Hoor Al Qasimi Named 2025–2026 ALECSO Ambassador Extraordinary For Arab Culture
Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi has been named the 2025–2026 Ambassador Extraordinary for Arab Culture by ALECSO. This honour recognises her significant impact on contemporary art and cultural exchange both regionally and globally. The announcement took place on 10th November 2025 at Africa Hall, Al Manakh, Sharjah, attended by government officials and cultural leaders.
Through her leadership at the Sharjah Art Foundation, Sheikha Hoor has established platforms that elevate Arab voices and preserve cultural heritage. Her initiatives promote dialogue among diverse communities worldwide. She expressed her gratitude, stating, "I am deeply honoured to be appointed ALECSO Ambassador Extraordinary for Arab Culture. This recognition is a testament to the collective efforts of many individuals and institutions dedicated to nurturing, promoting and preserving our shared cultural heritage."
The ALECSO Ambassadors for Arab Culture Programme celebrates notable Arab figures whose contributions align with the organisation's goals. These ambassadors advocate for ALECSO’s mission on various platforms, promoting creativity, peace, and coexistence. Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar, Director-General of ALECSO, remarked on the UAE’s role in fostering Arab cultural cooperation and universal values of peace and dialogue.
Dr. Mohamed Ould Amar stated, "We look forward to working closely with Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi to advance ALECSO’s cultural programmes and promote culture as a driver of sustainable development and shared values across the Arab world." This appointment highlights the UAE's pioneering efforts in promoting cultural cooperation.
Since 2003, Sheikha Hoor has directed the Sharjah Biennial, curating exhibitions that highlight narratives from the Arab world and Global South. Notable exhibitions include Sharjah Biennial 15 (2023) and Hassan Sharif: I Am The Single Work Artist (2017–2018). Her work fosters cross-cultural dialogue through her roles at The Africa Institute and the International Biennial Association.
In recognition of her contributions to the arts, Sheikha Hoor was named an Officier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres by France's Ministry of Culture in 2023. Her efforts continue to bridge cultures through art and dialogue.
This appointment as Ambassador Extraordinary underscores her dedication to advancing art and culture across borders. Her leadership continues to inspire collaboration among diverse communities worldwide.
With inputs from WAM
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