H.H. Sheikh Mohammed visits Dubai Opera

WAM - Vice President and Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, accompanied by H.H. Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, visited the Dubai Opera last evening which opened earlier yesterday.

He toured the new opera house, the dhow-shaped design, depicting Dubai's maritime culture and seafaring heritage.

HH Sheikh Mohammed said the cultural progress witnessed in the UAE has contributed in positioning the country as a beacon for innovation and intellectual excellence.

He said: "I am pleased with the fast-paced development of the cultural scene in the UAE. Culture is one of the life's main pillars, a cornerstone for building communities, a mirror for their progress and a driving force for creativity and excellence."

Sheikh Mohammed described the Dubai Opera as an important icon that adds to the cultural achievements of the UAE and the region.

"The Dubai Opera has a great value as a new platform for arts, an effective cultural bridge and an intellectual window for the infusion of the world's creative arts," he said.

Present were Mohammed Ali Al Abbar, Chairman of Emaar Properties and Khalifa Saeed Sulaiman, Director General of Dubai Protocol and Hospitality Department.

Dubai Opera's massive building includes a 2,000 seat theatre with three flexible positions, based on the type and size of the show, whether opera, ballet or musical concerts.

The building also houses different facilities, including a roof-top restaurant and garden, overlooking two of Dubai's key landmarks; the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa.

WAM/bashir