His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, participated in a discussion on the historical significance of Middle Eastern cities in advancing human progress. The event took place at the Za’abeel Majlis and was attended by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President of Dubai Civil Aviation Authority, Chairman of Dubai Airports, and Chairman and Chief Executive of Emirates Airline and Group.
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Reclaiming the role: Key factors for Middle Eastern cities
The talk was delivered by Dr. Roy Casagranda, an esteemed Middle East expert and professor of Government at Austin Community College (ACC) in the USA. Ministers and other dignitaries were also present, and the focus of the discussion was on the role of Middle Eastern cities throughout history in shaping civilization, driving innovation, and facilitating global commerce as important nodes in trade routes. Dr. Casagranda acknowledged that while the influence of Middle Eastern cities has diminished in the past three centuries, Dubai has emerged as a new center for growth, generating innovation and ideas that are shaping the future of the world.
Additionally, Dr. Casagranda underlined the key factors for Middle Eastern cities to reclaim their role in driving human development, including education, innovation, and nurturing talent. He highlighted the importance of creative problem-solving and the government’s responsibility in creating a supportive environment for social progress. Dubai was presented as a prime example of these principles in action, showcasing its commitment to generating new ideas through collaboration between the government, private sector, and the community.
Recognizing volunteer efforts
Furthermore, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed met with a group of volunteers participating in the ‘Day for Dubai’ initiative, which encourages people in Dubai to dedicate one day of their year to assisting those in need. Dherar Belhoul Al Falasi, the Executive Director of the Watani Al Emarat Foundation of the UAE, was present during the meeting. Moreover, Sheikh Hamdan commended the efforts of the volunteers and their contributions, including their role in mitigating the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and their successful organization of the UN climate conference COP28 in Dubai. Al Falasi expressed gratitude to Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed for promoting volunteerism and fostering community partnerships.
