ArtDayME: On April 15, the French Embassy in the United Arab Emirates honored Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, President and Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, by awarding her the title of Officier de L’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres (Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters).

The recognition was presented during an official ceremony held at The Flying Saucer, a prominent cultural and artistic venue in Sharjah, by French Ambassador Nicolas Niemtchinow. In his remarks, he praised Al Qasimi’s “remarkable contribution to strengthening cultural and artistic ties between . . . France and the UAE,” and commended the Sharjah Biennial, “which has become a reference in the world of contemporary art.”

Expressing her gratitude for the honor, Al Qasimi said it is “a wonderful reflection of the collaborations and cultural exchanges that have shaped my work in Sharjah, the UAE, and internationally.” She added that it “reaffirms the importance of continuing to build cultural dialogue through the arts.

The Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, established in 1957, is one of France’s most prestigious cultural honors. It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to the enrichment of the arts and literature in France and around the world.

Beyond her role at the Sharjah Art Foundation, Al Qasimi holds leadership positions in several prominent cultural initiatives, including the International Biennial Association, the Sharjah Architecture Triennial, and the Sharjah Creative Quarter. Her curatorial practice also extends internationally—she is the Artistic Director of the upcoming 6th Aichi Triennale (2025) and the 25th Biennale of Sydney (2026).