The Ministry of Culture, in cooperation with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and Alserkal Advisory, has announced the inclusion of 'Dar Al Ittihad' in the National Register of Modern Architectural Heritage. The announcement was made during a visit by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, to the building — a step that reflects the United Arab Emirates' commitment to reinforcing national identity and deepening the connection of future generations to their country's history, through the preservation of nationally significant landmarks of historical, cultural, and architectural value.
During the visit, the official plaque marking Dar Al Ittihad's inclusion in the National Register of Modern Architectural Heritage was unveiled. The register was launched by the Ministry of Culture with the aim of documenting and protecting buildings and sites of architectural and historical importance in the UAE, and highlighting their role in shaping national memory and strengthening the country's cultural identity.
Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi toured the corridors of Dar Al Ittihad and reviewed the key milestones in the founding of the union and the pivotal role the site played in the history of the UAE — having hosted the meetings that paved the way for the declaration of the union on 2 December 1971 — cementing its status as a national symbol embodying the values of unity, cohesion, and the shared vision of the founding fathers.
The visit also included a dialogue session with His Excellency Zaki Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the President of the State, entitled 'Dar Al Ittihad: A Celebration of Modern Architectural Heritage', attended by a number of national figures who witnessed the founding era of the union and its historic events. Participants shared their memories and personal experiences connected to Dar Al Ittihad, affirming its standing as a living testament to one of the most important chapters in the country's history.
Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum affirmed that Dar Al Ittihad represents a prominent national and cultural beacon and a witness to the nation's memory and journey — the place that brought together the founding fathers and witnessed the birth of the UAE, a country that placed the individual at the centre of development and made ambition its path to achievement.
Her Highness said: