Celebrated artists from over 35 countries participate in RAKFAF
Alongside Sheikh Saud, high-profile dignitaries from several countries atended the event to celebrate incredible talent from creatives around the world
His Highness Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supremecouncilmemberandrulerofrasalkhaimah, opened the 11th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival (RAKFAF) to the public last night, at the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village,
with the participation of more than 120 local and international artists from over 35 countries under the theme of ‘Nature’.
Remarking on last night’s opening, His Highness Sheikh Saud said, “The arts enhance opportunities for meaningful engagement and communication between communities and nations, instilled with noble values of peace, harmony, and tolerance that drive the development of progressive communities and promote a deep sense of culture and history.”
“We, in Ras Al Khaimah, are deeply proud of our cultureandheritage,andofourprivilegedgeographic position at the confluence of civilizations. We are commited to continuing our support of local artists, to celebrate their creative endeavours that reflect our rich history and culture,” added Sheikh Saud.
The Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah also praised the organisers of the 11th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah
Fine Arts Festival, the annual cultural event and prominent international plaform for cross-cultural exchange between creatives and thought leaders from a range of sectors, which provides an opportunity for artists to display creative works that elevate the social, cultural and economic development of the Emirate.
Alongside Sheikh Saud, high-profile dignitaries fromseveralcountriesatendedtheeventtocelebrate incredible talent from creatives around the world.
In atendance were Nathalie Kennedy, Consulgeneral of the French Republic in Dubai and the Northern Emirates; Lody Embrechts Ambassador of Kingdom of Netherlands to the UAE; Meghan Gregonis, Consul General of the United States in Dubai and the Northern Emirates; Sean Murphy, Charge d’affaires of the US Embassy; Sybille Pfaff, Consul General of Germany in Dubai and the Northern Emirates; Nathalie Kennedy, Consul General of France in Dubai and the Northern Emirates; Byung-jun Moon, Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Dubai; Raziff Aljunied, Consul General of Singapore in Dubai and the Northern Emirates, and Sione Sonata, Minister-counsellor at Embassy of the Kingdom of Tonga.
This year’s RAKFAF will engage the community through diverse cultural and creative experiences. From art to heritage talks, pet-oriented events, each weekend in February will feature thematic programmes, including art workshops, musical performances, film screenings, and much more. The exhibition will remain open until the end of March. The organisers expect over 35,000 visitors from the UAE and around the world to visit RAKFAF in the next two months. All events and exhibitions are free to atend.
Raki Phillips, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), stated, “As one of our beloved historical sites in the Emirate, I am thrilled to see Al Jazeera Al Hamra transformed during the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival. What makes this festival so unique is the depth of talent, art, and creativity that transforms this site and our destination into one that is based on diversity, inclusion and optimism.”
Natasha Ridge, founding Executive Director of the Sheikh Saud Bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, said, “Here at the foundation, we are passionate about driving forward creative and collaborative approaches that elevate the social, cultural, and economic development of Ras Al Khaimah and the United Arab Emirates.
The 2023 RAKFAF reinforces the presence of Ras Al Khaimah at the heart of the UAE’S art and cultural scene. Beyond art, the Festival is also an inspiring and engaging community event with various exciting activities for one and all. This year, we are delighted to host a talented pool of artists, sculptors, photographers, film-makers and poets from across the globe who interpret ‘Nature’ through their own unique perspectives. This provides us with greater opportunities to learn about, and from, each other in order to foster stronger cultural connections between all those who atend and participate.”
The 11th edition of RAKFAF is presented by RAKTDA, supported by partners including Stevin Rock LLC, RAK Ports, RAK Economic Zone, Waldorf Astoria Ras Al Khaimah, VOX Cinemas, RAK Transportation Authority, RAK Hospitality Holding, Accenture Song and Monviso.