Launched by HH Sheikh Hamdan, the ‘Erth Dubai’ initiative draws over 5,000 contributions to archive Dubai’s stories and launches a new mobile app.
DUBAI: The community-driven cultural project ‘Erth Dubai’ has attracted more than 5,000 participants and exceeded one million in social media engagement since its launch in February 2025. The initiative aims to preserve the emirate’s stories and heritage through crowdsourced documentation.
Initiated by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, the campaign is among the most inclusive archival efforts ever undertaken in the UAE. Citizens and residents have shared personal memories and photographs via the project’s website and platforms, capturing the essence of life in Dubai through different generations.
The contributions reflect diverse aspects of Dubai’s history—ranging from education, arts, maritime life, to everyday moments in traditional neighbourhoods. The stories document values, customs and the rapid transformation of the emirate over time.
The new ‘Erth Dubai’ mobile app was launched to increase participation. With its easy-to-use features, people can now upload audio, text or visual content about their families or communities, making documentation more accessible for all.
Ahmed Saeed Al Sharid, General Coordinator of the initiative, said the public response reflects a deep awareness of the importance of preserving heritage. He acknowledged the continued support of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and the vision of HH Sheikh Hamdan as key drivers of the initiative.
The app also supports student engagement through the ‘School Challenge’, which honours pupils for outstanding historical submissions from their families.
‘Erth Dubai’ is part of a broader cultural strategy to preserve Dubai’s legacy and is linked to the development of the Dubai National Archive under the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library. Residents are encouraged to keep contributing through the new app or website.
