In a momentous meeting, Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, celebrated the transformative contributions of two leading figures in Arab architecture and art: Jordanian architect Sahel Al Hayari and Iraqi artist Dia Al-Azzawi. The two were recipients of the prestigious 2024 Arab Great Minds Awards in Architecture and Design, and Literature and Arts, respectively.
The gathering, which took place during the awards ceremony, underscored the significance of the Great Arab Minds Awards—an initiative launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to honor extraordinary Arab talents in six key fields: natural sciences, engineering, medicine, architecture, economics, and literature. The initiative not only celebrates the exceptional achievements of Arab thought leaders but also aims to inspire future generations by spotlighting innovative ideas that elevate the Arab region’s global standing in knowledge, science, and culture.
Her Highness Sheikha Latifa emphasized that the awards send a powerful message of appreciation to the creative community, which she described as an essential part of the Arab world’s cultural fabric. She commended the role of design, literature, and the arts in fostering the region’s cultural economy, noting their importance as drivers of progress and innovation.
“Investing in people is the cornerstone of development,” Her Highness said, highlighting how these awards align with Dubai’s commitment to nurturing talent and celebrating intellectual achievements that shape the future. The recognition of Al Hayari and Al-Azzawi, she noted, exemplifies how Arab creatives are pushing the boundaries of culture while remaining deeply connected to their heritage.
Sahel Al Hayari’s work is recognized for seamlessly blending traditional architecture with modern techniques. His approach, which honors the cultural and historical essence of the region while introducing innovative design concepts, has earned him international acclaim. Projects such as the Jordanian Archaeological Museum and Darat Al Funun exhibition stand as testaments to his vision of integrating authenticity with contemporary creativity.
Meanwhile, Dia Al-Azzawi, a key figure in contemporary Arab art, has made lasting contributions to both regional and global artistic landscapes. His groundbreaking ‘linear compositions’—which merge abstraction with cultural symbolism—have reshaped the artistic identity of the Arab world. His work, spanning painting, sculpture, and graphic arts, explores profound human themes while offering a unique reinterpretation of Arab heritage.
Her Highness’s meeting with these trailblazers, along with a distinguished group of experts and creatives, celebrated not only their individual achievements but also the collective potential of the Arab region to lead in the global cultural sphere. As these pioneers continue to influence architecture and art, the Great Arab Minds Awards stand as a reminder of the transformative power of creative vision in shaping a brighter, more innovative future for the Arab world.
