Latest news with #Badri
Gulf Today
22-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
UAE's architectural vision displayed at Osaka Expo
The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has wrapped up the 'Pillars of Arish: Architecture in Transition' symposium, held at Expo 2025 Osaka–Kansai, in Japan. Organised in partnership with the UAE Pavilion at Expo 2025 and supported by the Dubai Cultural Grant Programme, an initiative under Dubai's Quality of Life Strategy, the event is part of the Authority's broader mission to strengthen the cultural and creative sector, and enhance the country's global appeal. Aligned with the UAE Pavilion's theme, 'From Earth to Ether,' which sets out the UAE's vision for humanity's future, the first-of-its-kind curated symposium explored architecture in the UAE, focusing on local design practices, material innovation, and regional exchange between the UAE, Japan and other nations. Discussions also addressed the significance of traditional knowledge in shaping the urban landscape, with particular emphasis on Arish structures and context-sensitive solutions. In her opening remarks, Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, described the UAE Pavilion as a powerful reflection of the country's ambition and enduring commitment to heritage as a driver of innovation. She noted how this spirit comes to life through the pavilion's layout, which integrates local practices, such as using arish (palm fronds), into a contemporary setting. She said: 'By organising the symposium at Expo 2025, our goal was to highlight Emirati cultural identity and demonstrate Dubai's vibrant and supportive ecosystem for the cultural and creative industries and emerging entrepreneurs. The event also elevated local talent globally by spotlighting their ideas and ambitious visions that advance the design and architecture sector forward.' Badri added: 'At Dubai Culture, we spare no efforts to build bridges with other communities, expanding opportunities for global cultural exchange and supporting artists, designers, and business owners with resources to live, work, create and thrive. We are proud to have organised the symposium in Japan, a country whose creative legacy has shaped international practice and exemplifies sustainability, resilience, and cultural depth.' Khulood Khoory, Director of the Projects and Events Department at Dubai Culture, underscored the objectives of the Dubai Cultural Grant Programme and its impact in nurturing the arts ecosystem. She noted that more than Dhs180 million in grants will be provided over a 10-year period, supporting disciplines ranging from visual and fine arts to museology. The symposium was curated by Salem AlSuwaidi, Founder of SWALIF Collective and Co-founder of MamarLab, and Rashed AlMulla, Founder of MABNAI and Co-founder of MamarLab. It featured ten talks and panels, spanning heritage, sustainability, and design. Notable sessions included 'Cultural Convergence: The Impact of Japanese Architecture on Gulf Regional Identity,' exploring ARCHIDENTITY's research on the evolution of Japanese modernism from the 1940s to the 1970s and its influence on Middle Eastern aesthetics. 'Connecting Threads: Modern Heritage's Connection to the Vernacular and Contemporary,' examined how modern buildings in the UAE draw inspiration from vernacular traditions. The session, 'Shaping a Practice: Challenges & Opportunities in Architectural Enterprises,' shed light on the UAE's dynamic landscape and the strategies deployed by architects to establish and sustain resilient design studios amidst market pressures, evolving urban agendas, and increasing client expectations. 'Harnessing a Site: How to Navigate through Constructing in a Site-sensitive Context' offered insights into how architectural practice can be enriched by grounding aesthetics in contextual analysis, material discipline, and cultural and environmental narratives. Meanwhile, 'UAE Design Education: Pedagogies in Design Learning' explored how initiatives, such as LIMASS, led by Lina Ahmad and Marco Sosa at Zayed University, are reshaping sustainability using traditional systems and locally sourced resources. The symposium also included the session 'East-To-East: Japanese Architecture in Emirati Contexts,' which positioned architecture as a medium for cultural synergy, bringing together the works of Takehashi Muruyama with those of Emirati architects Ahmed Bukhash and Ahmed Al Ali to reflect on how Japanese principles influence projects in the UAE. 'From Arish to Villas' traced the transformation of housing in the UAE, from palm-frond arish homes to modern villas, illustrating how shifts in cultural values, materials used, and environmental adaptation have changed the way people build. The session 'Falaj: Of Water Comes Life' highlighted the ingenious design and community-based management of the aflaj irrigation systems, positioning them as environmentally friendly solutions that have supported agriculture and settlement across the region for centuries.
