H.H. Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, said art plays a major role in promoting intercultural dialogue.

He also noted that creative works are integral to cultural and human legacy.

Sheikh Saud made this statement while attending the Puccini Opera Gala at the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, to observe the centenary of the death of the famous Italian composer, Giacomo Puccini. Lorenzo Fanara, Ambassador of Italy to the UAE, and several officials were also present.

Under the baton of conductor Jan Latham-Koenig, the global artistic event aims to enhance the cultural ties between the UAE and Italy and expand the scope of their artistic, creative, and cultural exchange. It also celebrates the friendship that binds the two countries.

The Puccini Opera Gala is a renowned global opera event that features the works of Italian composer Giacomo Puccini, who was born in 1858 and died in 1924. He composed works with his own distinctive style that made him one of the most celebrated composers in the genre.