Latest news with #DepartmentofCultureandTourismAbuDhabi
Biz Bahrain
15-05-2025
- Business
- Biz Bahrain
RISE Launches Arts & Culture Practice to Drive Commercial Growth of the Sector Across MENA
The MENA region's leading independent sports, culture and entertainment commercial agency, RISE Group, has launched a specialist Arts & Culture practice, headed by industry expert from Bahrain, Rayyah Fathalla. RISE's dedicated team of arts & culture specialists will provide strategic and commercial advisory to a sector undergoing rapid evolution. 'Launching a dedicated Arts & Culture practice was a logical and timely progression for RISE,' says Fathalla. 'Our aim is to help cultural institutions and heritage sites realise their full potential by adopting commercial strategies that are both innovative and sustainable. The region's cultural landscape is becoming increasingly sophisticated and plays a huge role in developing local communities, quality of life and tourism. Our niche industry knowledge and deep understanding of the MENA region enable us to provide market–leading solutions.' RISE has supported the commercialisation of groundbreaking cultural projects such as Riyadh Art, including the Noor Riyadh festival, and the first Saudi Grand Opera. The agency has also delivered commercial projects for prominent clients, including the Ministry of Culture, the Heritage Commission, Diriyah Season, Qiddiya, Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, the Royal Commission for AlUla, and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City. With more than a decade of experience delivering high-profile commercial success in the region, RISE is well established as the market leader, guiding organisations through an increasingly competitive market. The new practice will provide specialised services including asset valuations, commercial strategy development, institutional management, sponsorship frameworks, sales activation, and market education. 'We recognise the importance of empowering our clients,' Fathalla added. 'Our role is not only to deliver commercial results but also to ensure organisations across the region are equipped with the knowledge to maintain sustainable growth in the long-term. It's an approach that builds resilient cultural economies.' Fathalla, a highly regarded cultural diplomacy advisor with more than 20 years of international expertise, previously led high-impact projects for major institutions including Expo 2020 Dubai, Brunswick Group, and the British Council, working closely with prestigious organisations such as the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities, Christie's, and the Grand Egyptian Museum. With several significant projects underway across Saudi Arabia and the UAE, RISE's new practice is positioned to further strengthen the region's global cultural profile and drive sustained economic growth. For additional information on RISE's services, visit
The National
16-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Rod Stewart set for Abu Dhabi return before world tour retirement
Rod Stewart will return to Abu Dhabi for his first UAE concert in eight years. The legendary British singer, 80, will perform at the Etihad Arena on December 17. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame member will perform hits from his six-decade career, including Maggie May, Forever Young, and Have I Told You Lately That I Love You. Stewart announced his retirement from major global tours in November, although he does not plan step away entirely. 'This will be the end of large-scale world tours for me, but I have no desire to retire. I love what I do, and I do what I love,' he said on X. The singer will also perform in the legends slot at England's Glastonbury Festival in June. His 33rd album, Swing Fever, hit number one on the UK charts in 2024. Organised by Live Nation Middle East, the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi and Miral, the concert will be Stewart's second in Abu Dhabi after his performance in 2017. The National's Saeed Saeed wrote in his review at the time: 'With Rockin' Rod, it always comes down to that voice. That winning combination of full-throttled roar and raspy whisper served him well. It allowed his five-decade career to encompass various styles ranging from pop, rock and folk to his relatively recent foray into the great American songbook.' Presale tickets will be available through Stewart's website on Thursday, April 17 at 8am, with another presale starting at noon through Live Nation Middle East, before a general sale on Friday.
The National
11-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Dave Chappelle set for Abu Dhabi Comedy Season in June
American comedian Dave Chappelle will return to the UAE capital for Abu Dhabi Comedy Season in June. The show, set for June 27 at Etihad Arena, will be Chappelle's fourth in the UAE. His 2024 event, part of the inaugural Abu Dhabi Comedy Week, welcomed a record-breaking 14,000 guests, the largest attendance for a comedy event in the region's history. Organised by Live National Middle East and GME Events in association with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi and Miral, Abu Dhabi Comedy Season will also feature comedians including Trevor Noah, Kevin Hart, Gad Elmaleh, Michael McIntyre, Fluffy, Pete Davidson, Bill Burr and more. Chappelle promised he would return to the UAE at the end of his 2024 Abu Dhabi show, saying: 'The fact that you guys are doing this festival here is one of the most powerful things that is happening in the world. I was told before stepping on stage that this is the biggest comedy show the Middle East has ever seen. Mark my words, I will be back.' The comedian, both widely beloved and consistently controversial, is known for his razor-sharp wit and fearless approach to comedy. His last set included pointed observations about the Israel-Gaza War, which he referred to as a 'genocide', as well as comments on US political figures and the African-American civil rights movement. The National's Saeed Saeed wrote in his review: "His latest show is primarily a celebration of telling jokes, no matter how big or small. At times it can be dazzling, with Chappelle's ability to twist and turn a particular premise when recalling his experience travelling in a time machine, while at other times it as direct as the toilet humour unheard of since high school days." Famed for his sketch comedy series Chappelle's Show (2003 – 2006), Saturday Night Live hosting appearances and his six acclaimed Netflix specials, the comedian has won five Emmy Awards in his career. Tickets, which require registration, go on sale at 8am on April 14 through Live Nation's website and April 15 on Ticketmaster's website, before a general sale on April 16.
