Ras Al Khaimah: Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has opened the 11th edition of the Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival (RAKFAF) 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.”
According to the Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, the arts enhance opportunities for meaningful engagement as well as communication between communities and nations, instilling noble values of peace, harmony, and tolerance that drive the development of progressive communities as well as promoting a deep sense of culture and history.
We, in Ras Al Khaimah, are deeply proud of our culture and heritage, and of our privileged geographic position at the confluence of civilizations. We are committed to continuing our support of local artists to celebrate their creative endeavours that reflect our rich history and culture.
Sheikh Saud shared.
RAKFAF 2023 will engage visitors through diverse cultural and creative experiences. Each weekend in February will feature thematic programs, 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 attend.
Mr. Raki Phillips, CEO of the Ras Al Khaimah Tourism Development Authority (RAKTDA), commented that “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.”
Ms. Natasha Ridge, founding Executive Director of the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, remarked that “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.”
According to the Executive Director, the festival is expected to reinforce the presence of Ras Al Khaimah at the heart of the UAE’s art and cultural scene by offering inspiring and engaging community events with various exciting activities for all.
The 11th edition of RAKFAF is presented by RAKTDA and 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.