In line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to promote UAE’s rich heritage, art and culture among the local youth, the Dubai Cultural Council (DCC), today, announced its plans to conduct a host of high profile events and workshops under the banner of ‘Dubai Culture and Art Forum’.

The forum, first of its kind, will focus strongly to enhance the level of awareness and interests among the local community in the field of culture, art, theatre, and music. Scheduled to be conducted over a period of 8 weeks (June 26 to August 31, 2007), DCC expects to attract a large number of youths to participate in the various interactive events and workshops that will help improve their knowledge and understanding of the various forms of art and culture.

According to HE Mohammad Al Murr, chairman of DCC, the Emirate of Dubai seeks to achieve excellence in areas of cultural and artistic development. He said: “Culture is a main component of any society, so developing culture is necessary for us to strike a balance with other accomplishments Dubai has been witnessing, particularly within the areas of infrastructure and technology.”

In accordance with this ambitious vision of Sheikh Mohammad, the Dubai Forum for Arts and Culture will be a major step to attract the younger generations, which is the backbone of the society, to show keenness to participate in various activities.

HE Mohammad Al Murr also stressed on the point that the events will be very rich and diverse in topics and includes many activities that will not only raise the interest of the UAE nationals but also will be a knowledgeable and a worthy experience for the residents in the UAE as well as visitors from around the world.



“With the active support of H.H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, DCC will facilitate the fulfillment of the vision and is determined to improve the cultural scenario in the emirates. Sheikh Mohammad’s support reflects his long cherished desire to enrich and broaden the cultural panorama of the country, specifically within Dubai,” he added.

Dr. Salah Al Qassim, Secretary General of DCC, said, “During the planning period for the forum we made sure to include a package of special activities that will satisfy all tastes, and which can go along with our efforts to the development of various dominion of artistic and literary expressions in Dubai.”

As the Emirate continues to grow commercially DCC works as a facilitator to enhance the flourishing of culture and arts among its residents. Ultimately, the council aims to promote Dubai as a cultural destination by preserving the local culture and hosting cultural performances of artists from different parts of the world. The council also aims to provide impetus to the cultural, literary, and other creative activities in the Emirate.

The event is being duly supported by Damas, DTCM, Dubai Studio City and Ministry of Social Affairs, with Sama Dubai being the media sponsors. Apart from this the DCC has also ensured support from a group of cultural organizations like Sultan Al Owais Cultural Foundation, Juma Al Majid Center for Culture and Heritage, Culture and Science Committee, and other leading institutions.