Cultural diplomacy is considered a key pillar of the UAE's foreign policy. Instilled by the late Sheikh Zayed, the UAE was founded on the values of tolerance and peace. His strategy was based on showing friendship towards all cultures and people, promoting the values of moderate Islam and working with all nations to bring stability and peace to the world.

This strategy has been linked to the fraternal rapprochement with the GCC countries, particularly the Kingdom of Bahrain, which in October 2019 witnessed the inauguration of “Nuzul Alsalam” boutique hotel in the heart of the old city of Muharraq.  The hotel has been renovated with the support of the UAE Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development, coinciding with the Centennial of Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan “Year of Zayed”. This traditional house opens its courtyard and spaces to welcome visitors on the Pearling Path in Muharraq; which is inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List; and considered the first hotel to be located on this path.  “Nuzul Alsalam” reflects the authenticity of the architectural style of the Kingdom of Bahrain, and its rooms are adorned with quotes by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

With this upcoming anniversary, The UAE’s Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with Culture and Antiquities Authority and Sheikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture & Research in the Kingdom of Bahrain, will inaugurate the "Green Corner" project in October 2020. The project will host an archive of Bahraini art, the restoration of manuscripts and the preservation of books and paintings.

The "Green Corner" building is one of the most distinctive architectural designs in Muharraq. Moreover, this project will preserve the heritage which reflects the richness of literary and artistic legacy through document preservation, a work that requires adopting special methodologies and approaches.

The “Green Corner” project represents the first fruits of a number of agreements signed with Sheikh Ebrahim Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Centre for Culture & Research during the High Joint Committee meeting between the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Bahrain. It is a testament to the UAE's interest and commitment to support heritage revival projects and preserve cultural heritage regionally and internationally.

These cultural projects reflect the keenness of the two countries to preserve the historical heritage of the region, namely the architectural heritage through the restoration of old houses in Muharraq area. The “Green Corner” project is expected to be distinctive in its own right due to its position close to a vertical garden and not to mention its important role in preserving the artistic history of the Kingdom of Bahrain.

Sultan bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan

Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the Kingdom of Bahrain