Culture, happiness and a Disney for Arabia: 4 key insights from Gulf News’ interview with Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak

In a recent interview with Gulf News editor-in-chief Mark Thompson, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi, shared insights on how the city continues to invest in growth through arts, sports, and attractions. Here are four key takeaways from the conversation:

1. Culture as a driving force for Abu Dhabi's growth

Al Mubarak emphasized that culture is a crucial aspect of Abu Dhabi's growth, stating that everything they do in the city has a long-term effect on society, both locally and globally. He believes that institutions such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi serve as both cultural safeguarding and educational tools, fostering a sense of shared human story through human interaction.

This approach to culture extends beyond museums, creating opportunities for people to connect and engage with unfamiliar perspectives.

2. Happiness as the true metric of success

While financial metrics like GDP and tourism figures are commonly reported, Al Mubarak argues that happiness should be the primary focus. He believes that creating opportunities for personal and professional success, whether through economic, social, or educational means, is the true measure of a successful initiative. This happiness is reflected in visitor satisfaction rates for cultural sites and libraries, as well as increased attendance at cultural and leisure events.

3. The Arab world's need for a Disney

Al Mubarak believes that the Arab world should have its own Disney theme park, similar to the successful parks in Europe, Asia, and the United States. He envisions the proposed Disney resort in Yas Island as a platform for the region to showcase its diverse cultures and storytelling traditions, while also generating economic benefits. The resort is expected to create around 10,000 jobs and inspire children to explore new career paths and interests.

4. Sport as a catalyst for growth

Al Mubarak highlighted the significant impact of sport in Abu Dhabi's growth story. He points to the growth of Emirati drivers in Formula One, the rise of basketball participation in the UAE, and the integration of Jiu-jitsu in school curricula as examples of sport's positive influence on society. By promoting values such as discipline, teamwork, and resilience, sport contributes to personal development and societal progress, often before medals or tourism revenue are even considered.