Simply Abu Dhabi XI

2 6 3 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I A bu Dhabi has steadfastly carved out a respected global position as a supportive hub of international and regional art. There is no question that culture and heritage have always been core components in the UAE’s national identity, and amidst the spectacular growth and phenomenal forward thinking the country has shown, there is also a passionate understanding of preservation and the importance of recognising and respecting traditional culture. Historically, artistic expression in the region was dominated by poetry and the spoken word, but the evolution of art is embracing creativity in its many forms and mediums. The government has been instrumental in this growth and the importance of art is included in AbuDhabi’s planned cultural renaissance through the ‘Abu Dhabi 2030’ programme – the comprehensive urban planning initiative that will establish the emirate as a regional centre for culture with a global capital city as its hub. At the helm of such noble aspirations is the Tourism and Development Company (TDIC), which is helping to transform Saadiyat Island in Abu Dhabi into an 'island of art'. As is widely known around the world, the island will play host to a Guggenheim and a Louvre museum, as well as the Sheikh Zayed National Museum. This will be allied with an array of other artistic activities such as the commercial Abu Dhabi Art Fair and numerous new schemes to encourage artists. This dedication to developing awareness and understanding of art and culture will ensure that the UAE increases it’s standing as a renowned centre of global art and culture. Not only do the citizen’s of the The Allure of Art Avenue at Etihad Towers - Samar Arts - Unveiling of Arab Mona Lisa - Sheikh Zayed & Dr. Al Shamsi Etihad Towers