Al Bawaba
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Bawaba
Hala Badri Visits Shifting Gazes Exhibition
Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), has visited 'Shifting Gazes: Women Through Middle Eastern Eyes' at The Farjam Foundation in DIFC Gate Avenue. The exhibition, running until 15 October, showcases a curated selection of contemporary artworks. Badri's attendance reflects Dubai Culture's ongoing efforts to strengthen partnerships with entities supporting Dubai's cultural and creative industries. It also underscores the Authority's commitment to empowering creative talent and encouraging their contribution to the sector, further solidifying Dubai's position as a hub for the creative economy. During the visit, Hala Badri toured the exhibition, which features 27 carefully selected contemporary artworks from The Farjam Foundation's collection by regional artists. The works, curated by Amir Arvand, explore how Middle Eastern artists have depicted women over the past eight decades, presented across four thematic sections: Identity and Visibility; Personal and Emotional Landscapes; Tradition, Modernity, and Cultural Memory; and Social Commentary and Critique. The exhibition invites audiences to engage in a critical dialogue through art, celebrating the diversity of voices that shape the cultural fabric of the Middle East. Badri praised the quality of the featured artworks and their ability to portray women within the ever-evolving visual landscape of the region, as well as their role in driving social and cultural transformation. She stressed that each piece represents an exceptional and inspiring artistic journey, highlighting the creative energy of regional talent and their unique perspectives, ultimately reflecting the richness and originality of Dubai's and the surrounding area's vibrant art scene.
Al Etihad
18-03-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
UAE's first female music graduate on a mission to take music to the world
19 Mar 2025 00:15 MAYS IBRAHIM (ABU DHABI)From an aspiring young musician dabbling in the piano and flute to a trailblazer in music education, Tala Badri made history as the first female Emirati music musician is the founder and executive director of the Centre for Musical Arts (CMA), a community centre for music education and performance that caters to both children and adults across the journey to this point was shaped by an unwavering promise to give back. At 17, Badri was awarded a scholarship from His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid, who funded her music education in the UK with the promise that she would return to the UAE and apply her knowledge to benefit her community. "That promise really drove me," Badri told Aletihad in a recent interview. The Transformative Power of Music Armed with a second degree in Management and Languages, Badri had initially carved out a successful career in the banking and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) she never lost touch with her musical roots; during her time in the corporate world, Badri continued to teach flute and piano regularly and remained involved in the performing arts community in passion for music took on a new meaning when she saw firsthand the transformative power music had on her autistic daughter."It gave her a voice," Badri turning point inspired Badri to set up a community centre in Dubai in 2006 with a vision to bring music to the people. Today CMA serves over 1,500 students and works with 43 schools across the UAE to further music daughter is currently pursuing a master's in music in the UK, following in her mother's footsteps by becoming the second female Emirati music graduate. Music as a Tool for Empowerment For Badri, music education extends beyond artistic expression -it's a vehicle for empowerment. "Music builds strong character. It gives young people an opportunity to experience the world in a different way," she said. CMA's programs cater to both children and adults with a focus on personal development and mental well-being alongside musical training. Badri believes that music nurtures essential life skills, from organisation and concentration to teamwork and social confidence. "It develops skills that are transferable to every part of life," she said. Over the years, Badri has witnessed a growing appreciation for music in the UAE, fostered by the development of various cultural spaces such as Dubai Opera, Abu Dhabi's cultural district, and Sharjah's Performing Arts Academy. From the UAE to the World CMA's musical education programmes look beyond national borders, encouraging students to connect with peers from different backgrounds."We take our ensembles and our orchestras around the world to perform and connect with musicians from other cultures," Badri international tours, she believes, enable students to grow in confidence and proudly represent the recently participated in the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs (AWE) and the startAD Impact Hub for Emirati Women Achievers (AWE 5.0 x EWA Bootcamp), an initiative designed to equip Emirati women with the skills and networks to scale their businesses AWE. 5.0 x EWA Bootcamp was launched by StartAD, the Abu Dhabi-based global accelerator powered by Tamkeen and anchored at NYU Abu Dhabi (NYUAD), in partnership with the United States Mission to the UAE."I learned a lot about how to expand globally, make connections and improve my pitching skills," Badri said."The mentorship and support I received were invaluable in helping me gain confidence and clarity about how to take CMA to the next level." Looking ahead, Badri remains committed to expanding access to music education and nurturing the next generation of musicians in the UAE.
