Hamdan bin Mohammed directs grant for ‘Dubai Dates’ participants on conclusion of event’s third edition

Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has directed an AED1 million grant to support participants in ‘Dubai Dates,’ in appreciation of their role in preserving and strengthening the UAE’s national heritage. The grant comes as part of His Highness’s continued support for the efforts of the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, and for the sustainability of initiatives that serve both heritage and society. The generous grant carries a deep significance, reflecting the place the palm tree holds in the vision of the leadership as a national symbol rooted in Emirati memory, and as a living element in the relationship between people, land, and identity. It also represents direct support for palm owners, farmers, and participants whose presence and contributions helped ensure the success of the event’s third edition and strengthen its community message. On this occasion, His Excellency Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook, CEO of the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, expressed his deep gratitude and appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan, affirming that His Highness’s grant is a mark of recognition for everyone who contributed to preserving this symbol of national heritage. He noted that it also sends a clear message that heritage in Dubai is supported by a leadership that truly believes that safeguarding identity begins with supporting its people and empowering initiatives that keep its symbols alive within society. His Excellency said: “His Highness’s grant is not merely support for the participants; it is an acknowledgement of the value of their efforts in serving the palm tree and the national heritage. This support reflects the approach of a leadership that views heritage as a national responsibility, and believes that preserving identity is achieved not only through words, but through action, care, and continuous encouragement for all those who carry this heritage forward and work to ensure its continuity.” Bin Dalmook added: “This grant gives the event an even greater dimension and affirms that the palm tree is not only a heritage symbol, but part of the conscience of Emirati society and the memory of the nation. His Highness’s directives also serve as the compass that guides us at the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, inspiring us to develop initiatives that are closer to the community and more capable of connecting new generations with their heritage.” Incentive for participants and organisers alike His Excellency further affirmed that the Center will continue working to strengthen the presence of national heritage symbols in society through events and initiatives that combine authenticity with development. He said: “This generous grant is a major incentive for participants and organisers alike, and places upon us a greater responsibility to continue developing ‘Dubai Dates’ in a manner worthy of His Highness’s vision, one that reflects the authentic cultural identity of Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, and keeps heritage present in people’s everyday lives.” Organised by the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center from 18 to 26 July 2026 at Qalaat Al Rimal on the Dubai–Al Ain Road, ‘Dubai Dates’ concluded its third edition following a series of vibrant competitions and activities, drawing strong public attendance and a string of official visits. This edition reaffirmed that the palm tree continues to bring the community together around its enduring value—not merely as a symbol recalled from memory, but as a living presence in the home, the farm, and the institution. The final day witnessed the crowning of the winners of ‘Al Nader Cup,’ one of the event’s most prominent competitions. The winners were honoured by His Excellency Lieutenant General Mohammed Ahmed Al Marri, Director General of the General Directorate of Identity and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai, and His Excellency Abdullah Hamdan bin Dalmook, CEO of the Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Center, accompanied by Rashid Mubarak bin Markhan Al Ketbi, Deputy CEO of the Center. The closing event showcased exceptional standards of competition, reflecting the participants’ expertise in caring for palm trees and selecting the finest varieties. Shield of Excellence Ateeq Saif Al Omaimi won the ‘Al Das Al Thahabi’ Award, the Shield of Excellence in the third edition of ‘Dubai Dates,’ after scoring the highest total points across the event’s competitions. This recognition reflects the value of an award that celebrates continuity, consistency, and the quality of participation throughout the event. ‘Dubai Dates’ received significant attention, follow-up, and attendance from national figures, officials, and representatives of government entities, highlighting the deep-rooted value of the palm tree in the Emirati conscience, as well as the event’s message, which extends beyond competition into a wider space of