TV cartoon Hamdoon explores UAE identity

The TV cartoon character Hamdoon, aimed at boosting the nation's sense of identity, is officially unveiled today.

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A TV cartoon character aimed at boosting the nation's sense of identity was officially unveiled today. Hamdoon, a six-year-old Emirati boy who wears a khadoura that is slightly too big and a plain ghutra piled on top of his lollipop head, will make his TV debut next year in a 15 part series. Although it is aimed at children, Abdulla al Sharhan the creator, said that the message behind the programme is suitable for all ages "He emphasises the values of everything about the UAE, it is a show for all the family," he said. The Hamdoon Cartoon Series follows the life of the child who grew up abroad due to his father's job and who has since returned to the country to live with his grandparents. The 15 part series, which will be screened in October next year features Hamdoon discovering his home country. Through his character's relationships with his uncle, aunt and grandparents, Sharhan hopes to reinforce the importance of respect for the older generations as well as instilling a sense of national identity. The project has been supported by the Khalifa Fund to Support and Develop Small Enterprises and the TV series is sponsored by Abu Dhabi Authority for Culture and Heritage. [e-mail]