World Heritage Day 2011 in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates

Since 1983

The idea of a day set aside to commemorate the world’s heritage – a day on which to highlight the efforts required to protect and conserve heritage and to underscore its vulnerability – was first mooted by the International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS).

The proposal was adopted by UNESCO in 1983 and ever since, April 18th has been observed as World Heritage Day the world over.

Fujairah’s Rich Heritage

Ahmed Khalifa Al Shamsi, the Chairman of the Fujairah Tourism and Antiquities Authority, said yesterday while preparing for the local celebration this week, “Fujairah has got so much heritage.” Then he went on to list these distinctive buildings and sites that this emirate has to celebrate and conserve:

• Bidyah Mosque
• Awhala Fort
• Al Hayl Palace
• Bithnah Fort and Village
• Fujairah Fort
• Wadi Wurayah

Showcasing Fujairah Heritage

In order to be true to fulfilling the aims of the World Heritage Day in the emirate of Fujairah, here are some actions to work on in this coming year:

1. Continuing the renovations of the heritage buildings while being true to the original designs.

2. Ensuring that all Fujairah sites are open to the public and have people on hand to ensure the security of the heritage treasures and the safety of those who visit. Employ park rangers to be stationed at Wadi Wurayah 24 hours a day.

3. Creating effective signage so people can visit heritage sites with understanding.

4. Training local people to work as heritage tour guides in all the major sites.

5. Ensuring that there is accurate and interesting information available in many languages to assist tourists and residents.

6. Creating a Welcome and Tourist Information Centre, possibly at the Fujairah Fort.

7. Developing heritage displays and cultural shops at the Fujairah Fort site, especially for short term tourists who are in the emirate for a day e.g. cruise ship visitors.

Further

UNESCO World Heritage Day Celebrated at Fujairah Fort, FIF, 17 April 2011.

Geoff Pound

This article is also posted on the Fujairah in Focus—Facebook Page.

Image: Cruise ship tourists enjoying one of Fujairah's heritage treasures.