Soon to open in November 2017, the Louvre Abu Dhabi will be the first universal museum in the Arab world, displaying an expansive array of human culture. Sultan Al Qassemi writes about the positive cultural, social and political influences that the institution can exert upon the arts and cultural footprint of the Arab world. Read more »
UAE
21st Century Diplomacy
In this article for Emirates Diplomatic Academy, Sultan Al Qassemi describes the contribution that Emirati art has made to the UAE’s cultural diplomacy and soft power. Read more »
UAE’s soft power brings nations together
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 »
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 »