Abu Dhabi art and design showcase brushes up support for Gaza relief effort
The Ataya exhibition, an annual event showcasing local artists and designers for charity, is raising money for the Gaza relief effort on its return to Abu Dhabi.
Ataya means giving in Arabic. The event has supported various charitable initiatives since its inception in 2012, with the humanitarian crisis in Gaza placed front and centre this year. Part of the proceeds from ticket sales will go to the Tarahum for Gaza campaign – launched in the UAE last year to support health and relief programmes in affected areas.
Emirati singer Hussain Al Jassmi, the Ataya exhibition ambassador, says: “I have led a charmed life and I believe passionately that when you have the opportunity to give back to people who have been less fortunate, you should make full use of it.”
It is not the first time that the annual event has operated in partial support of the Palestinian people. Non-profit group Inaash, which provides financial support to Palestinian families living in camps in Lebanon, participated in 2021.
By training women to embroider goods using traditional Palestinian techniques, the initiative passes customs down to the next generation while also giving them financial support.
Inaash helped more than 2,000 women in 2021, with 400 across five camps then working to embellish a wide range of products such as shawls, jackets, abayas, clutch bags, homeware and accessories.
Now in its 13th year, the annual Abu Dhabi event is held under the patronage of Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed and was founded by Emirates Red Crescent. Pop-up shops display and sell items of fashion, jewellery, home accessories and furniture.
Al Jassmi adds: “I am passionate about promoting the arts and creativity, and Ataya is a fantastic platform for artists, designers and artisans to reach out to a wider customer base.
“The range and scope of work on display is truly inspiring. You can meet the creators in person and buy their work directly. Also, it is good to remember that just by buying a ticket and visiting the exhibition, one can raise money for this year’s cause as well.”
The Ataya exhibition takes place at Adnec Marina Hall in Abu Dhabi until Saturday and is open daily from 3pm to 10pm