Dubai To Host The First World Cities Culture Summit In MENA Focused On Youth And Cultural Innovation

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has announced the World Cities Culture Summit 2024. Scheduled from 30th October to 1st November, it will be held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This event aims to reinforce Dubai's position on the global cultural stage.

The summit's theme, "Tomorrow’s Culture: How Will the Next Generation Shape our World?", highlights efforts by global cities to engage youth in reshaping urban life. Discussions will focus on supporting creative economies, investing in cultural industries, and nurturing talent for future contributions.

Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communication at Dubai Culture, emphasised the summit's focus on youth. She stated that this year's sessions aim to encourage cities to develop new cultural projects supporting the creative economy. Dubai aspires to become a global hub by 2026.

Hala Badri, Director-General of Dubai Culture, described the summit as an inspiring platform for cultural leaders. It facilitates expertise exchange and strategic partnerships that support culture and talent in shaping the future. "Dubai's hosting of the forum reflects its leadership," she said.

The summit will feature several international speakers participating in Ideas for Tomorrow sessions. These sessions will present visions for the future of culture. The third round of the Leadership Exchange Programme, supported by Bloomberg Philanthropies, will also launch during this event.

Justine Simons OBE, Deputy Mayor for Culture and Creative Industries in London, expressed excitement about attending the summit in Dubai. "As one of the world’s fastest-growing cities, Dubai is home to over 200 nationalities," she noted.

Cultural Strategies and Future Challenges

The summit's agenda includes discussions on youth roles in global cultural policies and funding models for cultural projects. Other topics include artificial intelligence in policymaking and creative districts' contributions to urban innovation.

Dubai Culture will host a public session exploring how cities can thrive in a digital world. This session aims to address how cities can adapt to rapid changes while fostering cultural growth.

Showcasing Local Talent

The event will highlight unique creative products by Emirati artists and UAE-based talent. This initiative supports local cultural industries while promoting Dubai as a thriving hub for creativity.

Organised across various landmarks in Dubai, city delegations will experience its rich cultural offerings firsthand. This approach supports cultural tourism within the emirate while showcasing its vibrant arts scene.

World Cities Culture Forum

The World Cities Culture Summit is a flagship event of the World Cities Culture Forum. It serves as a leading network for cultural policymaking with over 45 member cities globally where culture drives social and economic development.

This solutions-focused event encourages collaboration among city leaders worldwide. Over half of previous attendees have implemented or improved a cultural policy after attending this influential gathering.

With inputs from WAM