The Patrons: How Philanthropy Shapes the Future of Arts in the UAE

The question of how to nurture creative talent and strengthen communities through arts patronage has become increasingly vital in the cultural life of the UAE. On Monday, 2 November, Abu Dhabi Festival presents an opportunity to witness this conversation unfold at the highest level, as Riwaq Al Fikr, the intellectual salon of the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, brings together two visionary figures whose influence on the nation’s cultural landscape cannot be overstated.

H.E. Badr Jafar, serving as UAE Special Envoy for Business and Philanthropy and Chief Executive of Crescent Enterprises, and H.E. Sheikh Sultan Sooud Al-Qassemi, Founder of Barjeel Art Foundation, will explore the profound motivations that drive generous support of the arts. Their dialogue, moderated by Anne-Laure Malauzat, Managing Partner of Bain UAE and Head of the EMEA Social Impact practice, promises to illuminate how strategic patronage can sustain the UAE’s cultural ecosystem for generations to come.

The conversation forms part of Abu Dhabi Festival’s broader commitment to fostering intellectual discourse around the arts. Rather than presenting predetermined conclusions, this gathering invites guests to witness thinking of genuine substance: an exploration of what motivates those with the means and vision to support creative expression, and how such support ripples outward to strengthen the very foundations of cultural life.

The session takes place at Emirates Foundation, Abu Dhabi, at 6:00 PM. Those drawn to understanding the mechanisms through which philanthropy shapes cultural futures in the region are invited to join.