The cultural initiatives of the Consulate General of the United Arab Emirates in São Paulo play a central role in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between both countries, bringing together people, institutions, and ideas.
Zayed Sustainability Prize
The UAE's most significant cultural and humanitarian programme offered to Brazil and to the world is the Zayed Sustainability Prize. Founded in 2008 by His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, then Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the prize recognises innovative solutions in the areas of health, food, energy, water, climate action, and global high schools. Since the first awards ceremony in 2009, more than 400 million people have been directly or indirectly impacted by the sustainability solutions and school projects of the 128 winners. Brazil has distinguished itself in this competition over the years, with four Brazilian public schools reaching the finals.
Literature and Publications
The Emirate of Sharjah, internationally recognised as one of the great publishing centres of the Arab world and named a UNESCO World Book Capital, was the guest of honour at the 25th São Paulo International Book Biennial in 2018. On that occasion, approximately 40 books by Emirati authors were translated into Portuguese and launched to the Brazilian public.
In 2019, a collection of short stories by renowned Brazilian authors was translated into Arabic and published, deepening the literary exchange between both cultures.
With the support of the Consulate General, Professor Williander Salomon, a specialist in International Law and Human Rights, published the book "Discover the United Arab Emirates", the first work written in Portuguese about the history, leadership, culture, economy, and future vision of the UAE. The publication has since become a reference for researchers, students, and all Brazilians wishing to learn more about the Emirates.
Education and Cultural Outreach
Since its inauguration in 2013, the Consulate General has regularly delivered presentations on UAE culture, society, and history at schools and universities across the State of São Paulo, contributing to broader mutual understanding and closer ties between both peoples.
