The Sultan bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation concluded its 2025 cultural program with a symposium titled "The Cultural Diplomacy of the UAE: A Soft Power that Transcends Borders." The event featured Dr. Yousuf Al-Hassan, Bader Al-Budoor, Dr. Abdulaziz Al-Musallam, and was moderated by Dr. Suleiman Al-Jasim, Vice-Chairman of the Foundation's Board of Trustees. It was attended by an elite group of intellectuals and figures interested in cultural and diplomatic affairs. In his opening remarks, Al-Jasim noted that culture has become a strategic tool in building international relations and enhancing the image of nations, and that soft power today represents an extension of modern diplomacy. The UAE has successfully leveraged it within its vision for civilizational communication and openness to the world. Subsequently, Al-Hassan provided an overview of the concept of soft power and the evolution of cultural diplomacy, emphasizing that the idea of soft power emerged in the late 20th century with the development of international relations and the need for new, more effective tools to engage with peoples. He stated that soft power is based on persuasion and attraction and requires time and effort to build and consolidate. Concluding his speech, Al-Hassan said that the UAE state realized the importance of this approach early on, adopting cultural diplomacy as a means to strengthen its relations with the world on the basis of mutual understanding and respect, through a realistic and moderate vision that made culture a space for dialogue and cooperation. In turn, Al-Budoor discussed several practical models that embody the UAE's soft power based on his diplomatic experience, explaining that the UAE has supported cultural institutions worldwide and launched initiatives to support artists and creators in their home countries, which has enhanced its cultural presence abroad. He mentioned that since the union's establishment, the UAE has been committed to cultural openness, presenting the Emirati intellectual and writer to the world through local cultural magazines and pages that played a significant role in introducing Emirati creativity. Al-Budoor highlighted that these cumulative efforts have laid the foundations of a global cultural bridge, making the UAE a platform for cultural and civilizational exchange, and cited examples from his diplomatic experience on how to direct diplomatic work towards developing a soft power with a lasting impact on society. In his presentation, Al-Musallam reviewed the experience of the Emirate of Sharjah in consolidating the UAE's cultural diplomacy, praising the pioneering role of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, in establishing a comprehensive cultural policy that made culture a cornerstone in building the state's soft power.
