UAE launches National Register of Modern Heritage to strengthen national identity

The UAE has launched a National Register of Modern Heritage as part of wider efforts to preserve cultural landmarks and strengthen Emirati identity across future generations.

The initiative was announced during the first meeting of the National Identity Committee, chaired by Her Higness Sheikha Mariam bint Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice Chair of the Education, Human Development and Community Development Council.

The committee also reviewed the National Identity Values Narrative Guide, which aims to provide a unified framework defining Emirati identity as a living cultural heritage reflected in daily life, values and community behaviour. Officials say the guide will help government entities shape policies, strategies and programmes that align with national identity goals.

The heritage register will serve as a national reference platform to document and catalogue buildings and sites of cultural importance across the UAE, particularly modern architectural landmarks dating from the post-1960s period. It forms part of the national policy for preserving modern architectural heritage and is designed to protect sites that reflect the country’s social and cultural development.

Discussions also focused on the National Identity Index, a national tool created to measure how strongly citizens and residents connect with and take pride in the UAE’s national identity. Officials say the index will help track progress and guide future initiatives aimed at strengthening social cohesion and belonging.

Sheikha Mariam said national identity should not be seen simply as an idea, but as something lived every day through homes, language and contributions to the community. She said the current focus is on turning the National Identity Strategy into clear priorities with measurable impact, while balancing authenticity with innovation and diversity with unity.

The National Identity Committee oversees the UAE’s National Identity Strategy, which was approved last year, and works to align efforts across sectors including education, media, culture, the economy, family and society through 25 strategic pillars.