Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, DCT, has held a roundtable meeting with a group of leading Emirati visual artists at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi.

In discussion with the group of artists who represent different generations and creative mediums, Al Mubarak highlighted the department’s mission and mandate to support the creative industries in Abu Dhabi and to provide artists with opportunities for growth and development.

"Looking at the variety of exhibitions and creative events taking place continuously across the emirate, it is easy to see that the visual arts are gaining momentum in the UAE," said Al Mubarak, adding, "The department is delighted to be able to support and contribute to the innovative creative output that is allowing these artists to develop their skills, and establish sustainable artistic practice."

The roundtable meeting was also attended by Saif Saeed Ghobash, DCT Director-General, Emirati visual artists Abdul Qader Al Rais, Dr. Najat Maki, Abdul Rahim Salem, Matar Bin Lahej, Azza Al Qubaisi, Mohammed Al Astad, Dr. Mohamed Yousef, Mohammed Mandi, Mona Al Khaja, Noura Al Hashemi, Salama Al Mazrouei, Salma Al Marri, Abdulrahman Zainal, Dr. Karima Al Shomali, and Maryam Al Mazroui.