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Since her appointment in 2019 as the Director-General of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, Her Excellency Hala Badri has brought transformative leadership to the cultural landscape of Dubai. Under her guidance, Dubai’s cultural scene has flourished, with key initiatives that promoted the city’s creative economy and rehabilitated historic landmarks like Al Fahidi. Her strategic vision has also earned Dubai the opportunity to host the prestigious International Council of Museums (ICOM) conference in 2025, marking a significant milestone for the MENASA region.
With over two decades of experience across telecommunications, oil and gas, media, and real estate, Hala Badri’s expertise spans various sectors. Her earlier work with ADNOC and Du in strategic communications played a pivotal role in enhancing their brand value and influence. At Du, she was instrumental in shaping the company’s communications strategy, propelling it to become one of the region’s most valuable brands.
Hala is also a champion of Emirati talent and social responsibility. She has been a leader in nurturing young Emirati professionals, ensuring their growth within organizations and the broader business landscape. Her pioneering efforts include the first implementation of Social Return on Investment (SROI) in the region, underscoring her commitment to sustainable, impactful business practices.
A staunch advocate for female empowerment, Hala has broken barriers for women in male-dominated industries and continues to champion gender equality in her roles. As Vice Chairperson for the Dubai Women Establishment and a member of the Dubai Media Council, she has worked to promote women’s leadership across various sectors.
Recognized for her outstanding achievements, Hala Badri has been named among the most powerful Arab women in the world and continues to drive the cultural renaissance in Dubai, positioning the city as a global hub for arts and creativity. Her leadership serves as an inspiration for future generations, demonstrating the powerful role of culture in shaping sustainable and prosperous societies.
