The true wealth of this nine-million strong nation is not in its massive oil reserves or its giant sovereign wealth fund. The true wealth of the UAE is the people, both citizens and foreigners, who have come together to build a nation and turn it into an oasis of tolerance, respect and opportunity for all. Read more »
UAE
Lateefa bint Maktoum: No mere observer of change
Few individuals have had such a direct impact on the arts movement in the UAE as Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum. Lateefa transcends the world of art through charity, education and the contemporary identity of the United Arab Emirates. She represents both Emirati women and the country at large through her work, helping forge a 21st century character for the young nation though her distinct imagery. Her efforts have directly contributed into turning the UAE’s emergent art movement into a full-fledged industry. Read more »
Sharjah Art Museum: The Bellwether of Gulf Art Museums
Since its inception the Sharjah Art Museum has been the diamond in the necklace of pearls that are the emirate’s museums. It has played a role in educating the public, documenting the artistic past and present, and has helped to cement Sharjah’s position as the capital of culture for the Arab world and beyond. Read more »
Abdul Qader Al Rais: Palestinian Refugees
In the aftermath of the 1967 Israeli occupation of Palestine’s West Bank and Gaza, Emarati artist Abdel Qader Al Rais pays homage to the resilience of those who were forced to leave their homes in his piece, “Palestinian Refugees.” In this AJ+ Arabic story, Sultan takes a closer look. Read more »
A conversation with Sultan Al-Qassemi and Joi Ito
Sultan Al-Qassemi and Joi Ito discuss the Middle East, the UAE, art, culture, emergent democracy and other timely matters. Read more »
United Arab Emigrants
Through this essay I seek to highlight some of the many Arab immigrants that have come to what is now the UAE during the second half of the 20th century. These immigrants have been naturalised and yet our national identity has not disappeared or eroded as some may fear. In fact, in addition to their skills and talents that were essential during the formation of the federation, UAE heritage and culture was protected and preserved. Read more »