The second edition of ‘Dubai Next,' platform aimed at promoting the thriving cultural industry of Dubai, at the renowned Institut du Monde Arabe (Arab World Institute) in the heart of Paris, concluded in the presence of key cultural and arts figures from Paris, a delegation of key cultural figures from the United Arab Emirates, participating artists, and ambassadors and dignitaries representing over 55 countries.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Majid Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), the Emirate’s dedicated Authority for culture, arts, and heritage, ‘Dubai Next,' organised by Dubai Culture, is a platform that brings Emirati and UAE-based artists to the international circuit. The three-day cultural event drew more than 400 people on its opening night, followed by two days of rich talks by influential speakers from the arts, culture and design industry in Dubai. The event also featured an art exhibition and film screenings for visitors to gain rich insights into the region’s rapidly evolving cultural landscape.

Under the theme ‘Dubai Next: Faces of Tomorrow,’ which reiterates Dubai’s global position as a hub for collaboration and creativity, Dubai Culture showcased dynamic works of Emirati and international artists. With France backing UAE’s bid for the World Expo 2020, ‘Dubai Next’ in Paris is a demonstration of the strong partnership between the two countries.

The UAE delegation, alongside the dignitaries from the UAE Embassy, present in Paris to unveil ‘Dubai Next’ included: His Excellency Mohammed Al Murr, President of the UAE Federal National Council; His Excellency Abdul Ghaffar Hussain, Chairman of the UAE Human Rights Association; Bilal Al Budoor, Assistant Deputy of Arts and Culture, Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Community Development; Dhaen Shahin, Director-General for Publishing, Dubai Media Incorporated and Chief Editor of Al Bayan newspaper ; Mr. Ali Obaid Al Hamli, President of the News Division of Dubai Media Incorporated; Hussain Al Jazeeri, Lawyer and President of the French Association of the UAE; President and Founder of Al Serkal Avenue, Ahmed Issa Al Serkal; artist Abdulqader Al Rais; and from the Authority, Dr. Salah Al Qassim, Advisor to Dubai Culture, and Khalil Abdulwahid, Manager of Visual Arts of Dubai Culture.

The artworks from talented UAE artists showcased at the Dubai Next art exhibition included: Alia Hussain Lootah; Alia Zaal Lootah; Vinicius Luis; Lateefa Bint Maktoum; Mattar Bin Lahej; Maitha bin Demithan; and aspiring Emirati chef Shaikha Al Ali, who created an Arabic fusion dessert corner for the opening night.

Dr. Salah Al Qassim said: “With the UAE bidding to host the World Expo 2020, ‘Dubai Next’ embodies Dubai Culture’s ambition for the next generations of artists. France and the UAE have shared strong ties for decades and the launch of ‘Dubai Next’ in France is a fitting tribute to celebrate the relationship that these two nations share.”

To read the complete media release, see the external link below.

http://www.dubaiculture.ae/en/MediaCenter/PressReleases/Pages/Second-edition-of-%27Dubai-Next%27-in-Paris-.aspx#.UlTk8lOKzTo