Welcome to the World Heritage Committee!

There is an incredible vibe around me; I deliberately decided to write this column from the heart of the UNESCO Village here at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Manama. The diversity of the audiences around me is remarkable! Bahrain welcomes more than 2,000 delegates attending the 42nd meeting of the World Heritage Committee, this committee that is held on a yearly basis in different capitals around the world, Bahrain has been selected to host this year meetings and since that has been decided, the work began to cover every little details of this international meeting.

As I started from the heart of the UNESCO village, I would like to point out that the logo that has been chosen for this event, holds in its essence the wealth of our ancient history in Bahrain. The little gazelle with a turtle, beautifully crafted on a dilunm seal was the source of inspiration for the logo image representing this year committee meetings. It never fails to amaze me that even in the most ancient object, tones of modernism and contemporary essence can be felt. What I want to say about the logo in particular is that the image can be displayed today in any gallery or a modern art museum and it can fit beautifully to represent a strong visual statement

The huge importance of having the whole world here at your doorstep puts Bahrain on the international scene, promoting heritage protection and raising awareness to the importance of preserving historic sites all around the world. 

There is huge amount of work and topics to be addressed; I’m amazed at the evolving pop up exhibitions that take place within these committee meetings. There was a particular forum that took place last week for historic sites managers from all around the world, they all came together to share knowledge and exchange ideas of how to improve and overcome challenges that relate to maintaining these historic sites.

Another important pop up exhibition that took place at the UNESCO village was managed by ICCROM, there was display of international world heritage sites effected by wars, this hold an important message to the international community to get the support and funds allowing the restoration for these monuments. 

This is a time to reflect on the immense wealth of our world, this is a time to celebrate all delegates and give them the best hospitality, to showcase who we are in Bahrain, what our culture and history and modern day achievements are. It all start with a warm smile of welcome, it’s the most simple and inviting gesture. I’m proud to be part of an institution that looked after the committee meeting, I am proud of everyone at The Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities for their hard work and sleepless nights to make this event a success.

The elegance and functionally of the design and space that hold this conference was carefully crafted by our local talented designer Mr. Ammar Bashir and his team at French Design House, his attention to little details made the space reflect serenity and beauty and above all functionality. I am a firm believer that the esthetics of any space can create a huge impact on the mood for any function. Beauty is common element found in all the historic sites that we see today, beauty is a wealth that requires attention and this is the message that should always be in the heart of any work we take on board. We all are responsible to play an active role in raising awareness, and support the immense wealth of history and beauty found in all cultures Various delegates and subject experts during a photocall. around us.