Art and Diplomacy in Dialogue: Abu Dhabi Convenes Leaders of Culture
When the brushstroke becomes the voice of a nation and culture transforms into a bridge connecting the Emirates with the wider world, we witness the profound power of artistic expression in the service of human understanding and national identity. In an era of accelerating change, the arts and culture remain the most enduring language through which nations forge genuine connections and strengthen their character.
The Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation, extends an invitation to an exceptional gathering under its distinguished Riwaq Al Fikr programme. The seminar, titled A Nation in Dialogue: Arts, Culture and the UAE’s Global Engagement, will convene an assembly of esteemed thought leaders and cultural diplomats to illuminate how artistic expression creates vital spaces for international understanding.
The distinguished panel will include His Excellency Dr. Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Cultural Adviser to the President of the UAE and Chancellor of the University of the Emirates; Her Excellency Huda Alkhamis Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation and Founder and Artistic Director of Abu Dhabi Festival; and Isobel Abulhoul, Executive Director and Trustee of the Emirates Foundation for Literature. The session will be moderated by Salem Brahimi, a filmmaker, screenwriter and cultural strategist.
Following the panel discussion, guests will experience the unveiling of a curated exhibition that celebrates the profound relationship between artistic creation and diplomatic dialogue, demonstrating how creative endeavour enriches and deepens the UAE’s engagement with the global community.
This gathering takes place on Tuesday, 20 October 2026, from 4:00 pm to 5:30 pm at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy campus in Abu Dhabi.
