Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi reflects on his journey in curating art from the 22 nations where Arabic is the official language, focusing on interconnected figures within the diaspora. Read more »
Articles
UAE literary heritage shows how much Arabic fiction can offer young people
Stories serve as a vital foundation for shaping and reinforcing national identity, and the UAE is no exception. Like many nations, it possesses a rich repertoire of legends and folklore, yet these narratives risk fading with each generation as the custodians of oral tradition pass on. Preserving and revitalising this heritage while also pushing the envelope of storytelling is an imperative of the present era – one that Emirati writers have embraced through literature. By capturing these tales in written form, they not only protect the nation’s intangible heritage but also fortify a collective sense of belonging across generations. Read more »
Syria after Assad can use its rich history to build a bright future
The overthrow of the Baathist government is poised to have significant repercussions, not only within the country but also across the broader region. Whether these consequences will be positive or negative will depend on the choices made by Syria’s interim and long-term leadership. Read more »
A day to look back at the UAE’s remarkable cultural development – and forward to what lies ahead
Almost 55 years after its first participation in the 1970 Expo Osaka, Abu Dhabi will be back in Japan at Expo 2025 Osaka but under the flag of the United Arab Emirates. Today, looking back at the progress of the Emirates over the past half-century, I am reminded of the theme of the 1970 Expo – Harmony and Progress for Mankind. It is as though this promise extended beyond that one event in which Sheikh Zayed offered a vision of progress and harmony for the people of the UAE. Read more »
Al Sharekh: An Arab pioneer who came into our homes without us ever meeting him
Mohammed Al Sharekh, a visionary entrepreneur and cultural pioneer from Kuwait, played a pivotal role in advancing Arabic language and technology. His efforts in preserving and promoting the Arabic language and culture earned him widespread acclaim, including the King Faisal International Prize. From founding Sakhr Computers, the first Arabic-enabled software company, to championing Arabic culture and development through his work in economic institutions and art collection, Al Sharekh’s legacy continues to inspire. Read more »
The UAE-Saudi relationship isn’t about competition
Over the past few months, much has been said about the relationship between the UAE and Saudi Arabia, some of it strikingly shallow and misinformed. Is there competition and differences of opinion and approach on some issues between the two Gulf powers? There certainly is. Competition, in fact, is one of the secret recipes of the UAE’s very own success. Read more »