Tag Archives: Cultural Foundation

His Highness Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Member of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council and Chairman of the Executive Committee, inaugurated new spaces within the Cultural Foundation, marking the completion of major renovation and maintenance work at one of Abu Dhabi’s the most prominent cultural landmarks. Located in historic Al Hosn, in the heart of the capital, the Cultural Foundation’s new spaces include a 900-seat theatre and the all-new Abu Dhabi Children’s Library. HH Sheikh Khalid bin Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan said, “Abu Dhabi’s strength as a cultural hub is the deep link between our history and future aspirations. Investment in immersive learning spaces like this will develop the young leaders of the future.” The inauguration ceremony was attended by HE Dr. Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development – Abu Dhabi; HE Eng. Awaidha Murshid Al Marar, Chairman of the Department of Energy – Abu Dhabi, H.E. Saif Mohamed Al Hajeri, Chairman of the Department of Economic Development, Abu Dhabi, HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Education and Knowledge – Abu Dhabi, HE Zaki Anwar Nusseibeh, Minister of State. The inauguration marks the start of the institution’s opening season, which will welcome the public to enjoy landmark visual arts exhibitions, a performing arts series, the library’s multi-generational educational programme, the newly established Bait Al Khatt (House of Calligraphy) and the Al Marsam Al Hor (Art Studios). Reem Fadda, Director of the Cultural Foundation, said, “With a multitude of events for audiences of all ages to enjoy, it is our goal to nurture and educate the nation, and offer a new platform …

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi  has announced that the much-anticipated opening of the Abu Dhabi Children’s Library and a new theatre at the Cultural Foundation, will take place on September 4, 2019. The launch of these two assets follows an extensive investment in rehabilitating the Cultural Foundation, as part of the development of the Al Hosn cultural site in downtown Abu Dhabi. Al Hosn cultural site is home to the Cultural Foundation, a cherished historical and cultural landmark which embodies Sheikh Zayed’s vision to nurture cultural consciousness and the identity of a modern nation. With the addition of the Children’s Library, the Foundation fosters its position and legacy as the UAE’s first and most accessible cultural centre dedicated to learning and creativity which encompasses a theatre, a library, and a visual arts centre. H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, said, “Al Hosn is a key part of our mission to support the younger generations and engage them with the UAE’s rich national heritage and with all aspects of global culture, enhancing Abu Dhabi’s position as a cultural capital for the Middle East.” The Abu Dhabi Children’s Library is spread over three floors, with the 5,250 square metre facility divided into several age-appropriate, social spaces. Designed with inspiration from pop-up books in mind, the library boasts several three-dimensional learning and play spaces in which children can physically immerse themselves to become part of a story. Meanwhile, the Cultural Foundation’s renovated 900-seat theatre will showcase world-class contemporary, popular and home-grown performing arts, including music, dance, and theatre, in the heart of the city.  

As the United Arab Emirates (UAE) celebrated the 47th National Day, His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman, DCT Abu Dhabi, said, “The early years will reflect on the reason for the important artistic and cultural role that this institution has played in the community. The Cultural Foundation was a gathering place, a home for exchange and debate and a beacon for intellectual inspiration. Many of our UAE artists had their firsts there – their first introduction to art, first exhibition, first sale of an artwork. With its reopening, the Cultural Foundation is now a modern heritage building that will once again celebrate all forms of culture and regain its status as the cultural heart of Abu Dhabi.” Expressing his happiness on the reopening of the Cultural Foundation, His Excellency Saif Saeed Ghobash, Undersecretary, DCT Abu Dhabi, said, “We are incredibly excited that the Cultural Foundation is reopening its doors to once again become a platform for the UAE creative scene. With this inaugural exhibition, we celebrate this beloved institution that has launched many nascent careers. With the December 7 reopening, we are once again able to widen the horizons for cultural exchange, as the Cultural Foundation’s programmes, grants and public engagement will give voice to a new generation of artists and innovators.”

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced that the much-anticipated grand opening of Al Hosn, will take place on December 7, 2018. Al Hosn is the city’s original urban block and will comprise four interrelated components: the historic Qasr Al Hosn Fort, the Cultural Foundation, the National Consultative Council building, and the House of Artisans. The official launch will be a celebration of Abu Dhabi’s rich history and culture, with days of public programming to mark the occasion. The newly renovated premises of the Cultural Foundation will host a diverse visual and performing arts programme, alongside the opening of the first children’s library of its kind. To mark the occasion of its reopening in December, the Foundation’s Visual Arts Centre will present a landmark exhibition which will focus on the building’s history as a beacon for local artists. Cultural Foundation will re-open in phases with December 7 allowing access to the Visual Arts Centre, which will feature exhibition halls and art studios. The two remaining components – a theatre and the Children’s Library – will open in 2019. HE Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman, DCT Abu Dhabi, said, “Qasr Al Hosn retraces the history of the city of Abu Dhabi. It stands as a constant in our evolving city. It is a testament to the heart and spirit of our people and the repository of our collective memories, and its reopening is a key moment for both the citizens of Abu Dhabi and the wider UAE. In addition, we are thrilled to reopen the Cultural Foundation, which has always played an integral role in the cultural scene of Abu Dhabi, the UAE and …