To emphasise its reputation as the new cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi will be represented at the “Biennale di Venezia” from June with its own national pavilion and a special representation. The international art fair that has been held biennially since 1895 offers 28 countries an opportunity to present themselves with pavilions representative of their country or with a special interest exhibition.

In addition to its commitment to Venice, the cultural city of Abu Dhabi continues to place a high value on promoting cultural facilities within the emirate. For example, in March 2009, the third “Art Dubai” art fair opened and, at the same time, the ninth “Sharjah Biennale” in the neighbouring emirate, which focuses on regional artists and projects and, according to the head curator, Jack Persekian, is intended to improve their lives and effectiveness.

If nothing else, with the opening of four impressive museums on Saadiyat Island in 2012, the United Emirates are laying claim to being the future cultural centre of the Menasa region.