Open to the Public Until 3rd May | Explore the Evolution of Emirati Women’s Attire, Jewellery, Poetry and Culture
Abu Dhabi, UAE – 10 April 2025 – Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD), in proud collaboration with the National Library and Archives, the Observatoire des patrimoines de l’Alliance Sorbonne Université, and Dubai Culture, has officially opened the doors to its groundbreaking exhibition, Threads of Heritage: Emirati Women’s Traditional Fashion and Jewellery. Held at SUAD’s iconic Atrium, the exhibition offers an immersive experience into the aesthetic and cultural evolution of Emirati women’s attire and identity, and will remain open to the public until 3rd May 2025.
Part of the UAE’s 2025 Year of Community initiative, the exhibition stands as a vibrant tribute to the country’s deep-rooted cultural legacy. Visitors can journey through time via meticulously curated garments, ornate jewellery, rare artefacts, and poetic excerpts – each narrating the story of Emirati women across generations.
Curated by Dr Christophe Moulherat, Associate Professor in the History of Art & Archaeology Department and renowned textiles specialist, the exhibition explores four key dimensions:
- Chronological Displays of traditional garments and jewellery from the early 20th century to the present day, with a spotlight on the 1970s as a transformative period in Emirati history.
- Rare Archaeological Artefacts that bring to light ancient craftsmanship and cultural symbolism.
- Documentary Archives including travelogues, personal manuscripts, and diplomatic records providing a contextual backdrop to the evolution of fashion.
- Poetic Reflections drawn from Emirati poets and classical Arabic literature, adding lyrical depth to the overall experience.
Professor Nathalie Martial-Braz, Chancellor of Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, shared:
“At Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, we believe cultural heritage is a living thread that connects the past to the present. Through Threads of Heritage, we are proud to provide a space where the public can engage with the stories, styles, and traditions that have shaped Emirati identity. In the spirit of the UAE’s 2025 Year of Community, this exhibition reflects our ongoing mission to celebrate diversity, preserve culture, and spark meaningful dialogue.”
The exhibition is designed to engage students, scholars, families, and the broader community with a rich and inclusive representation of Emirati heritage. Educational institutions and cultural organizations are particularly encouraged to participate and explore the historical depth and creative expression on display.
Event Details:
- Exhibition: Threads of Heritage: Emirati Women’s Traditional Fashion and Jewellery
- Dates: Daily until 3rd May 2025
- Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Venue: Atrium, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi
- Admission: Free and open to the public
- To register and learn more: https://www.sorbonne.ae/news-and-events/events/exhibition-threads-of-heritage-emirati-womens-traditional-fashion-and-jewellery/
About Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi (SUAD)
Founded in 2006 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, SUAD brings the academic legacy of Sorbonne University Paris to the UAE. Located on Al Reem Island, SUAD offers world-class education within a dynamic and multicultural environment. The university’s programmes are accredited by both French and UAE educational authorities, and to date, more than 2800 students from over 90 nationalities have graduated from SUAD.
Sorbonne Université ranks among the world’s top 50 universities, recognized for its excellence in arts, science, law, and humanities. The School of Arts and Humanities at SUAD was named the #1 Humanities Education University by the Forbes Middle East Higher Education Awards 2019.
More information about SUAD: http://www.sorbonne.ae
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