The Embassy joined the UN and others around the world in celebrating World Ocean’s Day with the 2021 theme, “The Ocean: Life and Livelihoods.” On June 7, the Embassy hosted a live virtual discussion with marine experts from the US and the UAE to speak to bilateral efforts required to restore and revitalize our oceans.  Dana Al Marashi, Head of Cultural Diplomacy at the Embassy led the discussion with Sarah Fangman, Superintendent of the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary and Hamad Al Jailani, Marine Scientist at the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi.

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum hosted HE Sarah Al Amiri and Omran Sharaf on the June 3 episode of their series, “Air and Space Live.” The discussion, which is a part of the museum’s “Stem in 30” program, broadcasted live on Facebook, attracting students, scientists, children, and adults to learn more about the Emirates Mars Mission, and the future of the space program in the UAE.

For the second year in a row, Dana Al Marashi, Head of Cultural Diplomacy, brought friends and colleagues from across the ocean together to celebrate Ramadhan with a virtual Iftar. Dana hosted the intimate gathering, “Together Apart” with 11 guests from both the US and the UAE and, for the first time, Israel. Notable guests included Robin Solomon, Counselor for Public Affairs at the US Embassy in Abu Dhabi, Tammy Ben-Haim, Minister of Public Diplomacy at the Embassy of Israel, Sara Andon, world-renowned flutist.

Since 1967, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival has welcomed participants and visitors from across the United States and around the world to the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The 2022 edition, Living Landscape | Living Memory, will feature the United Arab Emirates.

For two weeks in the summer of 2022, the National Mall will transform into a majlis —a key traditional space dedicated to community discussion and hospitality. Join the conversation as we explore Emirati traditions, past and present, as resources for connecting communities and envisioning a sustainable future.