Dubai Hosts Leading African Business and Philanthropic Figures to Advance Cultural and Economic Collaboration
DUBAI, 7th December, 2025 – H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), held a meeting with a distinguished delegation of Africa’s influential business and philanthropic leaders. The high-level session focused on exploring opportunities for collaboration in culture, creativity, and social development, as well as harnessing collective expertise to drive innovation and impact-driven initiatives across regions.
The meeting examined areas of mutual interest and means to further strengthen cultural and economic ties. Both sides highlighted the exchange of insights as a pivotal step towards advancing partnerships with lasting social impact.
Sheikha Latifa welcomed the delegation—led by Badr Jafar, Special Envoy of the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Business and Philanthropy—and emphasised the significance of meaningful partnerships with global leaders shaping the future of cultural and economic development. She underscored Dubai’s evolving role as a global hub for creativity, knowledge exchange, and cross-regional collaboration, reaffirming the emirate’s commitment to empowering talent and supporting human development.
Sheikha Latifa was joined by prominent local figures including Mohammad Ali Rashed Lootah, President and CEO of Dubai Chambers; Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation; and Mansoor Hussain Lootah, CEO of the Corporate Enablement Sector and Chief AI Officer at Dubai Culture.
The occasion further showcased Dubai’s position as a crossroads for culture, creativity, and innovation. Sheikha Latifa also conveyed appreciation for the delegation’s achievements, lauding the deep historical ties and shared values that continue to reinforce bonds between the UAE and Africa.
The esteemed delegation included notable industry and philanthropic icons:
- Abdul Samad Rabiu (BUA Group, Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative)
- Aliko Dangote (Dangote Group, Aliko Dangote Foundation)
- Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich Tein (Elin Group, Elizabeth Jack-Rich Aid Foundation)
- Humphrey Kariuki (Janus Continental Group, Humphrey Kariuki Foundation)
- Johann Rupert (Richemont, Remgro, Rupert Education Foundation)
- Mohammad Dewji (MeTL Group, Mo Dewji Foundation)
- Sir Mo Ibrahim (Celtel International, Mo Ibrahim Foundation)
- Naguib Sawiris (Orascom Investment Holding, Sawiris Foundation for Social Development)
- Dr. Patrice Motsepe (African Rainbow Minerals, Motsepe Foundation)
- Dr. Precious Moloi-Motsepe (African Fashion International, Motsepe Foundation)
- Strive Masiyiwa (Econet Global, Cassava Technologies, Higherlife Foundation)
- Tsitsi Masiyiwa (Delta Philanthropies, Higherlife Foundation)
- Tony Elumelu (Heirs Holdings, Transcorp, Tony Elumelu Foundation)
The assembly of such influential figures reaffirms the mutual commitment to nurturing talent and fostering collaboration with a lasting impact on communities both regionally and globally.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
