Abu Dhabi Hosts Culture Summit: A Deep Dive Into Time, Memory, And Tech

The Culture Summit Abu Dhabi commenced today in the UAE's capital, showcasing an impressive array of keynote speeches, creative discussions, panel talks, and cultural performances. This year marks the sixth edition of the event, attracting participants from 90 countries around the globe, united under the theme 'A Matter of Time'. The Summit's opening day delved into the significance of culture in forging collective memories and presented alternatives to the traditional linear perception of time.

Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), in his opening remarks, highlighted the essence of this year's theme, 'A Matter of Time'. He emphasized that the Culture Summit is a platform for meaningful dialogue and finding practical solutions for global communities through culture. Al Mubarak stressed the importance of understanding, respecting, and preserving diverse cultures to achieve global harmony.

Al Mubarak proudly noted the Summit's role in bringing together a diverse group of thinkers, artists, changemakers, and leaders. He introduced Adonis, a world-renowned poet and philosopher, who delivered the first keynote speech. Adonis explored the intricate relationship between humans and time, critiquing the modern era's overreliance on technology which, instead of liberating humanity, has become a form of enslavement.

The event also featured a creative conversation between Emirati celebrity singer Hussain Al Jassmi and Egyptian Talk Show host Mona Al Shazly. They discussed the impact of time on an artist's journey and the UAE's supportive environment for creative talents. Al Jassmi shared his personal experiences of support from the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and highlighted the UAE as a model of coexistence.

Nobel Prize Literature laureate Wole Soyinka engaged in a dialogue with Manthia Diawara about African culture, identity issues, and the continent's ideological differences stemming from slavery and art theft. Another session titled ‘First people's knowledge on living in the everywhen’ offered insights into non-linear conceptions of time and space from First People’s communities.

The Culture Summit Abu Dhabi is set to continue until 5th March. It is organized by DCT Abu Dhabi in partnership with leading global organizations such as UNESCO, Economist Impact, Design Museum, Google, Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation, and the Recording Academy. The event boasts additional partnerships with entities like Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, Arab World Institute, Berklee Abu Dhabi, Club de Madrid, Cultural Foundation, IFACCA, Image Nation Abu Dhabi, Louvre Abu Dhabi, NYUAD and World Cities Culture Forum.

With inputs from WAM