The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region has firmly established itself as a global hub for arts, culture, and entertainment, reshaping the landscape of cultural diplomacy. By championing creativity, innovation, and cross-cultural exchange, these initiatives are not only fostering greater cultural understanding but also driving significant economic growth and social progress. A number of high-impact initiatives have garnered global recognition, paving the way for a brighter and more connected future.
The UAE’s Cultural Footprint
Art Dubai, the region’s most prominent art fair, has been instrumental in elevating Middle Eastern artists to global prominence. By uniting leading galleries, emerging talents, curators, and global thought leaders, Art Dubai has cultivated a vibrant and dynamic art ecosystem. Each year, the event brings together over 120 artists from 40 countries, facilitating discussions on creative trends and fostering innovative collaborations.
Beyond Art Dubai, other platforms are advancing the UAE’s creative economy. Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue has solidified its reputation as an artistic hub, encouraging critical thinking and cross-cultural connections. Partnerships with global institutions such as the Victoria and Albert Museum (London), The Peggy Guggenheim Collection (Venice), Delfina Foundation, and the Dhaka Art Summit enrich the region’s cultural scene.
The Alserkal Arts Foundation supports emerging talent through learning programs, on-site residencies, and grants, while its community includes art galleries, artisanal spaces, music, design, and performing arts initiatives.
The UAE’s commitment to empowering the creative community extends to landmark institutions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the curated Sharjah Biennial, and the Jameel Arts Center, helping strengthen the country’s role as a cultural hub. The Saadiyat Cultural District in Abu Dhabi, soon to host the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, further underscores this commitment. The UAE also holds the distinction of being the first GCC country to participate in the prestigious Venice Biennale, a globally celebrated art exhibition.
Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Renaissance
Saudi Arabia has made remarkable strides in advancing arts, culture, and entertainment. AlUla, often referred to as the world’s largest outdoor museum, is renowned for its UNESCO World Heritage sites and serves as a cultural and entertainment destination. It has hosted fashion shows by Dolce & Gabbana, concerts by Alicia Keys, Andrea Bocelli, and James Blunt, and art installations. AlUla has also become a prime filming location for Hollywood productions such as Kandahar (starring Gerard Butler) and Cherry (starring Tom Holland), thanks to initiatives spearheaded by the Saudi Film Commission.
The Islamic Arts Biennale has grown into a global cultural touchstone, involving over 30 institutions across four continents and featuring thought leaders worldwide. Meanwhile, the Red Sea International Film Festival celebrates global cinema, drawing A-list celebrities like Johnny Depp, Will Smith, and Sharon Stone alongside regional creatives for screenings, concerts, and storytelling events.
Jeddah’s Hayy Jameel continues to elevate the region’s cultural offerings with innovative programming that nurtures local talent and fosters global collaboration.
The Economic Ripple Effect of Art and Entertainment
Art and entertainment are not only cultural phenomena but also powerful economic engines that drive cultural exchange, inspire creativity, and strengthen ties between diverse communities. For example, Taylor Swift’s Eras Tour has exemplified the synergy between cultural influence and economic impact, with “Swiftonomics” generating nearly US$5 billion in the U.S. alone. Globally, her tour has spurred regional economies by boosting tourism, transportation, and hospitality sectors, with Singapore alone seeing a GDP boost of US$260–375 million.
Similarly, the UAE and Saudi Arabia have reaped the economic benefits of hosting global performers. Coldplay’s concert announcements in the UAE resulted in a surge of hotel bookings and flight reservations. Riyadh’s recent performances by artists like Nicki Minaj, Eminem, and Calvin Harris have drawn audiences from across the region, providing a significant boost to the hospitality and tourism industries.
Expo 2020 Dubai stands as a testament to the GCC’s vision for fostering global connections through culture. Welcoming over 24 million visitors from 190 countries, the event is projected to contribute US$42.2 billion to the UAE’s economy by 2042, according to EY. This legacy has cemented the UAE’s place on the global cultural map. All eyes now turn to Riyadh Expo 2030, which will showcase the theme “The Era of Change: Together for a Foresighted Tomorrow.”
Shaping a Collaborative and Creative Future
The GCC’s forward-thinking approach is shaping a future where creativity flourishes, economies thrive, and global communities are united through cultural dialogue and innovation. By fostering a vision of inclusivity and progress, the region is charting a path toward a more inspiring and humane future for all.
