Sheikh Hamdan Launches 'Season of Wulfa' to Celebrate Emirati Heritage

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, has unveiled the Season of Wulfa, a new cultural initiative designed to celebrate Emirati traditions, values and heritage ahead of Ramadan and Eid.

Launched on Monday, the Season of Wulfa will run throughout Ramadan, Hag Al Leila and the Eid holidays, offering a wide range of community-focused activities that reflect Dubai’s cultural identity while promoting tolerance, coexistence and mutual respect.

The programme is led by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and aims to strengthen social bonds across Dubai’s diverse population by transforming long-standing customs into shared cultural experiences.

Celebrating heritage and social connection

The Season of Wulfa centres on key Emirati values such as reflection, connection and blessing, expressed through hospitality, neighbourhood gatherings and traditional practices. The initiative seeks to preserve cultural heritage while fostering a strong sense of belonging among residents and visitors alike.

Sheikh Hamdan said the initiative is designed to deepen cultural awareness and social harmony, noting:
“Our goal is to bring people closer, fostering deeper personal and social connections… transforming customs and traditions into tangible experiences that inspire participation and reinforce a culture of compassion and understanding.”

Citywide cultural programme

More than 50 initiatives will take place across 30 locations, including neighbourhoods, markets and cultural venues throughout Dubai. The programme is being delivered through collaboration between government entities, private sector partners and local communities.

Organisers say the events are intended to engage citizens, residents and tourists, reinforcing Dubai’s role as a global centre for cultural exchange and inclusive community life.

Blending tradition with creativity

Sheikha Latifa highlighted the initiative’s focus on combining heritage with modern creative expression, offering immersive cultural experiences that promote shared values and collective celebration. The Season of Wulfa also encourages participation from creatives and cultural practitioners, further strengthening Dubai’s reputation as a model for tolerance and coexistence.

The name “Wulfa” is derived from the Arabic word Ulfa, meaning familiarity, affection and closeness — a concept that reflects the spirit of community at the heart of the initiative.

Preserving living heritage

Through the Season of Wulfa, Dubai aims to safeguard its living cultural memory, inspire future generations and reinforce social cohesion, while celebrating the UAE’s heritage during one of the most meaningful periods of the year.

Today, we launched the Season of Wulfa in Dubai, an initiative overseen by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed that celebrates the spirit of Emirati culture and occasions, including Haq Al Leila, Ramadan, and Eid.

The Season of Wulfa strengthens family and social bonds, spreads warmth… pic.twitter.com/JadrqReMTz

— Hamdan bin Mohammed (@HamdanMohammed) January 12, 2026