For its very own celebratory showcase, Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates has launched a new cultural installation, entitled, “Zeman Awwal.” This particular concept takes visitors back in time to convey the UAE’s traditions and deep rooted history, whilst also reflecting on the country’s bright and visionary future. “Zeman Awwal” translates to “Old Times,” and the installation has nine different areas that include an immersive historic experience as well as workshops, food, activities, films, and exhibitions.
“Zeman Awwal” is spread across 1,100 sq meters and is expected to be a national day treat for visitors and residents in the UAE. Director of Mall of the Emirates Majid Al Futtaim Properties, Hussain Moosa spoke about the installation and said, “Everything that we deliver at Majid Al Futtaim has solid roots thanks to the strong leadership of the UAE who never cease to celebrate our traditions and maintain a future mindset to pave the way for generations to come.”
Guests of the exhibition can expect to experience archived footage of Emirati productions and films of what the UAE looked like pre-development. There is a Majlis Cinema which will allow visitors a unique visual experience as they watch 100,000 years of UAE history unfold with documentaries such as “History of the Emirates,” “Saruq Al Hadid” and “Al Kameen” which are shown on the screens of the majlis.
Not devoid of the country’s love for fashion, Zeman Awwal also features an exhibit of fashion through the ages in the UAE, in collaboration with the Zay initiative. Contemporary art by both local and international artists will also see a special feature of installations in the mall. Moosa also elaborated, “Through the launch of Zeman Awwal, visitors will be truly immersed in experiences curated to honor the essence of the UAE, which are not only entertaining but educational as well.”
Not just an entertaining experience for visitors, this exhibition conveys a form of cultural preservation in the country and celebrates all that the UAE has accomplished.
