The first Hebrew institute in the United Arab Emirates will open its doors in January.
The opening of the Educational Hebrew Institute was made possible through the work of the United organization, which is responsible for global Jewish education under the Diaspora Affairs Ministry, and in partnership with Jewish philanthropic organizations.
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Diaspora Affairs Minister Omer Yankelevich heralded the news, saying, "After years without any ties to the Jewish community in the UAE, we have the privilege of building a bridge between it and the State of Israel."
Ross Kriel, the head of Dubai's Jewish community, said he was pleased the project was coming along.
"The Abraham Accords have finally allowed for the building of a close relationship between the Jewish community in the UAE and the State of Israel. We believe that Jewish education is vital for the future of our community, as it has been vital through history for Jewish communities around the world," he said.
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EHI Director Josh Samet told Dubai's Khaleej Times that the Abraham Accords signed by Israel and the UAE "have fueled curiosity for knowledge and education centered around the Hebrew language" among locals.
Beyond Jewish education, in-person classes taught by Israelis at the institute's locations in Dubai and Abu Dhabi will acquaint local businesspeople with Israeli-style communication and cuisine in "a fun and interactive way."
Reprinted with permission from JNS.org
