Erth Dubai Initiative Draws 5,000+ Contributors, Reaches 1 Million Online Engagements
The ‘Erth Dubai’ initiative, launched by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has rapidly grown into one of the most extensive community-led cultural projects in the emirate, attracting over 5,000 participants since February 2025.
The initiative invites citizens and residents to share personal stories, memories, and photographs, creating a rich digital archive of Dubai’s history spanning decades. The campaign has also achieved over 1 million interactions on social media, demonstrating widespread public engagement and enthusiasm.
Highlights of Erth Dubai Contributions
- Stories covering economic, educational, trade, and artistic development
- Accounts of maritime life, traditional fishing, and shipbuilding
- Memories of daily life in historical neighborhoods
- Intergenerational storytelling capturing customs, traditions, and Dubai’s evolving culture
Ahmed Saeed Al Sharid, General Coordinator of Erth Dubai, emphasized the community’s dedication:
“The overwhelming response reflects a deep awareness of preserving Dubai’s heritage. The guidance of HH Sheikh Hamdan ensures this documentation effort remains national, inclusive, and enduring.”
Erth Dubai Mobile App: Expanding Participation
To make contribution even easier, the initiative launched a user-friendly mobile application:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Story Submission | Upload written or audio stories |
| Media Support | Add photos, documents, or videos |
| Interactive Platform | Connect with other contributors and explore stories |
| Youth Engagement | Participate in school challenges honoring family heritage |
The app is designed to accelerate data collection, strengthen community connections, and provide a central platform for Dubai’s historical content.
Youth and School Engagement
Erth Dubai has introduced a ‘School Challenge’, encouraging students to document stories from parents and grandparents. Exceptional submissions are recognized and celebrated, fostering heritage awareness among younger generations.
Looking Ahead
The initiative continues to expand under the vision of HH Sheikh Hamdan, aiming to:
- Broaden citizen and resident participation
- Enhance accessibility of documentation tools
- Reinforce Dubai’s reputation as a city that honours its past while building its future
Erth Dubai remains a cornerstone project in the preservation of Dubai’s cultural legacy, complementing initiatives like the Dubai National Archive at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library.
Citizens and residents are encouraged to submit personal stories via the Erth Dubai website or the new mobile app to become part of Dubai’s living history.
