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Mid East Info
5 days ago
- Business
- Mid East Info
Al-Futtaim Launches 'Building Bridges' to Empower Emirati Youth and Celebrate 70 Years of UAE–Japan Partnership
In alignment with the UAE's Year of Community, Al-Futtaim in collaboration with its partners will send 50 young Emirati delegates to Expo 2025 in Osaka to immerse them in international experience and foster deeper cultural and economic ties between the two nations. Dubai, United Arab Emirates;August 2025: In recognition of the UAE's Year of Community, Al-Futtaim, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Culture, Emirates Foundation and Al Khaleejiya Radio 100.9, and with the support of the UAE Pavilion is proud to launch 'Building Bridges: Voices of the Future', a landmark initiative that will see 50 exceptional Emirati youth represent the UAE at Expo 2025 Osaka, Japan, while giving them the opportunity to explore the Expo's global showcases, participate in cultural exchange, and engage with innovations shaping the future. This initiative reflects Al-Futtaim's enduring commitment to national development and global engagement. It also underscores the company's legacy of more than 70 years of partnership with Japan, through its representation of 13 leading Japanese brands. The choice of Osaka as the destination is symbolic, reaffirming the deep bilateral relationship and a shared commitment to innovation, collaboration, and cross-cultural exchange. The delegates, aged 21 to 30, were selected through a rigorous, multi-partner process led by Al-Futtaim, the UAE Ministry of Culture, Emirates Foundation, and Al Khaleejiya Radio. Candidates were evaluated based on key criteria such as ambassadorial potential, creativity, cross-cultural awareness, community impact, and leadership capability. As part of the selection, applicants were asked to complete a creative exercise that demonstrated their alignment with the programme's values. Commenting on the initiative, Omar Al Futtaim, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Al-Futtaim said: 'This initiative perfectly aligns with our values of empowering individuals and contributing to the prosperity of the nation. By providing these exceptional young Emiratis with the opportunity to represent the UAE on a global stage, we are not only strengthening the bond between the UAE and Japan but also investing in the development of future ambassadors who will carry the UAE's message of progress, diversity, and innovation to the world. This programme provides an unparalleled platform for young Emiratis to develop their leadership skills, broaden their horizons, and become influential advocates for the UAE on the global stage, truly celebrating their voices as future global ambassadors.' H.E. Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture commented, 'Building Bridges is a powerful initiative that reflects the UAE's commitment to empowering youth and strengthening global cultural dialogue. This initiative offers our young creatives and leaders a platform to engage with the world while reinforces the deep-rooted cultural ties between the UAE and Japan. At the Ministry of Culture, we believe that nurturing cross-cultural understanding and global collaboration is essential to shaping a more inclusive, creative, and sustainable future. We are proud to support this journey and confident that these young ambassadors will carry forward the spirit of our heritage and the vision of our nation.' Adding to this sentiment, H.E Ahmed Taleb Al Shamsi, Chief Executive Officer of Emirates Foundation stated: 'Emirates Foundation is dedicated to empowering the youth of the UAE, and the 'Building Bridges' initiative offers an unparalleled opportunity for our young talent to engage with global communities. We believe this experience will be transformative, equipping them with the skills and perspectives needed to become impactful leaders and innovators.' The delegates will travel in three cohorts between August and October 2025, taking part in cultural immersions, leadership workshops, and visits to Expo 2025, where they will engage with global peers and innovations. As youth ambassadors, they will help deepen UAE–Japan ties by sharing the UAE's heritage and vision, while gaining insights and networks to inspire impact at home. In parallel, and as part of its 70YearsForward campaign, Al-Futtaim has launched a dedicated secondment programme in collaboration with the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. Between July and October, talented young Emirati employees from across the Group are seconded to support the UAE's presence on the ground. This reflects the Group's enduring commitment to cross-cultural exchange, international collaboration, and the UAE–Japan partnership and demonstrates Al-Futtaim's dedication to empowering its people with meaningful, nation-building experiences that represent the UAE's values on a global stage. About Al-Futtaim: Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Operating across 18 countries in the Middle East, North Africa and Asia, the Group spans key sectors including automotive, financial services, real estate, retail, and health. Al-Futtaim's work is driven by a clear purpose: to enrich lives and elevate communities through practical, forward-looking solutions. Employing a workforce of nearly 33,000 people, Al-Futtaim represents a portfolio of over 200 of the world's most recognised and trusted brands, including Toyota, Lexus, IKEA, ACE, Marks & Spencer, and many more. With a strong focus on digital innovation and artificial intelligence, sustainable growth, strategic partnerships, and empowering its people, Al-Futtaim's approach is anchored in long-term value creation. Its integrated business model positions the Group as a reliable partner to stakeholders—supporting customers, communities, and collaborators alike in navigating the needs of today while planning for tomorrow. Underpinned by the values of respect, excellence, collaboration, and integrity, Al-Futtaim continues to build a legacy that reflects its responsibility to people, progress, and the planet.
