In a powerful intersection of culture and wellbeing, Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, has witnessed the signing of a strategic memorandum of understanding (MoU) between Dubai Culture and Dubai Health, marking the formal launch of the ‘Art for Good – Health Pillar’ initiative.
The collaboration aims to embed art and creativity into Dubai Health’s facilities and services, reinforcing the emirate’s commitment to holistic care, patient wellbeing, and the broader Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033.
Signed by Her Excellency Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, and Dr. Amer Sharif, CEO of Dubai Health, the MoU establishes a framework to support healing environments through the power of artistic expression. The initiative will engage artists, cultural practitioners, and creatives in transforming clinical spaces into settings that promote emotional resilience and social connection.
“Art has the unique ability to open hearts, foster dialogue, and instil hope. In clinical settings, it becomes a vital tool of emotional support and recovery,” said Hala Badri, reaffirming the city’s human-centred vision guided by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
She added that the initiative also aligns with Dubai Social Agenda 33, promoting health, education, family cohesion, and societal wellbeing while expanding opportunities for the local creative community.
Healing Through Creativity
Dr. Amer Sharif echoed this sentiment, highlighting that Dubai Health is focused on delivering patient-first, holistic healthcare that goes beyond clinical care.
“This initiative is a step towards integrating art into care settings, enhancing the patient experience in line with the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy,” he said. “We believe healing starts with the environment. Through this partnership, we’re building compassionate, uplifting spaces that reflect our commitment to the community’s overall wellbeing.”
The partnership sets a new benchmark for cross-sector collaboration, uniting healthcare and culture in service of a more vibrant, emotionally attuned society.
In the coming months, the two entities will launch creative programmes, conduct impact assessments, and engage the public and artistic community to shape a new narrative for healing through art in Dubai.
(With input from Dubai Media Office)
