Mohammed bin Rashid Reviews Cultural District Project in Dubai South

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviewed the cultural district project. WAM
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviewed the cultural district project. WAM
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Mohammed bin Rashid Reviews Cultural District Project in Dubai South

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviewed the cultural district project. WAM
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum reviewed the cultural district project. WAM

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, reviewed the cultural district project, located within the Azizi Venice community in Dubai South, Emirates News Agency (WAM) reported.

Launched by Azizi Developments, the project aims to enrich Dubai’s cultural and art landscape and foster innovation in the creative sector, WAM said.

Sheikh Mohammed was briefed by Mirwais Azizi, Founder and Chairman of Azizi Developments, on the key components of the project which seeks to strengthen Dubai's position as a global cultural hub and improve its ranking in global competitiveness indices. The unique project reflects Dubai's commitment to nurturing creative talent, reinforcing its reputation as a leading destination for creatives worldwide.

Aligned with the aims of the Dubai Creative Economy Strategy, the cultural district project in Dubai South supports the leadership’s vision to transform Dubai into a global creative economy capital. By fostering a supportive environment for creatives, investors, and entrepreneurs, the project aims to drive global leadership in culture and creativity. Creative business incubators that use advanced technology to empower creatives and enhance the sector’s global competitiveness are central to this initiative.

The cultural district in Dubai South will feature a collection of exceptional facilities, including an opera house, theater, exhibition halls, and a performing arts academy. Designed to enrich Dubai's vibrant and diverse cultural scene, the project is poised to attract artists and creatives from around the globe. Seamlessly blending art and culture, the upcoming district promises to be a vibrant hub, enriching the lives of Dubai South residents through diverse activities and experiences.



Christie’s Launches First International Auction House in Saudi Arabia

A special installation work for the artist Ahmed Mater commissioned by Wadi AlFann in AlUla. (Christie's)
A special installation work for the artist Ahmed Mater commissioned by Wadi AlFann in AlUla. (Christie's)
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Christie’s Launches First International Auction House in Saudi Arabia

A special installation work for the artist Ahmed Mater commissioned by Wadi AlFann in AlUla. (Christie's)
A special installation work for the artist Ahmed Mater commissioned by Wadi AlFann in AlUla. (Christie's)

Christie’s auction house announced the appointment of Nour Kelani as General Manager in Saudi Arabia, tasked with overseeing services for local clients. This follows Christie’s acquisition of a business license to operate in the Kingdom, making it the first international auction house in the country.

Dr. Ridha Moumni, Chairman of Christie’s for the Middle East and Africa, explained that the primary motivation behind opening their first office in Saudi Arabia stems from the notable growth in arts, culture, and economies in the region in recent years. He noted that Saudi Arabia has emerged as a key player in this growth, “and in light of these unique developments, we decided to establish an office here.”

Speaking on the local art scene, Moumni said: “The artistic and creative landscape in Saudi Arabia has always been strong, as evidenced by the production of exceptional works that reflect the country’s local traditions and its social and cultural issues, which have earned a prominent place on the international stage of modern and contemporary art.”

“Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is witnessing a new contemporary art renaissance, led by Saudi artists who draw from the nation’s rich heritage and benefit from the support of various artistic initiatives, institutions, and networks,” he added.

Moumni also pointed out that this move follows the success of the exhibition featuring works by Saudi artist Dr. Ahmed Mater, recently hosted by Christie’s in London, as well as their active participation in the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale this year. He added: “We have been preparing for this step for some time.”

Asked whether Christie’s upcoming exhibitions will be limited to Riyadh, he responded: “Our General Manager for Christie’s in the Kingdom will operate from our office in Riyadh, which will serve as a base for us to serve our clients in Saudi Arabia. Our representatives will travel across the country, and we will announce our plans for events and exhibitions at the appropriate time.”

He continued: “We will maintain our efforts to raise awareness on Arab art through our international platforms and our 46 offices worldwide. This global presence allows us to further promote artistic talent from the region. We are constantly evaluating our initiatives and planning future exhibitions to highlight the diverse and dynamic voices in the art community, and we look forward to our plans for 2025 in Riyadh and London.”