The fourth and final week of Sandooq Al Watan’s nationwide summer programs launched with remarkable participation from Emirati school and university students, spotlighting an impressive range of artistic, cultural, and educational activities.
Held under the theme “My Nation, My Faith, My Certainty,” the week’s events were spread across 56 schools, five cultural centers, and five youth hubs throughout the UAE. Students showcased their talents in various artistic mediums, including visual arts, creative writing, Arabic calligraphy, and innovative works incorporating artificial intelligence.
Parents and educators widely praised the programs for their dynamic approach to fostering national identity, encouraging creativity, and instilling values rooted in Emirati culture. Among the highlights were activities centered around the Arabic language under the initiative “Arabic: The Language of the Qur’an,” which resonated strongly with students across participating schools.
Yasser Al-Gergawi, Director General of Sandooq Al Watan, emphasized the deep social responsibility embedded in these programs. “These summer initiatives reflect a sincere national spirit,” he noted. “They aim to translate the vision of our leadership by investing in youth development, nurturing innovation, and strengthening the sense of belonging to our homeland.”
He commended the efforts of teachers, coaches, writers, and creatives who played vital roles in the success of the programs. Al-Gergawi highlighted that these activities were far from simple recreational outlets—they offered meaningful opportunities for the younger generation to connect with Emirati heritage, explore their potential, and thrive in an environment that celebrates creativity.
Among the standout contributors was calligrapher Saeed Al Amri, who led workshops on the fundamentals and aesthetics of Arabic calligraphy throughout the four-week program. He spoke of the promising talents he encountered and the importance of supporting young artists in refining their skills. “These sessions weren’t just about technique—they were about nurturing a deeper emotional bond with the Arabic script and its cultural significance,” Al Amri said.
A Magical Theatrical Journey: The Secret of the Blue Neighborhood
One of the most talked-about events of the final week was the theatrical production “The Secret of the Blue Neighborhood,” performed at the Fujairah Cultural Center. Drawing in audiences of all ages, the play blended folklore, adventure, and national values into an engaging spectacle.
Set during the festive Emirati tradition of “Haq Al Laila,” the story follows five children from a neighborhood as they embark on a quest to collect sweets—only to find themselves in a mysterious adventure when their grandmother suddenly disappears. They confront the cunning witch Hawsah and navigate a magical world brimming with puzzles, symbolism, and cultural references.
Written by Abdullah Al Muhairi and directed by Hamad Al Hammadi, the play featured a talented ensemble of Emirati stage performers. Its mix of mystery, humor, and patriotic undertones left a lasting impression on viewers, reinforcing the overall message of the summer programs: nurturing identity, imagination, and community in the hearts of future leaders.
