Qasr Al Hosn receives its first members of the public since restoration completion

Abu Dhabi, 8 December 2018 –   Qasr Al Hosn, the UAE capital’s most important cultural site, has now reopened to the public following more than a decade of careful restoration by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). Today, the historic gates were once again opened and visitors entered to be able to experience a celebration of the emirate’s rich history and culture that marks the start of a week-long programme of public events and programmes. Performances from Salem Shukri Al Attas, the Soaud Massi Trio Al Ain marked the opening day festivities, with a a performance of Memory of an Emirati Song by Khalid Mohammed & Fatima Zahrat and many more will follow in the coming week.

SOAUD MASSI TRIO
Often cited as one of North Africa’s greatest female singers, Souad Massi is back on tour with a new program from her sixth studio album El Mutakallimûn (Masters of the Word). The album brings to life a set of Arabic poems that date back to the sixth century. Her performance will also include some of the greatest songs from her back catalogue - including Yemma, Deb, Amessa and Hayati. She will be joined onstage by long standing companions and friends, percussionist Rabah Khalfa and guitarist Mehdi Dalil. Together, they enjoy an almost telepathic musical connection that speaks of deep love and respect for one another.

SALEM SHUKRI AL ATTAS
Salem is a 25 year old Emirati performing poet who began reciting poetry in 2012. Originally a process Engineer with a passion for the arts, he has since won several Poetry Slam competitions and awards, including Performer of The Year 2014 and the Abu Dhabi Grand Slam Finale Championship hosted by Rooftop Rhythms. Attas has also co-hosted the First Annual Abu Dhabi International Poetry Festival and given numerous workshops on performance poetry and delivery.

Attas is very active in the community as a guest speaker, giving talks to students on performance, as well as having been a guest.

In addition to the musical performances, a number of activations as part of the opening week celebrations will bring the site’s history to life and offer visitors a glimpse into the story of Abu Dhabi and its people. The opening week programming will include activities exploring Emirati history and culture, from traditional Talli embroidery, rope-making and khoos weaving to learning about how the first fishing nets were cast and made, how fish were salted, and how oysters are opened.

Al Hosn is Abu Dhabi’s original urban block, comprising four interrelated components: the historic Qasr Al Hosn Fort, the National Consultative Council building, the Cultural Foundation and the House of Artisans. 

OPENING WEEK PROGRAMMING

The opening of Al Hosn site will be marked with a week-long celebration from 7 to 15 December 2018. 

Memory of an Emirati Song – Khalid Mohammed & Fatima Zahrat Al Ain