Page 174 - UAE Ministry of Culture PR REPORT - SEPTEMBER 2025

Iraq to preserve, protect, and restore their human history. Protecting heritage is a moral and
humanitarian responsibility toward future generations.”

Al Kaabi emphasised that, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al
Nahyan, UAE President, the UAE has regarded the reconstruction of Mosul as a shared international
responsibility. She highlighted that the UAE worked with partners in Iraq and UNESCO to make this
project a model of international cooperation in safeguarding human heritage.

Al Kaabi added: “Mosul is both a memory and a mirror of the lives and identity of its people. The
revival of its cultural sites means the city itself has come alive again, and its people have regained
confidence in their future. When the minaret rose again, it was not merely an architectural
achievement, but a declaration that Mosul’s voice is stronger than all those who sought to silence
it. It is a symbol of the will to live and a message of hope to its people and to the entire world that
Mosul will remain a city of civilization and coexistence.”

Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture, reaffirmed the UAE’s commitment to
preserving cultural heritage in conflict-affected areas and highlighted its conviction in the role of
culture in fostering coexistence and supporting community recovery. His Excellency noted that the
UAE’s strategic partnership with UNESCO reflects its vision of supporting international efforts
aimed at safeguarding human heritage and strengthening cultural dialogue among nations.

Sheikh Salem said: “The ‘Revive the Spirit of Mosul’ project is a leading model of international
cooperation. It not only involved the reconstruction of historic landmarks but also included training
and educational programs that helped build and empower the local community.”

He noted that the UAE allocated $50.4 million for the reconstruction of Mosul and the restoration of
its heritage landmarks and historic urban fabric, with $48.2 million contributed by the European
Union, in addition to support from the international community. These efforts reflect a shared
commitment by the international community to safeguard heritage and strengthen cultural ties.
The ceremony was attended by Abdulla Matar Al Mazrouei, UAE Ambassador to the Republic of
Iraq; Ali Al Haj, UAE Permanent Delegate to UNESCO; Khaled Al Nuaimi, Director of the Federal
Youth Authority; and several senior officials.

https://www.wam.ae/en/article/bli8fty-uae-unesco-partner-reconstruct-mosuls-cultural