Dubai is a city known for its tall skyscrapers, modern lifestyle, and global importance. But behind all the modern success lies a rich history of traditions, culture, and stories from the past. To make sure these memories are never forgotten, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, started a unique project called ‘Erth Dubai’.
The word “Erth” means “heritage” or “legacy,” and this initiative is all about saving and sharing personal stories about life in Dubai. Since its launch in February 2025, more than 5,000 people have already taken part, and the initiative has attracted over one million social media interactions.
Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel
What Is Erth Dubai?
‘Erth Dubai’ is one of the biggest community-led projects ever launched in the emirate. It allows both citizens and residents of Dubai to submit their personal stories, experiences, and memories about life in the city over the years.
The aim is simple but powerful: to create a huge archive of stories that reflects the growth of Dubai, its people, and its culture. These stories will not just highlight the city’s success but will also show the everyday lives of people who lived here through different generations.
What Kind Of Stories Are Shared?
The submissions are very diverse and rich in detail. They include:
-
Stories about how Dubai’s economy developed and grew.
-
Accounts of the education system and how schools shaped young generations.
-
Experiences of trade and artistic growth in the city.
-
Tales of traditional maritime life, including fishing practices and shipbuilding.
-
Memories from older neighborhoods that showcase customs, traditions, and the simple joys of daily life.
These personal accounts help bring history to life. Instead of reading only from textbooks, future generations will be able to hear directly from people who lived through different phases of Dubai’s development.
Why Is This Initiative Important?
Every city grows and changes with time. While we admire modern Dubai with its advanced infrastructure and global reputation, it is equally important to remember and respect the past.
The stories collected through ‘Erth Dubai’ will:
-
Preserve the identity and traditions of the emirate.
-
Help young people learn more about their roots.
-
Build a bridge between the past and the future.
-
Keep alive the values of community, resilience, and innovation that made Dubai what it is today.
This is why the initiative has gained huge popularity not only inside Dubai but also among cultural and media groups outside the UAE.
Social Media Engagement
One of the main reasons for the success of ‘Erth Dubai’ is its strong presence on social media. The initiative’s platforms share interactive posts that encourage people to upload their stories, photos, and even old family pictures.
So far, the initiative has seen over one million engagements online, which means people are liking, commenting, and sharing the content widely. This online buzz has created a sense of excitement and pride among residents, making even more people interested in joining.
Leadership Support
According to Ahmed Saeed Al Sharid, General Coordinator of the ‘Erth Dubai’ initiative, the success of the project would not have been possible without the strong support of the UAE leadership.
He explained that the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, along with the guidance of Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, has been the key driving force.
Al Sharid said the overwhelming response shows how much people value history and heritage. The leadership’s clear vision has turned this into a national mission rather than just a local project.
Launch Of The Erth Dubai Mobile App
To make participation even easier, the initiative has launched a brand-new mobile application.
The app has a simple and user-friendly design that allows users to:
-
Upload their stories in written or recorded formats.
-
Share old photographs or historical documents.
-
Connect their contributions with others through one interactive platform.
The app will speed up the process of collecting and organizing data, making the archive even richer. It also ensures that anyone, young or old, can take part without difficulty.
Youth Engagement – School Challenge
The initiative is also focusing on involving young people. A special event was organized to honor students who participated in the ‘School Challenge.’
Students submitted stories from their parents and grandparents, helping them connect with their family’s past. This not only made the students proud but also created a sense of responsibility to protect heritage. It showed that even the younger generation can play an active role in preserving Dubai’s story.
Future Plans For Erth Dubai
The first few months of ‘Erth Dubai’ have already been a big success. But this is just the beginning. The organizers plan to:
-
Expand the initiative to include even more people.
-
Make storytelling tools easier and more accessible.
-
Keep the archive growing so that it becomes a permanent national treasure.
The bigger goal is to make Dubai a shining example of a city that celebrates its past while moving confidently into the future.
Connection With The Dubai National Archive
‘Erth Dubai’ is part of a wider plan by Sheikh Hamdan to safeguard the emirate’s history and culture. It works alongside other projects such as the development of the Dubai National Archive under the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library.
Together, these efforts show Dubai’s strong commitment to building a bridge between heritage and modern progress.
‘Erth Dubai’ is more than just a cultural project. It is a movement of the people. By collecting stories from citizens and residents, it ensures that Dubai’s history is not just written by historians but by ordinary people who lived and experienced it.
With over 5,000 participants, one million social media engagements, and a new mobile app, the initiative has already made history itself. As it continues to grow, it will inspire generations to come and remind everyone that while Dubai’s future is bright, its roots will always remain deep and strong.
