Sheikh Hamdan hails Alserkal Avenue’s role as an “influential creative platform”

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has praised Alserkal Avenue’s contribution in enriching Dubai’s cultural and creative ecosystem, and fostering emerging talent.

Sheikh Hamdan said this after a visit to the emirate’s much-loved art and cultural place. His Highness was briefed on how these institutions help strengthen key sectors and raise the profile of the nation’s cultural heritage.

Sheikh Hamdan expressed his appreciation for the district’s role in reinforcing Dubai’s position as a leading destination for the creative industries and a global hub for arts and culture, and said that “Alserkal Avenue has grown into one of the emirate’s most influential creative platforms, a space where talent converges, ideas take shape, and innovation thrives”.

Sheikh Hamdan toured Concrete, a 1,250-square-metre multi-disciplinary space for cultural events. The venue, which became the first in Dubai to be shortlisted for the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2017, features a flexible design symbolising the harmony among diverse cultural influences across the community.

Sheikh Hamdan also visited Fiker Institute, an inter-disciplinary think-tank fostering dialogue on global governance, foreign policy, and culture, and explored its library, which is home to more than 15,000 curated titles in Arabic and English.

Cinema Akil, an independent platform launched in 2014 to bring global films to UAE audiences, was also in His Highness’ itinerary. Since opening its first permanent location in Al Quoz, Cinema Akil has become the GCC’s first arthouse cinema, spotlighting filmmakers across eras and genres.

Sheikh Hamdan concluded his tour at The Third Line, a Dubai gallery founded in 2005 that champions contemporary artists from the region. The gallery hosts exhibitions, artist talks, and publishes art books, providing a platform for both established and emerging talent.

Abdulla Mohammed Al Basti, Secretary General of The Executive Council of Dubai; and Ahmad bin Eisa Alserkal, Chairman of Alserkal Group, accompanied Sheikh Hamdan during the tour.