Sharjah 24
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Al-Burda Exhibition inaugurated at Aga Khan Museum in Canada
Running until February 15, 2026, the exhibition is a product of a cultural collaboration between the UAE Ministry of Culture and the Aga Khan Museum, commemorating the 20th anniversary of the Al-Burda Award. It signifies a pivotal moment for the award, featuring over 60 contemporary artworks by past Al-Burda Award winners. Additionally, two pieces from the Al-Badr Award collection are presented, creating a compelling visual dialogue with historical and archaeological artifacts from the Aga Khan Museum's permanent collection. The exhibition delves into the rich evolution of Islamic arts, encompassing Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, and Arabic poetry. The exhibition was curated by three graduates of the Al Burda Grant 2024 Curators: Fatma Al Mahmoud; Sara bin Safwan; and Shaikha Al Zaabi. Their collaborative effort presents a contemporary artistic vision that embodies cultural empowerment and cross-border knowledge exchange, reflecting the award's spirit and future aspirations. A robust cultural programme accompanies the exhibition, featuring specialised workshops, lectures, and seminars focusing on Arabic calligraphy, poetry, and Islamic ornamentation. Interactive performances are also part of the programme, designed to deepen public engagement with contemporary Islamic art and highlight its diversity and adaptability in expressing aesthetic values and cultural identity. Coinciding with the opening, a commemorative book titled "Like the Sun Appearing to the Eyes from Afar" was launched. This publication documents the exhibition and explores the artistic and intellectual dimensions of the Al-Burda Award in the context of its 20th anniversary. It includes a collection of essays by experts in Islamic arts, intellectuals, and art collectors, offering in-depth analysis and reflections on the award's role in empowering contemporary Islamic art and enhancing its global cultural presence. This book serves as a vital cultural and artistic reference, chronicling the development of calligraphy, ornamentation, and literary arts, and underscoring the UAE's commitment to supporting Islamic arts, fostering cultural exchange, and deepening appreciation for this ancient artistic tradition. In his opening remarks, Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi emphasised the event as a significant milestone in the Al-Burda Award's journey. He stated: 'This exhibition represents a strategic step towards expanding cultural cooperation between the UAE and Canada. It reflects our firm commitment to presenting Islamic arts within contemporary frameworks that express shared human values and promote intercultural dialogue. In its 20th year, the Al-Burda Award continues to serve as a global Emirati platform, reintroducing Islamic arts to the world in a language attuned to the spirit of our times.' He added: 'We are proud that this edition of the exhibition is the result of a pioneering partnership with the Aga Khan Museum, which underscores the depth of cultural openness and the role of art in building bridges of civilizational dialogue. We look forward to continuing our work with international partners to empower creatives and contribute to shaping a more diverse and influential global cultural scene.' Established in 2004, the Al-Burda Award has honoured over 390 talent worldwide, including poets, visual artists, and calligraphers specialising in Islamic arts. The award has evolved into a global Emirati platform that celebrates this ancient art form and the rich beauty of the Arabic language. It further strengthens the UAE's role in fostering creativity, preserving the artistic heritage of Islamic civilisation, and promoting outstanding works of art to international audiences.
Hi Dubai
26-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Hi Dubai
Ministry of Culture Launches 19th Al Burda Award Celebrating Social Unity Through Islamic Art
The UAE Ministry of Culture has launched the 19th edition of the Al Burda Award, spotlighting the theme of 'Social Cohesion and Unity' in alignment with the country's 'Year of the Community' initiative. The award continues its mission to highlight the beauty of Islamic art while promoting values of tolerance, coexistence, and cultural dialogue. Held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the award reflects the UAE's ongoing efforts to preserve Islamic heritage and promote it globally. Sheikh Abdullah underscored the country's role in nurturing Islamic arts and introducing their universal values to international audiences. Minister of Culture Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi said the award embodies the UAE's vision of using art as a bridge between cultures. He invited creatives from across the Islamic world to submit works that capture the spirit and beauty of Islamic artistic traditions. This year's edition draws inspiration from verse 13 of Surah Al-Hujurat and a verse from the renowned Burda poem, reinforcing the call for unity among diverse communities. The award features three main categories: Arabic Calligraphy, Arabic Poetry, and Ornamentation, each offering subcategories with significant prize pools. A total of over AED 1.5 million has been allocated to support artists across these fields. Since its inception in 2004, Al Burda Award has honoured more than 390 artists, poets, and calligraphers. It stands today as a leading platform championing the richness of Islamic art and the enduring legacy of the Arabic language. Entries are open on the website until 30 September 2025, with art submissions accepted until 13 October 2025. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Business Wire
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Wire
As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award Illuminates the Aga Khan Museum This Summer