Zawya
17-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Miral launches ‘Ruwad' Awards to celebrate excellence in guest experience
Abu Dhabi, UAE – Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, launches Yas Island's first annual Awards programme, 'Ruwad Awards'. In line with its commitment to recognizing excellence in guest services and setting new benchmarks within the tourism and entertainment industries, the 'Ruwad' Awards aims to celebrate the outstanding individuals and teams who bring Yas Island's world-class guest experiences to life. Reflecting the meaning of its name, 'pioneers' in Arabic, the Ruwad Awards honor those who lead the way in shaping world-class hospitality and service provided to guests visiting Yas Island's attractions, hotels and experiences. From guest-facing roles to behind-the-scenes teams and strategic leadership, the initiative highlights Yas Island's ongoing commitment to excellence in customer experience and industry best practices. The awards ceremony, attended by HE Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General for Tourism at Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, and Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, took place at Hilton Abu Dhabi, Yas Island. The ceremony celebrated 14 outstanding employees across key categories, recognizing both outstanding individuals and exceptional teams. Speaking at the ceremony, Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said: 'Exceptional guest experience is at the heart of Yas Island's success, and the 'Ruwad' Awards are a tribute to the dedication and passion of our teams. By recognizing those who continuously raise the bar in hospitality and service, we aim to foster a culture of excellence that further positions Yas Island as a leading global destination in leisure, entertainment and tourism.' Through this initiative, guest-facing professionals across call centers, theme parks, attractions, retail, F&B, and hospitality are honored for their dedication to creating memorable experiences. Teams that set industry benchmarks through innovation and excellence are acknowledged for their impact. Senior-level professionals who demonstrate visionary leadership in shaping guest experiences and fostering a human-centric culture are recognized for their contributions, while individuals who go above and beyond to deliver unparalleled service receive special recognition. Winners were selected by a panel of 12 industry experts, with each submission evaluated by three judges. To ensure impartiality, judges from the same company as an applicant were replaced with independent judges. In the event of a tie, it was broken by comparing how many judges gave each application a higher score, and if necessary, a fourth judge was brought in to cast the deciding vote. Each winner was awarded a cash prize of AED5,000, reinforcing the initiative's commitment to excellence and inspiring future success. The Ruwad Awards reflect Yas Island's ongoing efforts to celebrate innovation and service excellence, ensuring that every guest enjoys a truly memorable and unmatched experience, while contributing to positioning Abu Dhabi as a top global destination. -Ends- About Yas Island Located on the golden shores of Abu Dhabi - just 20 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi and 50 minutes from Dubai, Yas Island, offers holidaymakers a diverse mix of leisure and entertainment experiences. From award-winning theme parks such as Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi to incredible attractions such as the record-breaking CLYMB™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and the thrilling Yas Marina Circuit, home to Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, visitors are bound to discover a world of entertainment options all within the 25 sq. km island. Yas Island boasts world-class shopping at Abu Dhabi's largest mall Yas Mall, eclectic dining at Yas Marina and Yas Bay Waterfront, Abu Dhabi's vibrant day to night attraction and award-winning golf at Yas Links golf course. The island offers a year-round line-up of spectacular musical, entertainment and family events at Etihad Arena, the Middle East's largest indoor entertainment venue and houses ten incredible hotels, including W Abu Dhabi - Yas Island, Hilton Abu Dhabi Yas Island, and The WB™ Abu Dhabi, the world's first Warner Bros. themed hotel. The destination also features WHITE Abu Dhabi, a one-of-a-kind multi-sensory indoor venue and more than 165 dining experiences dotting the island - complementing these attractions is a range of visitor services that connect all attractions to one another. With the opening of SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the World's Largest Indoor Marine Life Theme Park, Yas Island continues to add more attractions to its incredible roster. For more information, please visit MEDIA CONTACTS: Rashad Al Ghadban rghadban@ Rogina Barsoum rbarsoum@
Zawya
12-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Calling UAE SMEs to create unique products
