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Shaikh Hamdan gives Ahmad Humaid Al Tayer, Governor of the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), the Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts Award. DIFC won the award for its support of the arts. Image Credit: Supplied

Dubai: If Dubai's art scene is pulsating with growing vigour and vibrancy, it is not without any pecuniary reasons.

A staggering Dh220 million was pumped into the emirate's art industry over the past three years by generous patrons — strategically positioning Dubai on the global cultural landscape.

As a testimony to such contribution, over 50 individuals and organisations were yesterday honoured by Dubai Culture at the inaugural Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patron of the Arts awards.

His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and Shaikh Hamdan Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, were present at the function held at the Convention Centre of the Dubai World Trade Centre.

The awards were presented by Shaikh Maktoum Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Deputy Ruler of Dubai, and Shaikh Majid Bin Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of Dubai Culture.

The recipients of the awards were from both private and public sector organisations, as well as individuals not affiliated to any organisation.

The awards were in four categories, which were Distinguished Patrons of the Arts, Patrons of the Arts, Supporters of the Arts and Friends of the Arts.

The awards were given in recognition of their contribution, in cash or in kind, to the development of any of four listed art disciplines — visual arts, film, literature and performing arts — during the 2007-09 period.

The Friends of the Arts awards were presented to those who had contributed amounts ranging from Dh50,000 to Dh500,000, while the Supporters of the Arts award was for those who gave between Dh500,000 and Dh2 million.

Those who gave between Dh2 million to Dh5 million got the Patrons of the Arts award while those who gave above Dh5 million received the Distinguished Patrons of the Arts award. "Patrons are not merely sponsors of the art events. They do not seek the limelight but stand as pillars of continued support for the arts community," Shaikh Majid said.

"By recognising them, we aim to stimulate further support for the various art disciplines and thus contribute to make Dubai a city where content is created and not merely exhibited."

The awards were announced last year by Shaikh Mohammad to strengthen the arts industry.