Qatar's 'Years of Culture' Initiative Expands International Partnerships Until 2030

Qatar's 'Years of Culture' Initiative: Expanding Global Ties Until 2030

The 'Years of Culture' initiative in Qatar has officially announced its cultural partners through the year 2030. This initiative, which aims to bolster cultural exchange and collaborations, continues its trajectory by adding new partners following previously established relationships with Egypt and Greece for the year 2027. The upcoming editions will be marked with collaborations involving Italy in 2028, the Netherlands and Switzerland in 2029, and both Portugal and Spain in 2030.

Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the president of 'Years of Culture', shared her insights, stating, "As we celebrate the completion of our fifteenth edition, 'Years of Culture' is set to further strengthen the ties of friendship and cultural exchange between Qatar and various countries around the globe. This not only boosts the creative industries in our nation but also fosters social and economic development. By engaging in impactful alliances, we embark on a new era that positions Qatar in a rich dialogue with Mediterranean and European nations rooted in a shared history of exchange and diplomatic relations."

Launched in 2012, the 'Years of Culture' initiative promotes understanding and long-lasting relationships between Qatar and other countries through various mediums including art, heritage, gastronomy, music, sports, education, and economic connections. This initiative embodies Qatar's strong belief that cultural collaboration enhances dialogue, strengthens international bonds, and cultivates respect beyond borders.

Continuing its model of partnership which was successfully executed over the past two years with Argentina and Chile (2025) and Canada and Mexico (2026), the collaboration with Egypt and Greece in 2027 aims to delve deeper into the historical ties Qatar shares with these nations whose culture still resonates within contemporary creative scenes.

The program is poised to unlock new opportunities across multiple areas such as literature, art, design, music, heritage, and other creative sectors. The kickoff is set for January 2027, with Qatar being the esteemed guest of honor at the Cairo International Book Fair.

The year 2028 will see Qatar collaborating with Italy, highlighting the longstanding cultural ties in areas such as archaeology, fashion, design, and heritage preservation. This collaboration coincides with the inauguration of the permanent national pavilion of Qatar at the historic Giardini della Biennale in Venice, designed by architect Lina Ghotmeh, marking the first new permanent pavilion in 30 years and only the third in the last 50 years.

As we approach 2029, the partnerships with the Netherlands and Switzerland will bring in discussions on global leadership in innovation, diplomacy, design, humanitarian efforts, and sustainability.

The year 2030 will close out this cycle of cultural exchange with Portugal and Spain, following the tradition of collaborative efforts with host nations of the FIFA World Cup.

Throughout each 'Year of Culture', Qatar will work closely with cultural institutions, embassies, artists, and educators to showcase a rich calendar full of exhibitions, festivals, fairs, residencies, academic exchanges, and public events, both within Qatar and in the partnering countries. The programming typically commences prior to the official start of the year, extending far beyond it, thus facilitating the establishment of enduring institutional alliances, professional networks, and interpersonal connections.

For more information, visit www.yearsofculture.qa or follow @yearsofculture on social media for updates.