Dubai prince launches initiative to write world's first autobiography of a city through social media

H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, today launched a year-long initiative to create an autobiography of Dubai through social media. Open for all of the Emirate's residents and visitors, the initiative encourages people to capture the real life dynamics of Dubai and share the most compelling moments they experience. People are invited to contribute by using the hashtag #MyDubai, and will be able to introduce the unique values and culture of the Emirate to the world through social media, which has become one of the most important channels through which the world observes Dubai. Commenting on the launch of the project, Sheikh Hamdan said the #MyDubai initiative will tell the real and human stories of the city through photographs and videos. Using his twitter account, Sheikh Hamdan said that the main goal of the project was to show the world the beautiful lives, unique identity and true culture of the city that lie beneath the urban and technological advancements. The images will showcase the life of the city's residents and visitors, their experiences and adventures, and highlight the best of their social lives, while informing the world about the U.A.E.'s culture and values. Sheikh Hamdan invited all of the Emirate's residents and visitors to participate in the #MyDubai campaign, by sharing images and videos on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook with the hashtag. A number of activities and events related to the hashtag will be launched throughout the year. Sheikh Hamdan initiated the programme by sharing his personal photo on his Instagram account. Sheikh Hamdan stated that the passion for the Emirate that exists amongst both U.A.E. nationals and the communities of more than 200 nationalities living in Dubai is an often untold part of Dubai's success, saying, "Our achievements are driven by a positive energy and spirit that is felt by everyone who lives in our Emirate, inspiring creativity and harmony and uniting more than 200 nationalities." Adding to these comments, Sheikh Hamdan said, "In the fabric of Dubai there are more than 2.1 million stories - the individual lives and experiences of all those who call Dubai home. A city's story is created by its people and as we look towards a prosperous future, it's time to join together and show the world how 2.1 million people can create one remarkable story. Together we will create the world's first autobiography of a city." Sheikh Hamdan commented that #MyDubai will provide the opportunity for each resident to become an ambassador for the city, sharing the exciting, diverse and remarkable lives they lead. It is intended that photographs and video submitted on social media channels will document the experience of living in Dubai. A specialised team will work on the project, curating people's contributions for use across different media platforms, for example at international exhibitions and to inspire art installations, films and books. A number of initiatives and programmes will be launched throughout the year of #MyDubai, giving further opportunities to take part.