Abu Dhabi: In a significant move to bolster Arab intellectual and cultural exchanges, the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
According to Emirates News Agency, the MoU was signed on May 2 by Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, the Founder of ADMAF and the Abu Dhabi Festival, and Ibrahim Al Hashimi, the Executive Director of the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation. The signing took place at ADMAF's booth, part of its Riwaq Al Adab Wal Kitab initiative, under the theme 'Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais: The Unforgettable,' celebrating the late poet's centenary as designated by UNESCO for 2025.
Huda Al Khamis-Kanoo remarked that the MoU reinforces an existing partnership founded on a shared vision and purpose. She emphasized the pioneering roles both institutions play in enriching the Arab cultural landscape, advancing intellectual thought, and empowering knowledge. She highlighted the importance of commemorating Sultan Al Owais's legacy, noting his contributions to culture and identity in the United Arab Emirates.
Ibrahim Al Hashimi expressed that the agreement aims to emphasize the complementary roles of cultural institutions. The Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation is committed to strengthening cooperation to serve Arab culture and thought. He noted that the foundation has signed various MoUs regionally, leading to joint events and enhancing its presence in cultural communities.
The agreement aligns with ADMAF's Riwaq Al Adab Wal Kitab initiative, reflecting the shared mission to support Emirati and regional literary talent through joint programmes. It underscores the importance of preserving Arab language, cultural heritage, and intellectual thought, honoring the legacy of Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais.