Following is report by Kuwait News Agency (KUNA) as part of the Federation of Arab News Agencies (FANA) Culture file.

part of the Federation of Arab News Agencies (FANA) Culture file. CUL-KUWAIT-DIWANIYA Kuwaiti Diwaniyas gain global recognition as UNESCO cultural heritage By Shahad Kamal KUWAIT, June 13 (KUNA) -- Kuwait's diwaniyas, a longstanding social and cultural institution, have been recognized internationally following the inscription on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2025. The listing of diwaniyas in UN's intangible cultural heritage list highlights their role in preserving dialogue, social cohesion, and national identity. Traditionally, the diwaniya serves as a gathering place within Kuwaiti society where people meet to discuss social, cultural, and public affairs. Over the years, it has evolved into a platform for intellectual, cultural, political, and economic discussions while helping preserve values such as hospitality, tolerance, and community engagement. Assistant Secretary-General for Antiquities and Museums at the National Council for Culture, Arts and Letters, Mohammad bin Redha told KUNA that the UNESCO inscription represents a national and cultural achievement reflecting Kuwait's commitment to safeguarding its living heritage and cultural identity. He said the recognition confirms the diwaniya's importance as a cultural and social practice that promotes dialogue, tolerance, and the exchange of knowledge and values across generations. Bin Redha noted that the listing was achieved through efforts led by the council in coordination with relevant authorities and in accordance with UNESCO standards for protecting intangible cultural heritage. He added that the recognition will support initiatives aimed at strengthening the diwaniya's cultural, educational, and media role through academic research, youth programs, and public events, while enhancing Kuwait's cultural presence internationally. President of Kuwait Heritage Society, Fahad Al-Abduljalil said the diwaniya has been closely associated with Kuwait's history and development, becoming an integral part of the country's cultural heritage and national identity. He highlighted the role of diwaniyas in supporting educational and cultural initiatives, noting that the establishment of Al-Mubarakiya School, the first formal school in Kuwait, in 1911, originated from the diwaniya of Yusuf bin Isa Al-Qina'i. He also pointed out that the diwaniya of the Shuaib family on Failaka Island hosted the island's first formal school, Al-Salahiya Al-Amiriya School, in 1937. Professor of Modern and Contemporary History Ayed Ateeq Al-Juraid told Kuna that many of Kuwait's reform, educational, and cultural projects originated in diwaniyas, including initiatives related to education, civic participation, and cultural development. He cited examples such as the Shura Council, whose idea was proposed in the diwaniya of Nasser Al-Bader in 1921, and the idea of founding the first Kuwaiti literary club, which emerged in the diwaniya of Sheikh Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah. The club was established in 1924 and is considered the first civil society institution in Kuwait's history. In addition to their cultural role, diwaniyas have historically contributed to community support during times of hardship and have served as a channel for communication between citizens and leadership. The diwaniya became a well-established civic institution and an important source of social support during times of crisis. Historical records indicate that it played a significant role in mitigating the effects of economic hardships in Kuwait. One notable example occurred in 1868, when diwaniyas opened their storage facilities to assist people affected by famine. Over the decades, the diwaniya also reflected the close relationship between Kuwait's rulers and citizens. Through the longstanding practice of rulers visiting diwaniyas, it served as a direct channel of communication between the government and the public, providing a forum for discussing community concerns, public issues, and potential solutions. The institution has also evolved in recent decades with the emergence of women's diwaniyas, which have expanded opportunities for social engagement, cultural exchange, and community initiatives. Addressing women's participation in diwaniyas, professor and writer Souad Al-Mejel told KUNA that any discussion of women's diwaniyas must begin with the historical role of Kuwaiti women, which directly gave rise to the tradition. Al-Mejel said Kuwaiti women were active contributors to social and economic life, particularly during the era of pearl diving and seafaring, when they assumed significant family responsibilities. She noted that their efforts later led to the establishment of formal girls' schools in 1937 and culminated in their political participation following the granting of political rights in 2005. She highlighted the emergence of pioneering women who entered fields traditionally dominated by men, including the diwaniya sphere. Among the most prominent examples, she said, were the diwaniya of Lulwa Al-Qatami, which became a platform for discussing women's affairs and rights, and that of Dr. Souad Al-Sabah, which evolved into a cultural and intellectual forum. Drawing on her personal experience, Al-Mejel said she regularly participates in a number of diwaniyas that bring together politicians, intellectuals, and citizens from diverse backgrounds and viewpoints.