ANI
16 Nov 2025, 00:05 GMT+10
Dubai [UAE], November 15 (ANI/WAM): The ICOM Dubai 2025 Organising Committee handed over the ICOM flag to the city of Rotterdam, Netherlands, which will host the 28th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM 2028).
The handover took place during the closing ceremony of the 27th General Conference of ICOM Dubai 2025, held under the patronage of Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai. This marked the first time the conference was hosted in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
The flag design draws inspiration from the intricate embroidery and artistry of the traditional Al Talli craft, reflecting local cultural identity, the nation's deep connection to its intangible heritage, and its commitment to preserving this legacy for future generations.
The execution of the ICOM flag project involved a series of stages, starting with the production of individual Talli strips, followed by the creation of the ICOM logo and its meticulous attachment to the fabric. Each stage highlighted the precision and creativity of Emirati craftsmanship. Three copies of the flag were produced: one was handed over to the city of Rotterdam, Netherlands, while the second was archived in the ICOM archives, and the third was kept in Dubai, the host city of the current edition.
A group of Emirati women artisans from different emirates contributed to weaving the flag in accordance with the traditional Talli craft, creating a distinctive artwork that embodies the beauty of local heritage and the precision of its inherited crafts. Their contributions also highlight the integral role Emirati craftsmanship plays in the nation's cultural identity.
The flag was designed by Emirati artist Sara Al Khayyal, with support from Sandooq Al Watan, a contributing partner. The artwork harmoniously combines contemporary creativity with the traditional Talli weaving craft, a long-standing symbol of local heritage and Emirati women's skill. The initiative reflects Dubai's commitment to preserving traditional crafts and its living heritage, as well as celebrating its cultural value globally.
The design highlights the ICOM logo in two shades of blue, woven using four traditional Talli stitches: Fanikh Al Batikh, Alberwi (or Almeshara), Alfin, and Alkouli. Showcasing the artisans' skill and the richness of the UAE's culture and heritage, these stitches help powerfully convey the conference theme, 'The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities.' Through the harmony of these patterns, the artwork expresses unity in diversity. The exquisite craftwork highlights the role of culture as a bridge between peoples, a platform for future foresight, and a celebration of creativity.
It is noteworthy that in 2022, the UAE succeeded in having the Talli craft inscribed on UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list. This achievement reflects the nation's commitment to safeguarding its rich heritage, promoting it internationally, and ensuring the right environment for traditional industries to thrive.
A traditional craft practised by women within Emirati households, Talli is one of the most prominent components of local cultural heritage passed down through generations. This manual craft is characterised by its fine metallic and silk threads, vibrant colours, and designs inspired by local elements. A genuine art form that reflects the identity and aesthetic values of Emirati society, Talli remains a living craft taught and passed on within families, schools, and cultural centres. The traditional craft continues to play a key role in bridging generations and preserving Emirati identity and creativity. (ANI/ WAM)
Get a daily dose of Iran Herald news through our daily email, its complimentary and keeps you fully up to date with world and business news as well.
Publish news of your business, community or sports group, personnel appointments, major event and more by submitting a news release to Iran Herald.
More InformationLONDON, U.K.: Global demand for oil and gas could keep rising until 2050, the International Energy Agency said on November 12. This...
NEW YORK CITY, New York: If you rely on premium rewards credit cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve or Citi Strata Elite, your next...
NEW YORK, New York - U.S. stock markets closed out Friday's session with a mixed performance, as investors balanced ongoing rate expectations,...
NEW YORK CITY, New York: Two Hollywood icons are lending more than just their star power to artificial intelligence. Michael Caine...
JOHANNESBURG, South Africa: South Africa's largest mobile operator, Vodacom Group, has signed a deal with Elon Musk's Starlink to provide...
HOUSTON, Texas: Chevron announced on November 12 that it aims to grow free cash flow by more than 10 percent annually through 2030...
DUBAI, U.A.E.: U.S. President Donald Trump has been promoting the idea of Saudi Arabia normalizing relations with Israel, but such...
Dubai [UAE], November 15 (ANI/WAM): The ICOM Dubai 2025 Organising Committee handed over the ICOM flag to the city of Rotterdam, Netherlands,...
The rains had a harsh impact on people across the Gaza Strip, with damage to personal belongings and thousands of displaced families...
KUWAIT CITY, Nov. 15 (Xinhua) -- For years, Mansour Al-Qallaf, a Kuwaiti lawyer, endured persistent headaches and declining vision....
Chennai (Tamil Nadu) [India], November 15 (ANI): The Indian Junior Men's Hockey Team touched down in Chennai on Saturday ahead of the...
ABU DHABI, 15th November, 2025 (WAM) -- President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has sent a congratulatory message...
