On Wednesday, the Arab region's iconic date palm trees were officially recognized by UNESCO's list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
The announcement came during the annual meeting of the Intangible Heritage Committee held in Bogotá, Colombia.
"The date palm, knowledge, skills, traditions and practices have played a pivotal role in strengthening the connection between people and the land in the Arab region, helping them face the challenges of the harsh desert environment," the United Nations agency said in a statement on the matter.
The move marks a fitting tribute to trees that ensured the livelihood of entire populations in some of the world's hottest areas.
Additions to UNESCO's list this year included Armenian letter art, Ethiopian epiphany, Byzantine chant, and Alpinism among several others.
This listing comes after date palms were nominated for consideration by 14 countries: Bahrain, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Mauritania, Morocco, Oman, Palestinian Territories, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, Tunisia, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen.
"Date palms gather in oases of different densities within desert areas indicating the presence of water levels suitable for irrigation. As a result, this aided mankind in settling down despite harsh conditions," the nations wrote in their nomination statement.
The palm is a symbol of hospitality and prosperity in countries across the Arab world. The tree's roots are known to penetrate deep into the soil, allowing it to grow in difficult climates. It's considered the most ancient cultivated tree according to the UN's Food and Agriculture Organization.
The first date palm trees have existed since 4,000 BC and are said to have originated near Ur in southern Iraq, the ancient region of Mesopotamia.
Palm trees are the symbol of our region
And their recognition was essential
Long live date palms ????