Trade Arabia
16-03-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Dubai Culture, Municipality to transform public spaces into art
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai Municipality to enrich Dubai's visual identity and enhance artistic experiences in public spaces and residential neighbourhoods. This aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to achieve sustainable urban development centred around people. The agreement reflects Dubai Culture's social and cultural responsibilities to elevate the quality of life in the emirate and reinforce its position as a global destination for living, working, and leisure, as well as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. The MoU underscores the shared commitment of Dubai Culture and Dubai Municipality to expanding cooperation, strengthening communication channels, and exchanging best practices and experiences in identifying suitable locations for displaying artworks and artistic installations. This initiative will contribute to transforming Dubai into an open-air global art gallery accessible to all. Under the agreement, Dubai Culture will determine the number of artworks and installations to be implemented annually within a set timeframe, aligning with the city's beautification plan. Meanwhile, Dubai Municipality will be responsible for selecting proposed showcasing sites and coordinating with government and private entities to obtain the necessary approvals and permits for executing public art projects. Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, affirmed the importance of the partnership between Dubai Culture and Dubai Municipality in transforming Dubai's streets and public squares into an open art museum, saying: 'Through our Public Art Strategy, we seek to foster a culture of innovation, support Dubai's creative economy, empower artists by expanding their presence in the local art scene, and encourage them to contribute to greater artistic appreciation in the emirate. These spaces will be enriched with distinctive artworks that enhance the local art scene and reflect the emirate's unique creative identity.' Badri also commended Dubai Municipality for its efforts in supporting the Dubai Public Art Strategy and raising the city's appeal through various projects across Dubai's streets and residential areas. Marwan bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, highlighted the significance of the partnership in enhancing Dubai's aesthetic appeal and cultural vibrancy, stating: 'This agreement marks a key step in our efforts to integrate art and urban development, ensuring that Dubai remains a city of creativity, innovation, and cultural expression.'
Gulf Today
13-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Dubai to transform its public spaces into artistic landmarks
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Dubai Municipality to enrich Dubai's visual identity and enhance artistic experiences in public spaces and residential neighbourhoods. This aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to achieve sustainable urban development centred around people. The agreement reflects Dubai Culture's social and cultural responsibilities to elevate the quality of life in the emirate and reinforce its position as a global destination for living, working, and leisure, as well as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. The MoU underscores the shared commitment of Dubai Culture and Dubai Municipality to expanding cooperation, strengthening communication channels, and exchanging best practices and experiences in identifying suitable locations for displaying artworks and artistic installations. This initiative will contribute to transforming Dubai into an open-air global art gallery accessible to all. Under the agreement, Dubai Culture will determine the number of artworks and installations to be implemented annually within a set timeframe, aligning with the city's beautification plan. Meanwhile, Dubai Municipality will be responsible for selecting proposed showcasing sites and coordinating with government and private entities to obtain the necessary approvals and permits for executing public art projects. Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, affirmed the importance of the partnership between Dubai Culture and Dubai Municipality in transforming Dubai's streets and public squares into an open art museum, saying: "Through our Public Art Strategy, we seek to foster a culture of innovation, support Dubai's creative economy, empower artists by expanding their presence in the local art scene, and encourage them to contribute to greater artistic appreciation in the emirate. These spaces will be enriched with distinctive artworks that enhance the local art scene and reflect the emirate's unique creative identity.' Badri also commended Dubai Municipality for its efforts in supporting the Dubai Public Art Strategy and raising the city's appeal through various projects across Dubai's streets and residential areas. Eng. Marwan Ahmed Bin Ghalita, Acting Director General of Dubai Municipality, highlighted the significance of the partnership in enhancing Dubai's aesthetic appeal and cultural vibrancy, stating: "This agreement marks a key step in our efforts to integrate art and urban development, ensuring that Dubai remains a city of creativity, innovation, and cultural expression.' He added: "Through this collaboration, we aim to transform public spaces and residential areas into dynamic artistic landmarks that reflect Dubai's unique identity and enrich the experiences of residents and visitors alike. By seamlessly integrating artistic elements with urban beautification projects, we are reinforcing Dubai's position as a global model for sustainable and human-centred urban design, in line with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.'
