Dubai Culture’s Japan Art & Culture Delegation Programme: Bridging Creative Currents
In June 2025, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) celebrated the conclusion of its innovative Japan Art & Culture Delegation Programme. This initiative, made possible with the support of the Sikka Platform, aims to amplify the global artistic footprint of Emirati and UAE-based talent. As cultural exchange becomes increasingly vital in a globalized world, this program offers a strategic framework for emerging artists to engage with influential art institutions in Japan.
Empowering Emirati Artists
The programme provided a unique opportunity for a diverse group of Emirati creatives to immerse themselves in Japan’s rich artistic landscape. With a focus on nurturing talent, the initiative brought together artists, designers, and curators eager to explore Japan’s avant-garde practices. Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, emphasized the transformative power of such initiatives. She stated, “This programme opens up new prospects for creatives, offering them opportunities to learn about diverse practices and benefit from academic expertise.”
By creating these opportunities, Dubai Culture reaffirms its commitment to supporting individuals on their creative journeys. Participants not only gain exposure to international trends but also refine their modes of expression, helping to embed their local heritage and identity within a global context.
Cultural Diplomacy and Global Connections
Cultural diplomacy plays a crucial role in how Dubai is positioning itself as a global hub for the arts. The UAE–Japan Creative Exchange serves as a bridge, connecting different cultures and fostering cooperation among universities, galleries, and art institutions worldwide. By promoting dialogue between Emirati and Japanese creatives, this programme reflects Dubai’s vision of a culturally rich environment that encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing.
Al Suwaidi highlighted the essential nature of these exchanges for enriching both local and global artistic dialogues. Such initiatives pave the way for Emirati artists to gain insights from their international peers while contributing their unique perspectives, thus enhancing the richness of collective cultural experiences.
A Diverse Group of Participants
The 10-day program featured a distinguished ensemble of Emirati creatives, showcasing the breadth of talent within the UAE. Notable participants included Sheikh Maktoum bin Marwan Al Maktoum, an accomplished artist and curator; designer and curator Kamla AlOlama; and Amna Al Zaabi, a researcher and Senior Curatorial Assistant at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Each participant brought their distinct perspectives and expertise, promoting a multidisciplinary approach to the arts.
Emerging figures such as artist Latifa Saeed and Fatma Al Ali, who works on collective memory and oral history, highlight the diverse voices within the UAE’s creative community. Graphic design professor Alanood Bukhammas from Zayed University and assistant professor Asma Belhamar, alongside Lebanese artist Ahmad Makary and Bahraini artist Yara Ayoob, further enriched the cohort, fostering interregional dialogue and collaboration.
Nurturing Local Talent for Global Recognition
The Japan Art & Culture Delegation Programme aligns closely with the goals of the Dubai Cultural Grant and the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy. These frameworks aim to cultivate an environment where creativity can flourish. By facilitating such international engagements, Dubai Culture acts as a catalyst, empowering local artists to step onto the world stage.
The exposure gained through interactions with Japanese art practitioners not only enhances the skill sets of Emirati creatives but also bolsters the creative economy in the region. As artists return home with fresh insights and inspirations, they contribute to an evolving artistic landscape that resonates both locally and globally.
Supporting Future Initiatives
The success of the Japan Art & Culture Delegation Programme underscores the importance of sustained investment in cultural initiatives that empower local talent. As Dubai continues to develop as a global arts hub, such programs are vital for enriching both the local cultural scene and the global artistic community.
Through its unwavering dedication to cultivating exceptional creatives, Dubai Culture ensures that Emirati artists have the tools, experiences, and networks necessary to thrive in an interconnected world, paving the way for the next generation of artistic leaders.
For those interested in following the developments within this vibrant cultural initiative, you can read more about the programme on MENAFN.
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