Under the visionary guidance of her father, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai has built a global reputation not only as a hub of business, innovation, and advanced infrastructure, but also as a flourishing center for culture and creativity. At the heart of this cultural momentum stands Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum—Chairperson of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority since September 2019—whose leadership has been instrumental in positioning Dubai as one of the world’s most dynamic creative capitals.
Sheikha Latifa believes that culture is the soul of cities—its memory, its collective voice, and the bridge between heritage and future. “Dubai’s story has always resonated deeply with me,” she says. “This city was once a dream shaped by the vision of its leaders and the values of its people. Culture remains our living memory and our global language, connecting generations and reflecting our authentic identity.”
From Dubai’s museums and heritage quarters to its creative districts and international festivals, Sheikha Latifa sees the city as a canvas of imagination and possibility. She highlights Dubai’s unique ecosystem where artists, designers, musicians, and innovators converge to create projects that enrich the city’s cultural life and reinforce its values of excellence, openness, and innovation. Her clear conviction: “The creative economy is not merely a goal but a reflection of who we are—a society driven by imagination and the ambition to shape tomorrow.”
A Collaborative Cultural Vision
Dubai’s cultural renaissance is deeply rooted in collaboration. Sheikha Latifa emphasizes that building a thriving cultural landscape is a collective endeavor, strengthened by partnerships across government, private institutions, cultural organizations, and Dubai’s multicultural community. For her, every artist—emerging or established—adds an essential layer to Dubai’s cultural mosaic.
This vision materialized powerfully during the 27th ICOM General Conference, held from 11–17 November at Dubai World Trade Centre—the largest global museum gathering ever hosted in the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. With more than 4,500 participants from 130 countries, the event marked a historic moment for Dubai. Attended by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikha Latifa herself, the opening ceremony symbolized the city’s rising influence in the international cultural arena.
Sheikha Latifa described the moment as “a milestone that immortalizes our identity and crowns decades of visionary ambition,” while Sheikh Hamdan affirmed Dubai’s commitment to shaping the future of museums and cultural exchange.
Championing Creativity Across Sectors
Sheikha Latifa’s leadership extends across multiple creative disciplines—from music and design to heritage preservation and digital storytelling.
During a meeting with leading figures in the music sector, she emphasized that every melody and artistic voice contributes to building a sustainable, innovative musical landscape in Dubai. The city’s multicultural fabric, she noted, offers a fertile ground for developing a global, future-oriented music ecosystem.
At the 11th edition of Dubai Design Week, she highlighted design as a tool for innovation and connection—a medium that brings communities closer and reshapes the way people interact with their environment.
Likewise, her engagement with artisans and creative entrepreneurs reflects her commitment to establishing Dubai as a fertile environment for small and emerging creative businesses, ensuring that talent continues to find opportunities and support.
A Cultural Icon and Advocate for Talent
Across the UAE and the Gulf, Sheikha Latifa is admired as a cultured leader and steadfast supporter of the arts. Her influence extends beyond cultural strategy to community development, education, and youth empowerment.
As Chairperson of the Cultural Identity and Media Leadership Council, she reaffirms that culture and media are powerful tools for shaping collective identity, inspiring societies, and reinforcing national pride.
She also celebrates the legacy of Arab scientists and innovators, emphasizing the importance of continuous investment in research, knowledge, and scientific exploration. During the Arab Awards Forum hosted by the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Award, she underlined Dubai’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based society and honoring the intellectual achievements of the Arab world.
Education, Early Passions, and Rise to Leadership
Born on 16 June 1983, Sheikha Latifa grew up immersed in literature, art, photography, and equestrian traditions. Her early interests foreshadowed her future role in the cultural sphere. She holds an Executive MBA with honors and a bachelor’s degree in Business Sciences with a specialization in marketing from Zayed University.
Her practical training at Dubai Holding further prepared her for leadership, culminating in her appointment as Chairperson of Dubai Culture in 2019—a turning point that initiated a new era of cultural growth for the emirate.
Sheikha Latifa also champions emerging talent through initiatives like the National Program for Talent Development, and she serves as Honorary President of the Zayed University Alumni Association. Her mission: to mentor young Emirati women and equip them with the skills needed to lead in various fields.
In addition to her responsibilities at Dubai Culture, she is a member of the Dubai Council, Vice Chair of the Emirates Literature Foundation, Chair of the Supreme Committee for Developing Al Quoz Creative Zone, and a member of the Mohammed bin Rashid Global Initiatives Board of Trustees.
Awards and Cultural Recognition
In 2021, Sheikha Latifa was named “First Arab Lady” by the Arab Women Authority—an honor recognizing her role in transforming Dubai’s cultural landscape. The award highlighted her innovative initiatives and her influence on the Arab world’s artistic and creative sectors.
Following in the Footsteps of Her Father
Sheikha Latifa speaks often of her admiration for her father—the leader whose vision transformed Dubai into a global model of excellence. To her, he represents inspiration, discipline, optimism, and the belief that “impossible is nothing.”
She credits him for instilling the values of innovation, perseverance, and humanitarian leadership that guide her work today. Through her initiatives, she continues to promote Arab creative excellence, celebrating the contributions of thinkers, scientists, and innovators across the region.
A Leader of Cultural Purpose
Managing Dubai’s cultural identity is a strategic mission—one that requires insight, passion, and a deep sense of responsibility. Sheikha Latifa has consistently proven that she embodies these qualities.
Her work demonstrates that culture is more than heritage—it is a living force shaping society, empowering communities, and inspiring generations. Through her leadership, Dubai continues to evolve as a global beacon of creativity, innovation, and cultural harmony.
TunisianMonitorOnline (Douha Essaafi)