Calling all UAE-based licensed SMEs to ignite their creativity and develop a unique collection that draws inspiration from Louvre Abu Dhabi's iconic architecture Proposals w i ll be accepted until 10 March 2025 Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi Photo by Hufton+Crow3 Abu Dhabi, UAE: Louvre Abu Dhabi is proud to announce the launch of an initiative aimed at forging innovative brand collaborations with UAE-based small and medium enterprises (SMEs). This programme is designed to celebrate the unique cultural and architectural heritage of the museum while fostering creativity and sustainable growth within the UAE. Themed around the museum's iconic architecture, the first edition of this initiative invites UAE-based businesses to draw inspiration from Louvre Abu Dhabi's breathtaking design and rich cultural tapestry. This collaboration will result in the creation of an exclusive range of innovative, high-quality products that embody the spirit of the museum and resonate with both local and international audiences. The collaboration with the museum provides local SMEs with a unique opportunity to showcase their expertise by developing exclusive, branded products. These items will be available at both the SMEs' stores and the museum's Boutique. This collaboration not only enhances the visibility of local businesses but also offers the museum a curated selection of high-quality, bespoke products, fostering a mutually beneficial relationship that supports small businesses and the local economy. Lamya Rashid Al Nuaimi, Development, Marketing and Communications Director at Louvre Abu Dhabi, said: "Louvre Abu Dhabi has always stood as a beacon of cultural connection, and this programme amplifies that vision by harnessing the dynamic entrepreneurial spirit of the UAE. By inviting local SMEs to collaborate with us and our brand, we aim to celebrate not only the architectural and cultural richness of the museum but also the creativity and talent that define our region. This initiative is more than a collaboration, as we strive to connect local craftsmanship and innovation with a global audience, driving meaningful impact that extends far beyond our walls." With a strong emphasis on celebrating UAE heritage and supporting the local economy, this programme reflects Louvre Abu Dhabi's commitment to its community. By providing local businesses with opportunities to connect and showcase their talents, the initiative highlights UAE craftsmanship and creativity on a global stage. Application process and timeline February 2025: Accepting proposals March 2025: Committee reviews and approval process April 2025: Physical product development begins Louvre Abu Dhabi's operating hours Museum: Open: 10 am – 6.30 pm (Tuesday – Thursday); extended hours: 10 am – 8.30 pm (Friday - Sunday); closed on Monday. Dome: Open: 10 am – midnight (Tuesday - Sunday) - last entry 11 pm; closed on Monday. Museum Café: Open: 10 am – 7 pm (Tuesday - Thursday); extended hours: 10 am – 9 pm (Friday – Sunday). Closed on Monday. Art Lounge: Open: 3 pm – 12 am (last order 11 pm); closed on Monday and during summer. Fouquet's Abu Dhabi and Marta Bar: Open: 12 pm – 12 am (last orders at 10 pm) (Tuesday – Thursday, Sunday); weekends: 12 pm – 1 am (last order at 10.30 pm) (Friday – Saturday); closed on Monday. Aptitude Café: Open: 9 am – 10 pm (daily including Monday) ABOUT LOUVRE ABU DHABI Created by an exceptional agreement between the governments of Abu Dhabi and France, Louvre Abu Dhabi was designed by Jean Nouvel and opened on Saadiyat Island in November 2017. The museum is inspired by traditional Islamic architecture and its monumental dome creates a rain of light effect and a unique social space that brings people together. Louvre Abu Dhabi celebrates the universal creativity of mankind and invites audiences to see humanity in a new light. Through its innovative curatorial approach, the museum focuses on building understanding across cultures: through stories of human creativity that transcend civilisations, geographies, and times. The museum's growing collection is unparalleled in the region and spans thousands of years of human history, including prehistoric tools, artefacts, religious texts, iconic paintings, and contemporary artworks. The permanent collection is supplemented by rotating loans from 19 French partner institutions, regional and international museums. Louvre Abu Dhabi is a testing ground for new ideas in a globalised world and champions new generations of cultural leaders. Its international exhibitions, programming and Children's Museum are inclusive platforms that connect communities and offer enjoyment for all. ABOUT THE DEPARTMENT OF CULTURE AND TOURISM – ABU DHABI The Department of Culture and Tourism–Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi's culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuels economic progress and helps achieve Abu Dhabi's wider global ambitions. By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate's position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate's potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies, and systems to support the culture and tourism industries. DCT Abu Dhabi's vision is defined by the emirate's people, heritage, and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi's status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives, and creative thought. ABOUT SAADIYAT CULTURAL DISTRICT Home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, Berklee Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abrahamic Family House and the soon-to-open Zayed National Museum, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi and Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Cultural District is one of the greatest concentrations of cultural institutions. Saadiyat Cultural District is a global platform, emanating from a rich cultural heritage, celebrating traditions, and advancing equitable culture. It is an embodiment of empowerment, showcasing museums, collections, and narratives that supports the region's heritage while promoting a diverse global cultural landscape. Saadiyat Cultural District is a testament to Abu Dhabi's commitment to preserving heritage while embracing a forward-looking vision. The District invites the world to engage with diverse cultures, fostering dialogue exchange, and offers a global cultural space that supports the region and the global South.
