UAE’s Cultural Diplomacy Vision Emphasised By Sheikha Latifa And Noura Al Kaabi At ICOM Dubai 2025

The 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025) is being 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 panel discussion with Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State. The session explored cultural identity and diplomacy, focusing on the UAE's openness and collaborative cultural development.

The discussion, moderated by Mina Al Oraibi, Editor in Chief of The National, highlighted the UAE’s commitment to cultural exchange and community engagement. H.H. Sheikha Latifa emphasised that the UAE is a unified nation with intertwined roots, where success in one emirate benefits others. "I have always believed that the UAE’s strength lies in our unity," she stated.

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Noura Al Kaabi echoed these sentiments, noting the enthusiasm for cultural developments across the country. She highlighted that creators do not see borders within the UAE and benefit from a supportive ecosystem for their growth. This approach reflects a collaborative model embraced within the UAE's federal system.

H.H. Sheikha Latifa explained how diversity is integral to the UAE's identity. "While many countries today are multicultural, the UAE is defined by the way we live our diversity," she said. People arriving in Dubai find acceptance and belonging, reflecting a legacy of openness passed down through generations.

Al Kaabi added that cities built around ports naturally develop an openness to the world. This mindset has shaped the nation since its founding, fostering a culture of coexistence long before multiculturalism became a common term.

People-First Cultural Strategy

The agility of Dubai’s government plays a crucial role in enhancing its cultural ecosystem. H.H. Sheikha Latifa noted that strategies are shaped from the ground up by community insights while remaining flexible enough to adapt when needed. "Our vision may begin at the top, but our strategies are built from the ground up," she explained.

Noura Al Kaabi affirmed this approach aligns with how local authorities contribute to shaping a unified cultural vision for the UAE. Leadership remains connected to individuals to ensure work stays meaningful and relevant.

Museums and Cultural Identity

Discussing museums' future, H.H. Sheikha Latifa stressed balancing global culture with local identity pride. "Today’s youth carry a global culture, yet we also see renewed pride in local identity," she said. Museums should celebrate cultural individuality authentically.

Al Kaabi highlighted Louvre Abu Dhabi as an example of preserving universality while connecting meaningfully to its region: "A museum is not defined by housing the most expensive piece but by works that teach and resonate."

Public-Private Collaboration

Cultural diplomacy thrives through public-private collaboration in Dubai's broader ecosystem. H.H. Sheikha Latifa explained how involving private sectors ensures genuine ownership in decision-making processes: "When we open that door, they become powerful partners."

This collaboration empowers creativity from grassroots levels without dictating direction but enabling growth instead—removing barriers while providing support when needed.

A Call for Global Leadership

Al Oraibi asked what policy recommendation or call-to-action participants should take back home regarding cultural diplomacy after engaging with UAE’s approach during ICOM week-long eventful sessions held here at Dubai 2025 conference venue itself!

Noura Al Kaabi encouraged embracing journeys with openness while respecting others' values: "In culture...we move forward together when respecting one another’s journeys." H.H.Sheikha Latifa concluded by hoping guests leave remembering Dubai's people-culture spirit defining them forevermore!

With inputs from WAM