Parents keep heritage alive by teaching kids Emirati art of preserving fish

Saeed Al Dhuhoori, an Emirati from Sharjah, stood among the rows of salted fish at the 12th edition of the Al Maleh and Fishing Festival in Sharjah’s Dibba Al Hisn, pointing out the displays to his sons, nephews and nieces on Thursday evening.

- SM Ayaz Zakir

The children followed him curiously, wrinkling their noses at the salty aroma. For Saeed, bringing them here was more than just a family outing, it was an opportunity to pass on a story of survival.

"I want them to see this with their own eyes," Saeed said, pointing towards baskets filled with Al Maleh.

"This fish kept our ancestors alive. Before there were fridges, this is how they made sure food lasted. It is part of who we are."