Cultural relations constitute an important pillar of the UAE–Greece Strategic Partnership. In recent years, cooperation in the fields of culture, heritage, arts, and literature has continued to expand, reflecting the strong historical ties between the two countries and their shared commitment to promoting intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding. Through a range of joint initiatives and cultural exchanges, both countries have strengthened people-to-people connections and enhanced cooperation in preserving and promoting their rich cultural heritage.
Key Milestones in Cultural Cooperation
- Sharjah as Guest of Honour at the Thessaloniki International Book Fair (2024): In 2024, the Emirate of Sharjah was selected as Guest of Honour at the Thessaloniki International Book Fair, marking an important milestone in the UAE’s cultural engagement with Greece. The participation strengthened the presence of Emirati and Arab culture in Greece and supported cooperation in the fields of publishing, translation, literature, and cultural dialogue between the Arab and European worlds.
- United Arab Emirates as Guest of Honour at the Thessaloniki International Fair (2022): In 2022, the United Arab Emirates became the first Arab country to be designated Guest of Honour at the Thessaloniki International Fair. The participation provided a comprehensive showcase of the UAE’s cultural heritage, development achievements, and national identity, attracting considerable interest from Greek and international audiences.
- UAE–Greece Cultural Week (Athens, 2018): The first UAE–Greece Cultural Week, held in Athens in 2018, marked a significant milestone in bilateral cultural relations. Organized by the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Greece in cooperation with Zayed University, the Greek Ministry of Digital Policy, Telecommunications and Media, and the National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, the event featured exhibitions showcasing Emirati heritage and traditional social life, a joint Emirati–Greek art exhibition, academic and cultural discussions, as well as the first screening of the Emirati film Shabab Sheyab in Greek cinemas. Traditional Emirati folk performances were also presented, contributing to greater cultural exchange and public engagement.
In this context, the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in Athens continues to support joint cultural initiatives and expand cooperation between cultural and academic institutions in both countries, in line with the objectives of the UAE–Greece Strategic Partnership and the shared aspiration to further strengthen the bonds of friendship, cultural exchange, and mutual understanding between the two peoples.