TORONTO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Following a successful opening at the 18th Al Burda Award ceremony, hosted at the Louvre Abu Dhabi in December 2024, As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award makes its North American debut at the Aga Khan Museum on June 14, 2025. Marking a historic first, the exhibition is the result of a unique Memorandum of Understanding between the Aga Khan Museum and the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture. Featuring more than 60 spectacular artworks from the Al Burda Award collection, the exhibition places these contemporary pieces in dialogue with historical masterpieces from the Aga Khan Museum Collections. It presents an artistic and contemplative conversation between past and present, offering a captivating visual experience that bridges the physical and the spiritual. Showcasing classical and contemporary expressions of Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, abstract painting, and the art of the word, the exhibition celebrates some of the most outstanding artists in Islamic art today. It invites visitors on a contemplative journey through sublime beauty, deep spirituality, and breathtaking technical skill. From visual art to an interactive poetry listening station, the exhibition illuminates pathways to intercultural understanding, renewal, and spiritual connection, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the creative spirit of the Muslim world today. As the Sun Appears from Beyond was co-curated by Fatma Mahmoud, Sara bin Safwan, and Shaikha Al Zaabi, in collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum. The young Emirati curators represent the first cohort of Al Burda Fellows, selected by the UAE Ministry of Culture to curate the Al Burda Award's remarkable 20-year collection. Their curatorial journey began in July 2024, when they travelled to Toronto for a professional residency at the Aga Khan Museum. There, they immersed themselves in the Museum's unique mandate, Collections, and approach to culturally appropriate museology before developing the exhibition around the theme of light — Al-Noor — in celebration of 20 years of the Al Burda Award and the Museum's 10th anniversary. 'The collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Culture and its three exceptional Al Burda Fellows has been an honour and a joy. Working on such a prestigious project together, across and beyond cultural differences, has been a truly enriching and inspiring experience for the Museum,' says Dr. Ulrike Al-Khamis, Director and CEO of the Aga Khan Museum. 'Together, we have opened up a new world of intercultural artistic appreciation, dialogue, and understanding. To that end, our storytelling approach is not only factual but also allows for empathetic, inclusive engagement. Striving for the art to be presented in a way that transcends cultural differences, the exhibition invites aesthetic appreciation, engenders conversation, and serves as a creative resource for intercultural learning.' The Memorandum of Understanding between the Aga Khan Museum and the UAE Ministry of Culture, signed in December 2023, aims to enrich educational and artistic initiatives for young professionals, intellectuals, art practitioners, and students. Through collaboration, it opens pathways to learning and creative development with training and mentorship. This groundbreaking partnership, driven by a shared commitment to pluralism and cross-cultural dialogue, envisions diverse opportunities at museums and cultural institutions in the United Arab Emirates and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto for emerging curators, artists, and museum professionals. 'Our collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum, highlighted through the As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award exhibition, exemplifies the powerful impact of cross-cultural partnerships in fostering artistic innovation and dialogue. This exhibition marks a significant milestone for Al Burda's rich history and the young Emirati curators who have shaped it during their residency in Toronto,' says H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture. 'Their creative vision and dedication, nurtured by this unique partnership, underscore our shared commitment to supporting emerging voices and advancing cultural diplomacy. By bridging the artistic heritage of the UAE and Canada, we are laying the foundation for a more connected and inclusive global artistic landscape.' Alongside the exhibition, visitors can deepen their experience through a series of talks, lectures, hands-on workshops, dynamic performances, and interdisciplinary programs inspired by poetry, calligraphy, and ornamentation. From a mesmerizing dance, exploring the rhythm and geometry of ornamental design, to deeper meditative reflections on calligraphy, these programs offer an immersive journey beyond the galleries. About the Aga Khan Museum The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, Canada, has been established and developed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), which is an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Through permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational activities and performing arts, the Museum's mission is to spark wonder, curiosity, and understanding of Muslim cultures and their connection with other cultures through the arts. Designed by architect Fumihiko Maki, the Museum shares a 6.8-hectare site with Toronto's Ismaili Centre, which was designed by architect Charles Correa. The surrounding landscaped park was designed by landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic. About the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture The Ministry of Culture works to enrich the cultural ecosystem of the UAE by supporting the country's cultural, art and heritage institutions. It provides a platform for artists and innovators, promotes cross-cultural dialogue, and delivers dynamic productions and experiences that represent the UAE's rich and eclectic culture on a national as well as international level.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award Illuminates the Aga Khan Museum This Summer
