Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) organised a new session in its Library Talks series titled ‘The Culture of Loyalty and Belonging’, bringing together prominent Emirati thinkers and creatives to discuss values linked to national identity and social unity.
The event was held at the Etihad Museum as part of Dubai Culture’s flagship School of Life initiative, reflecting the Authority’s efforts to strengthen community ties and promote a deeper sense of belonging among citizens and residents.
The panel featured Dr Maryam Sultan Lootah, Emirati writer and Assistant Professor in the Department of Political Science at United Arab Emirates University; Mohammed Saeed Harib, Emirati director, actor, voice artist and lyricist; Shaikha Al Muteiri, Emirati poet, writer and Secretary General of the Emirates Writers Union; and Dr Rafia Ghubash, writer, psychiatrist and founder of the Women’s Museum in Dubai.
During the discussion, speakers examined loyalty and belonging as values expressed through everyday behaviour and attitudes. They highlighted the role of public awareness in building trust and maintaining social stability.
The panelists also described loyalty as a key principle that supports social cohesion and stressed the responsibility of individuals in identifying facts and rejecting misinformation.
The session further explored how Mohammed Saeed Harib reflected these values through the popular Freej series, presenting it as an important part of Emirati traditions and culture.
Speakers also noted that daily actions rooted in authentic values help create a positive image of the nation.
Audience members actively participated in the event, which also included patriotic poetry recitations.
Dubai Culture said the Library Talks series seeks to connect creative talent with the wider public, enrich the cultural landscape, and strengthen Dubai’s standing as a global centre for culture, a hub for creativity, and a destination for talent.
