Rabat, January 16, 2025 – The 24th session of the Conference of Ministers Responsible for Cultural Affairs in the Arab World commenced today in Rabat, Morocco, gathering key stakeholders from the Arab region, including culture ministers and representatives from regional and international organizations. Held under the theme “Cultural and Creative Industries: Challenges of Digital Transformation and Artificial Intelligence,” the conference focused on the evolving role of cultural industries in the digital age and the potential impact of artificial intelligence on the creative sector.
The opening session of the conference underscored the Arab world’s rich cultural heritage and creative assets, emphasizing the need for these resources to be strategically leveraged to foster economic development across the region. Digital transformation and the growing influence of AI were recognized as pivotal tools to modernize cultural industries, expand their global reach, and enhance their competitiveness on the international stage. Discussions touched upon the integration of cutting-edge technologies into cultural and creative sectors, with an emphasis on how to balance modernization with the preservation of traditional values and cultural identities.
One of the key goals of the conference was to devise a forward-looking plan for the sustainable development of cultural industries across Arab nations. Reviewing and adopting the recommendations of the Permanent Committee for Arab Culture was a significant part of the agenda, setting the stage for actionable strategies that could reshape the future of the cultural landscape in the Arab world. Furthermore, the 25th session of the conference was discussed, with arrangements being made to ensure its success and continued relevance in promoting cultural dialogue and exchange.
As part of the discussions, there was a strong focus on embracing global best practices in the fields of culture and creativity. By doing so, Arab nations aim to drive innovation and create opportunities for economic growth, positioning cultural industries as key players in the development of the region. At the same time, there was a shared commitment to safeguarding and promoting Arab cultural heritage, ensuring that this rich legacy continues to thrive amid the changes brought about by technological advancements.
The conference is expected to generate concrete strategies that will position Arab culture not only as an integral part of sustainable development but also as a leading force in global cultural exchange. The insights gathered during the session will be instrumental in crafting policies that support cultural innovation, economic growth, and the preservation of heritage, ensuring that the Arab world remains at the forefront of global cultural and creative industries.
By embracing the digital transformation and the possibilities offered by artificial intelligence, the Arab world seeks to redefine its cultural and creative sectors, making them more dynamic, innovative, and globally influential. The outcome of this session promises to shape the future of Arab culture for generations to come, making it a powerful engine for both economic and social development across the region.