Multiculturalism and shared political vision have been hailed as key driving forces between the establishment and growth of the creative industries in the UAE.
Speaking at a panel discussion in London, Cyril Zammit, fair director of Dubai Design Week and Design Days Dubai, claimed that state support for the arts was an important catalyst for cultural activity.
“A common thread that links creative cities such as London and Dubai is a shared vision between both artists and the authorities,” said Zammit. “People need to feel free and comfortable to create.”
The creative industries have received particularly strong support over recent months, with the public launch of D3 design district – a new home for Dubai’s creative industries, which will benefit from 100% business ownership models for design entrepreneurs – and event and gallery space Alserkal Avenue, in Al Quoz.
Of Alserkal Avenue creative district he said it is a “perfect mix of political vision and private initiative”.
In Europe, data demonstrates the creative industries represent approximately 8.3 million full time equivalent jobs, or 3.8% of total European workforce, as well as contributions of 6.8% of EU GDP.
More than 100 leading cultural figures attended a vibrant panel discussion on ‘Creativity and City Culture’, which was held at the conclusion of the Shubbak Festival in London. Organised by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority in partnership with Vision magazine and Brownbook, the ‘Dubai Next’ event coincided with London’s biennial festival of contemporary Arab arts and culture, and underlined the importance of Dubai’s creative economy – alongside those of fellow global cities such as London – in boosting liveability and in attracting talent, resources and visitors.
