak emphasized that the Emirati national identity is an Arab, Islamic, and global identity that combines stability with flexibility, reinforcing human belonging and openness to diverse cultures.

He pointed out that identity represents the spiritual nourishment that achieves societal unity and forms part of the state’s soft power, stressing the importance of treating it as a national treasure that must be preserved and nurtured.

He also called on Emirati creators to present works that increase vitality and activity in fields of creativity linked to national identity, affirming that the Sandooq Al Watan will provide financial and moral support through incentives, grants, awards, recognition ceremonies, and the publication of distinguished works.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan also announced the launch of an online platform to receive proposals and initiatives from creators, giving them an opportunity to contribute to strengthening national identity.

For his part, Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Mohammed bin Rashid Library, affirmed that the Emirati national identity will remain strong and sustainable thanks to the wise vision of the country’s leadership. He praised the great efforts of Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan in enhancing national identity throughout his long career in education, culture, tolerance, and coexistence.

He noted that Emirati identity blends authenticity drawn from Arab, Islamic, and local heritage—rich with values and history—with modernity that is open to global intellectual and cultural production. This identity, he added, is embodied in the balance between human heritage and the state’s modern achievements.

He also commended the role of Sandooq Al Watan in supporting Emirati creators and enriching the cultural and artistic scene in a way that strengthens national identity.

The first session of the forum, titled “The Role of Creators in Strengthening National Identity”, witnessed wide engagement from writers, artists, and researchers. It was moderated by Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Director of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, who praised the role of the Mohammed bin Rashid Library in hosting this event, which brings together creativity, thought, and national identity. He affirmed that identity, with its constants and variables, represents fertile ground for authentic creativity.

The discussion also highlighted the importance of cooperation between creators and national institutions such as the Sandooq Al Watan, given its impact on developing intellectual production both in quality and quantity.

Artist Ismail Abdullah, Chairman of the Emirates Theatrical Association, stressed the pivotal role of Emirati theatre in reinforcing national identity and the importance of supporting it.

Visual artist Khalil Abdulwahid noted the ability of fine arts to express identity, while Emirati photographer Ali Al Shareef explained how photography documents national identity within a creative framework.

The second session showcased the initiatives and programs of the Sandooq Al Watan and their role in empowering youth and strengthening national identity, with the participation of prominent youth and academic figures.

The forum also dedicated a wide space to the initiative “Our Life in the UAE”, which brought together more than 500 writers, researchers, and university students to share their experiences and creativity, reflecting their deep sense of belonging and pride in the nation.