Abu Dhabi: The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has unveiled the agenda for the seventh edition of Culture Summit Abu Dhabi, scheduled to take place from April 27th to 29th, 2025, at Manarat Al Saadiyat. This global forum will operate under the theme 'Culture for Humanity and Beyond,' gathering eminent thought leaders, policymakers, artists, and innovators to delve into the interplay between culture, technology, and global governance.
According to Emirates News Agency, the summit will facilitate crucial conversations aimed at rethinking human emancipation and humanity through a series of keynote speeches, creative dialogues, panel discussions, artistic talks, and specialized workshops. Attendees will strive to find common ground for a sustainable future, offering new insights into reimagining tomorrow as traditional modes of thinking evolve.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, expressed pride in hosting the summit, emphasizing the importance of collaboration with local and international partners. He highlighted the summit's role in exploring culture's potential to drive positive change amidst technological advancements. Rita Aoun, Executive Director of the Culture Sector at DCT Abu Dhabi, underscored the summit's global significance in shaping cultural policy and creative industries, with this edition focusing on using culture to foster community progress and mutual understanding.
The summit will feature keynote speakers such as Mo Gawdat, Susan Buck-Morss, Professor Iyad Rahwan, Sir William Sargent, Glenn Lowry, and Koyo Kouoh. Creative conversations will include discussions with Thomas Heatherwick, Colleen Atwood, Refik Anadol, Ralph Nauta, and Ayoung Kim, among others. The increasing influence of artificial intelligence on creativity will be a focal point, with sessions addressing topics like 'AI Revolution: Redefining Creativity in the Age of Machines' and 'The Double-Edged Sword of AI in Cinema.'
The opening day will host a panel titled 'Bridging the Cultural Gap: The Role of Culture in Shaping Global Governance,' featuring former leaders Jenny Shipley, Iveta Radicov¡, and Cassam Uteem. The summit will also present sessions on jazz, humanity, creative expression, and heritage rehabilitation, with contributions from figures such as Herbie Hancock, John Ridding, Mina Al-Oraibi, Paolo Petrocelli, Lama Hourani, and others.
Global partners for the summit include UNESCO, Economist Impact, the Design Museum, Google, and the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum and Foundation. Additional collaborators encompass Image Nation Abu Dhabi, IFACCA, Cultural Foundation, The National, and several other cultural and educational entities.