Zayed National Museum, under the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Bahrain National Museum, part of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities, have signed an agreement to enhance cooperation and coordination in various cultural fields including conservation and museum management.

The agreement will facilitate the exchange of expertise and promote the rich historical heritage of both the UAE and Bahrain. The memorandum was signed by His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi and His Excellency Sheikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities.

His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said: "Working together with the Kingdom of Bahrain, we are seizing a significant opportunity to learn from each other and identify new avenues to preserve and promote the collective culture of the Arabian Gulf region. We are both safeguarding our proud cultural identity and longstanding traditions for our youth and the generations to come, as well as sharing it with our visitors and audiences around the world."

His Excellency Sheikh Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Khalifa, President of the Bahrain Authority for Culture and Antiquities said: "The strong relationship between the Kingdom of Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates underscores the importance of this memorandum as a pioneering step in strengthening cooperation and cultural ties between our countries. This collaboration contributes to the exchange of knowledge and understanding of the region's rich history, which extends over thousands of years.

"The memorandum reflects the Bahrain Museum's commitment to preserving cultural and historical heritage and fostering interest in culture and museums, showcasing the historical dimensions and cultural depth of our two brotherly countries."

Under the memorandum, both parties will develop a series of exchange programmes to serve areas of collaboration, organise joint exhibitions and displays in both countries, and create materials and programmes for all exhibitions. They will also develop programmes to improve the skills of museum curators and staff and introduce targeted groups to the collections and exhibits of the Zayed National Museum and the Bahrain National Museum through relevant activities, events, seminars and lectures.

The two parties agreed to invite museum sector professionals from both sides to conduct historical and scientific research of mutual interest, regularly exchange exhibits, and provide mutual training programmes for staff in conservation, preventive care, museum education, and visitor services. They will also offer mutual consulting services in various fields related to museum science and management.

Through their collaborative spirit, Zayed National Museum and Bahrain National Museum are safeguarding the rich histories of their countries and creating opportunities for increased dialogue and cultural exchange. This partnership seeks to strengthen the region's cultural fabric, enhance global awareness of the GCC's cultural richness, and ensure future generations can connect with their identity and learn from their heritage and traditions.