ADMAF and France’s Manufactures Nationales Sign Landmark MoU to Promote Artistic and Cultural Innovation

Abu Dhabi, The Gulf Observer: In a significant step toward strengthening cultural ties between the United Arab Emirates and France, the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) and Manufactures nationales – Sèvres & Mobilier national, institutions operating under France’s Ministry of Culture, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to foster greater artistic collaboration, innovation, and educational exchange.

The agreement was formalized on July 21, 2025, in Paris, by Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of ADMAF and the Abu Dhabi Festival, and Hervé Lemoine, President of Manufactures nationales. The signing was witnessed by French Minister of Culture Rachida Dati at the Ministry of Culture headquarters.

The MoU aims to support emerging artistic talent, advance expertise among established artists, and preserve and evolve heritage crafts, particularly in ceramics, textiles, and design—traditions shared deeply by both nations.

Minister Rachida Dati welcomed the partnership, stating:

“I am particularly pleased with the signing of this partnership between the Manufactures nationales and ADMAF. It marks a new stage in the relationship between France and the United Arab Emirates, where culture plays a key role. This collaboration enriches our strategic cultural partnership through shared commitment to craftsmanship and innovation.”

Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo remarked:

“Through this partnership, we are establishing a long-term collaboration grounded in creation, innovation, and transmission. Together, we believe that the past is our bond, and the future our calling. This historic MoU reflects our commitment to nurturing young talents and celebrating excellence in craftsmanship.”

President Hervé Lemoine added:

“This unprecedented dialogue affirms that the future of the decorative arts lies at the intersection of tradition and bold innovation. Our partnership with ADMAF creates a space where heritage craftsmanship meets contemporary imagination.”

French Ambassador to the UAE, Nicolas Niemtchinow, hailed the agreement as a “meaningful new chapter” in UAE-France cultural relations.

“This partnership reflects shared values of excellence, sustainability, and creativity. It will empower artisans and institutions from both countries to collaborate, innovate, and inspire a new generation of cultural leaders.”

The collaboration has already taken form through the launch of the Inspiration Residency, an open call for UAE designers to participate in a creative residency in Paris. The program provides access to renowned workshops and design archives, with the first residency aligning with Paris Design Week in September 2025.

Beyond artist exchange, the partnership will explore new approaches to craftsmanship by integrating technology and sustainable practices, while co-developing educational resources to engage younger audiences and preserve the vitality of the decorative arts for future generations.

This landmark MoU reinforces ADMAF’s mission to promote arts education and cultural exchange, while offering a global platform to showcase the rich legacy of French decorative arts and their resonance with the UAE’s cultural vision.