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2/28/24, 3:37 PM Sheikh Hamdan highlights Dubai's role in advancing human progress at Middle Eastern cities talk
Sheikh Hamdan highlights Dubai’s role in advancing human progress at Middle Eastern cities talk
Volunteers honored by Sheikh Hamdan for dedication to 'Day for Dubai' initiative

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed attends talk on Middle Eastern cities’ contributions to advancing human progress. (Photo Credit: WAM)
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.
Read more: Dubai’s tourism sector key to economic expansion, says Sheikh Mohammed
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.

Sheikh Hamdan’s meeting with volunteers (Photo Credit: WAM)

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