Dubai, Mar. 22, 2009 (WAM) — Vice President and Prime Minister of UAE and The Ruler of Dubai, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, toured the historic Bastikiya area on the Dubai Creek.

Sheikh Mohammed visited a number of cultural and heritage activities being organised by the “Dubai Culture and Arts Authority as part of the “Dubai Culture” project which was launched by Sheikh Mohammed last year.

The Dubai Culture project is aimed at transforming Dubai into arts and cultural landmark, Dubai’s forums and cultural centres to become centre of attraction for artists & culture lovers worldwide.

Sheikh Mohammed started the tour with a visit to the traditional community market where about 40 national families are showcasing their products, including handicrafts, local dishes and cuisine. He then moved to the art gallery hall where art works of more than 35 artists are on show.

Sheikh Mohammed expressed great admiration on some valuable paintings, which depict nature, environment and expressive humanitarian situations. He was also treated to international musical show by a German pianist, whose songs won the admiration of Sheikh Mohammed and many tourists who thronged the place.

Sheikh Mohammed also visited the international art stand of UAE fine artist, Fatima Lootah, who put on show some of her finest art works she had earlier showcased in Italy. Lootah briefed the Dubai Ruler about the meanings of her paintings, which reflect local environment, culture and heritage. He praised her for her international achievements and expressed great pride to see an Emirati artist reaching international stardom.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied on the tour by Minister for Cabinet Affairs, Mohammed bin Abdullah Al-Gergawi, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre, Dr. Omar Mohammed Ahmed bin Sulaiman, who is also the Managing Director of “Dubai Culture”, Director General of Dubai’s Department of Protocol and Guests, Khalifa Saeed Sulaiman and a number of UAE cultural personalities.