Dubai: As part of the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025), held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, participated in a high-level panel discussion alongside Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State.
According to Emirates News Agency, the session titled ‘The Spirit of Exchange: The UAE’s Unique View on Cultural Diplomacy’ was moderated by Mina Al Oraibi, Editor in Chief of The National. The panel explored cultural identity, diplomacy, and the evolving role of museums, highlighting the UAE’s model of openness, collaboration, and people-centered cultural development. Sheikha Latifa and Al Kaabi underscored the UAE’s commitment to cultural exchange and community engagement, and to shaping a future in which culture deepens connection and understanding.
Al Oraibi initiated the panel discussion by questioning whether the UAE’s cultural landscape, spread across its seven emirates, is shaped by competition or complementarity, and how cultural diplomacy influences collaboration within the nation. H.H. Sheikha Latifa emphasized the UAE’s unity, noting that the country’s political and cultural union reflects its enduring identity. She explained that the UAE’s strength lies in mutual uplift, with each emirate’s achievements benefiting the others.
Al Kaabi echoed these sentiments, highlighting the enthusiasm for cultural developments across the nation and the impactful role of creators in this process. She noted that creators travel and explore within the UAE, benefiting from the ecosystem that supports their growth. The panel further delved into the UAE’s cultural diplomacy, with Sheikha Latifa emphasizing the country’s unique approach to diversity and openness.
The session also addressed the agility of Dubai’s government in strengthening the emirate’s cultural ecosystem. H.H. Sheikha Latifa noted that the cultural strategy was collaboratively developed, ensuring clarity and mutual trust among decision-makers. She highlighted the importance of a bottom-up approach, where strategies are shaped by the community’s voice.
Noura Al Kaabi affirmed her alignment with these points, noting the UAE’s collaborative model within its federal system. She emphasized that everything begins with people and that leadership must remain connected to individuals to maintain the relevance and impact of cultural and creative sectors.
The discussion also touched on the role of museums, with H.H. Sheikha Latifa highlighting the balance between global culture and local identity. She expressed the need for museums to reflect cultural authenticity and the responsibility of cultural institutions to celebrate individuality. Al Kaabi added that the Louvre Abu Dhabi reflects the region’s shared heritage and the importance of preserving universality.
The panel concluded with reflections on cultural diplomacy in Dubai, emphasizing the importance of public-private collaboration. H.H. Sheikha Latifa highlighted the role of the private sector in Dubai’s cultural projects, emphasizing the collaborative spirit that drives the emirate’s growth. Al Kaabi concluded by urging cultural leaders to embrace openness and respect others’ journeys in the realm of cultural diplomacy. H.H. Sheikha Latifa echoed these sentiments, expressing hope that visitors would leave Dubai with a lasting impression of its culture and people.