Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is celebrating the eight edition of its ‘Live Our Heritage Festival’, running from March 1 to April 7 at Global Village.

Held under the theme of ‘An Eye on Emirati Cultural Heritage’, the festival will focus on educating the public about UAE traditional handicrafts and heritage.

Until Thursday, the festival will educate visitors about palm frond braiding (SAF Al Khos), which is one of the handicrafts of the UAE, especially in areas where palm cultivation is practised. The workshop includes an introduction to the craft, the concept and history behind it, its origins in natural resources, and its use. During the week, craftsmen will also teach visitors how the raw materials are gathered and the various steps of weaving.

A number of other cultural activities will also be held this week, including traditional folk dances such as the Al Ayyala, Al Harbiya, Yola and Rafza, as well as the Liwa fold dance. The Omar Bin Al Khattab Centre, which is one of Dubai’s ‘Heritage Development Centres’, is also hosting activities including a Year of Zayed-inspired live painting and a variety of folk and traditional arts.