Dubai Culture Shines as 16th UNESCO Creative Cities Network Member

Photo:Government of Dubai Media Office

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) successfully wrapped up its participation in the 16th UNESCO Creative Cities Network Annual Conference held in Braga, Portugal. The conference, spanning five days, brought together leaders and representatives from 354 cities worldwide to discuss and collaborate on integrating creativity into urban development strategies.

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Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, played a significant role during the conference. He participated in a panel discussion focusing on the crucial role of culture and arts education in empowering future generations. Dr. Kharbash highlighted the symbiotic relationship between culture and education, emphasizing how creative cities enrich the knowledge base of their residents and inspire them to develop diverse skills.

One of the key initiatives showcased by Dr. Kharbash was Dubai Culture's 'School of Life' project, launched in 2022. This innovative initiative aims to build and enhance life, cultural, and creative skills among the public. It also involves transforming public libraries into dynamic, creative spaces that serve as continuous learning platforms. These efforts underscore Dubai Culture's commitment to fostering an innovative educational ecosystem that promotes positive societal development.

Khulood Khoory, Director of the Projects and Events Department at Dubai Culture, also made significant contributions at the conference. She participated in the Design Creative Cities sub-network meetings, where she shared best practices from Dubai. Khoory highlighted Dubai's 'Youth Design Collective' project, an initiative by the Dubai Design Lab aimed at empowering youth to actively shape the future. This project equips young people with essential skills and tools to foster creative thinking and develop innovative solutions to potential challenges.

Dubai was designated as the first 'Creative City of Design' in the Middle East by UNESCO in 2017. This designation has enabled Dubai to actively engage in policy-making discussions within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, contributing to its global reputation as a hub for creativity and sustainable development. The city's participation in the annual conference reaffirms its commitment to showcasing its achievements and initiatives in design and creativity on an international platform.

Through its membership in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, Dubai continues to strengthen its position as an attractive destination for creative talent and a leader in urban development. The city's efforts underscore its dedication to fostering creativity, cultural innovation, and sustainable growth, aligning with its vision to become one of the world's foremost creative cities.