Sheikha Latifa Meets African Leaders to Boost Cultural Ties

H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, met a high-level delegation of Africa’s leading business and philanthropic figures to explore new opportunities for cooperation. The discussion focused on expanding work in culture, creativity and social development, while also strengthening long-term cultural and economic ties between the UAE and Africa. Both sides exchanged ideas on how to support innovative and impact-driven initiatives across different regions.

Sheikha Latifa welcomed the delegation led by Badr Jafar, Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Business and Philanthropy. She stressed the importance of building meaningful global partnerships with leaders shaping the future of cultural and economic progress. She also highlighted Dubai’s growing status as a global hub for creativity and innovation, where knowledge exchange and cross-regional collaboration continue to flourish. According to her, Dubai is committed to supporting talent, encouraging cultural growth and driving human development in partnership with like-minded regions.

Sheikha Latifa was joined by senior officials including Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers; Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation; and Mansoor Hussain Lootah, CEO of the Corporate Enablement Sector and Chief AI Officer at Dubai Culture. Their presence reflected Dubai’s strong dedication to advancing cultural partnerships and promoting shared development goals. The meeting also reinforced the emirate’s role as a global crossroads for culture and creativity, where diverse ideas and experiences come together to shape the future.

During the meeting, Sheikha Latifa expressed appreciation for the African delegation’s achievements and contributions across various sectors. She noted the deep historical ties and shared values between the UAE and African nations, which continue to support mutual understanding and long-term cooperation. The delegation included well-known business and philanthropic leaders such as Abdul Samad Rabiu, Aliko Dangote, Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich Tein, Humphrey Kariuki, Johann Rupert, Mohammad Dewji, Sir Mo Ibrahim, Naguib Sawiris, Dr. Patrice Motsepe, Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe, Strive Masiyiwa, Tsitsi Masiyiwa and Tony Elumelu.

Their participation showcased Africa’s strong commitment to cultural development, social progress and economic empowerment. The meeting highlighted how Dubai and African partners can work together to create new opportunities, support shared goals and advance global cooperation in culture, creativity and philanthropy. The discussions marked another step in strengthening relations and building a future focused on innovation, talent development and sustainable cultural partnerships.