Dubai: Under the strategic guidance of H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), the Authority continues to shape the foundations of a globally connected creative economy. Since 2020, its pioneering partnership with LinkedIn has stood as a testament to this commitment, equipping creative professionals with the skills, visibility, and networks needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive global market.
According to Emirates News Agency, in just five years, the partnership has enabled creatives to complete 53,500 training courses, watch 265,000 educational videos, and log over 16,800 hours of learning. H.H. Sheikha Latifa emphasized that the partnership with LinkedIn is instrumental in connecting talent with knowledge and opportunities, thus sparking transformations that extend beyond the creative economy.
The partnership emerged during the COVID-19 lockdown, providing the creative community in Dubai with the necessary support to overcome unprecedented disruptions. Dubai Culture and LinkedIn launched an initiative to help creatives sharpen their talents and gain practical skills, training, and business knowledge. This initiative has since evolved into a crucial support system, fostering resilience among talent and preparing them for significant contributions in a rapidly evolving world.
Ali Matar, Head of LinkedIn MENA and emerging markets, noted the importance of upskilling in the current workforce landscape. He expressed pride in the collaboration with Dubai Culture, which has positioned the city as a hub for creative talent, and looked forward to further expanding the partnership to enhance the cultural landscape for future generations.
The partnership has driven significant growth in the UAE's creative talent ecosystem, with a 175% increase in UAE-based creative professionals on LinkedIn between 2022 and 2025. This growth outpaces the global rate of 104% during the same period. With 53,500 course registrations by the end of 2024, including learning paths on skills like artificial intelligence, Dubai Culture and LinkedIn are nurturing a future-ready creative community.
Following the program's success, H.H. Sheikha Latifa directed an extension and expansion of the collaboration during a meeting attended by key figures from both organizations, including Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, and Ali Matar from LinkedIn. The focus will be on providing greater access to opportunities and direct connections to the job market, reinforcing Dubai's status as a global art and culture center and a thriving hub for talent.