Dubai: H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, recently engaged in discussions with Gagane Umerova, head of the Department of Creative Economy and Tourism at the Administration of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan. This meeting took place during the 27th General Conference of the International Council of Museums (ICOM Dubai 2025), an event held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, and hosted for the first time in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.
According to Emirates News Agency, the meeting was attended by notable figures including Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of State; Hala Badri, Director-General of Dubai Culture; and Muna Faisal Al Gurg, CEO of Museums and Heritage at Dubai Culture. The discussions centered on enhancing cooperation in the cultural and creative industries, recognized as pivotal for economic growth, innovation, and cultural expression. Both nations expressed their commitment to strengthening the creative economy, aiming to broaden opportunities for creative talent and cultural entrepreneurs.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa emphasized the historical cultural ties between the UAE and Uzbekistan, tracing back to the Silk Road, which fostered the exchange of people, ideas, and artistic traditions. She highlighted that this legacy continues to inspire contemporary collaborations focused on building ecosystems of creativity, openness, and cultural understanding.
The meeting also underscored the importance of nurturing young talent and creating environments that support the growth of creatives. H.H. Sheikha Latifa stressed the role of both nations in fostering new generations of artists and cultural practitioners, emphasizing the need to elevate creative voices on both regional and global stages.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa concluded by affirming that investing in the creative economy is crucial not only for economic reasons but also for cultural preservation, innovation, and fostering a future where culture and creativity bridge societies.