Culture Summit Abu Dhabi began today in the UAE capital with a diverse programme of keynote speeches, creative talks, panel discussions, and cultural performances. This year’s edition, the sixth one, has attracted participants from 90 countries, all under the theme of ‘A Matter of Time’.
The first day of the Summit focused on exploring how culture contributes to creating collective memories and challenged the traditional linear concept of time.
In his opening remarks, Mohamed Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), emphasized the importance of reflecting on the theme ‘A Matter of Time’. He highlighted the Summit’s role in facilitating discussions and finding solutions for global communities through culture, fostering understanding, respect, and preservation of different cultures.
Al Mubarak also stated, “Culture Summit Abu Dhabi is a platform where voices from all over the world are heard. We are honored to host a diverse group of thinkers, artists, changemakers, and leaders who will contribute to meaningful discussions.” He introduced Adonis, a renowned poet and philosopher, who delivered the Summit’s first keynote speech on the relationship between people, time, and technology.
Emirati singer Hussain Al Jassmi and Egyptian Talk Show host Mona Al Shazly engaged in a conversation about the role of time in an artist’s journey, the UAE’s support for creative individuals, and the impact of artificial intelligence on Cultural and Creative Industries.
Nobel Prize Literature winner Wole Soyinka and Professor Manthia Diawara discussed African culture, identity, and the impact of historical events on ideologies across the continent. Another session delved into the concept of time from the perspective of First People’s communities, challenging Western notions and emphasizing collective memories and living knowledge.
Culture Summit Abu Dhabi, running until 5th March, is organized by DCT Abu Dhabi in collaboration with global partners such as UNESCO, Economist Impact, and Google, among others, bringing expertise from various fields to the event.
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