IBA President Hoor Al Qasimi Awarded France’s Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters

We congratulate our President, Hoor Al Qasimi, on being awarded the insignia of Officier de l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters) by the French Ministry of Culture. The honor was conferred by Nicolas Niemtchinow, Ambassador of France to the UAE, during a ceremony held at The Flying Saucer in Sharjah on April 15, 2025.

Established in 1957, the Order of Arts and Letters recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the arts and literature, promoting cultural exchange and dialogue. In his remarks, Ambassador Niemtchinow highlighted Sheikha Hoor’s pivotal role in fostering cultural and artistic ties between France and the UAE, noting her commitment to showcasing French and Francophone artists through platforms like the Sharjah Biennial.​

Accepting the award, Hoor Al Qasimi stated, “It is with great honour that I receive this award granted by the Embassy of France in the UAE. The insignia of Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters is a wonderful reflection of the collaborations and cultural exchanges that have shaped my work, in Sharjah, the UAE and internationally. It reaffirms the importance of continuing to build cultural dialogue through the arts. I accept this recognition, not only for myself, but for all those who have supported, guided and inspired me throughout my journey.”

In addition to her leadership role at IBA, Hoor serves as president of the Sharjah Art Foundation, President of The Africa Institute in Sharjah, Director of the Sharjah Architecture Triennial, head of Sharjah’s Global Studies University, and President of the Sharjah Creative Quarter. She is also the Artistic Director of the upcoming 6th Aichi Triennale (2025) and the 25th Biennale of Sydney (2026).

This prestigious recognition underscores Hoor Al Qasimi’s unwavering dedication to advancing contemporary art and fostering international cultural collaboration.​