The groundbreaking exhibition, co-curated by the inaugural Al Burda Fellows, celebrates contemporary Islamic art and a shared commitment to intercultural dialogue and understanding TORONTO, June 12, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Following a successful opening at the 18th Al Burda Award ceremony, hosted at the Louvre Abu Dhabi in December 2024, As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award makes its North American debut at the Aga Khan Museum on June 14, 2025. Marking a historic first, the exhibition is the result of a unique Memorandum of Understanding between the Aga Khan Museum and the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture. Featuring more than 60 spectacular artworks from the Al Burda Award collection, the exhibition places these contemporary pieces in dialogue with historical masterpieces from the Aga Khan Museum Collections. It presents an artistic and contemplative conversation between past and present, offering a captivating visual experience that bridges the physical and the spiritual. Showcasing classical and contemporary expressions of Arabic calligraphy, ornamentation, abstract painting, and the art of the word, the exhibition celebrates some of the most outstanding artists in Islamic art today. It invites visitors on a contemplative journey through sublime beauty, deep spirituality, and breathtaking technical skill. From visual art to an interactive poetry listening station, the exhibition illuminates pathways to intercultural understanding, renewal, and spiritual connection, offering a unique opportunity to engage with the creative spirit of the Muslim world today. As the Sun Appears from Beyond was co-curated by Fatma Mahmoud, Sara bin Safwan, and Shaikha Al Zaabi, in collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum. The young Emirati curators represent the first cohort of Al Burda Fellows, selected by the UAE Ministry of Culture to curate the Al Burda Award's remarkable 20-year collection. Their curatorial journey began in July 2024, when they travelled to Toronto for a professional residency at the Aga Khan Museum. There, they immersed themselves in the Museum's unique mandate, Collections, and approach to culturally appropriate museology before developing the exhibition around the theme of light — Al-Noor — in celebration of 20 years of the Al Burda Award and the Museum's 10th anniversary. "The collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Culture and its three exceptional Al Burda Fellows has been an honour and a joy. Working on such a prestigious project together, across and beyond cultural differences, has been a truly enriching and inspiring experience for the Museum," says Dr. Ulrike Al-Khamis, Director and CEO of the Aga Khan Museum. "Together, we have opened up a new world of intercultural artistic appreciation, dialogue, and understanding. To that end, our storytelling approach is not only factual but also allows for empathetic, inclusive engagement. Striving for the art to be presented in a way that transcends cultural differences, the exhibition invites aesthetic appreciation, engenders conversation, and serves as a creative resource for intercultural learning." The Memorandum of Understanding between the Aga Khan Museum and the UAE Ministry of Culture, signed in December 2023, aims to enrich educational and artistic initiatives for young professionals, intellectuals, art practitioners, and students. Through collaboration, it opens pathways to learning and creative development with training and mentorship. This groundbreaking partnership, driven by a shared commitment to pluralism and cross-cultural dialogue, envisions diverse opportunities at museums and cultural institutions in the United Arab Emirates and the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto for emerging curators, artists, and museum professionals. "Our collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum, highlighted through the As the Sun Appears from Beyond: Twenty Years of the Al Burda Award exhibition, exemplifies the powerful impact of cross-cultural partnerships in fostering artistic innovation and dialogue. This exhibition marks a significant milestone for Al Burda's rich history and the young Emirati curators who have shaped it during their residency in Toronto," says H.E. Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture. "Their creative vision and dedication, nurtured by this unique partnership, underscore our shared commitment to supporting emerging voices and advancing cultural diplomacy. By bridging the artistic heritage of the UAE and Canada, we are laying the foundation for a more connected and inclusive global artistic landscape." Alongside the exhibition, visitors can deepen their experience through a series of talks, lectures, hands-on workshops, dynamic performances, and interdisciplinary programs inspired by poetry, calligraphy, and ornamentation. From a mesmerizing dance, exploring the rhythm and geometry of ornamental design, to deeper meditative reflections on calligraphy, these programs offer an immersive journey beyond the galleries. About the Aga Khan Museum The Aga Khan Museum in Toronto, Canada, has been established and developed by the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), which is an agency of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN). Through permanent and temporary exhibitions, educational activities and performing arts, the Museum's mission is to spark wonder, curiosity, and understanding of Muslim cultures and their connection with other cultures through the arts. Designed by architect Fumihiko Maki, the Museum shares a 6.8-hectare site with Toronto's Ismaili Centre, which was designed by architect Charles Correa. The surrounding landscaped park was designed by landscape architect Vladimir Djurovic. About the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Culture The Ministry of Culture works to enrich the cultural ecosystem of the UAE by supporting the country's cultural, art and heritage institutions. It provides a platform for artists and innovators, promotes cross-cultural dialogue, and delivers dynamic productions and experiences that represent the UAE's rich and eclectic culture on a national as well as international level. View source version on Contacts FOR PRESS INQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT: Garry Ho Porter Novelli 347.379.3089 Kelly Frances Director, Marketing and Communications Aga Khan Museum press@ 416.858.8735 Sign in to access your portfolio
