Middle East Programs

About the Emirates-Aspen Partnership

In January 2010, the United Arab Emirates entered into a high-level strategic partnership with The Aspen Institute at the behest of His Excellency Yousef Al Otaiba, Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to the United States, and Walter Isaacson, President of The Aspen Institute.  The objective of this partnership is to develop an established dialogue that will cultivate seasoned relationships between civic, business, and government leaders in the US, the UAE, and the broader Middle East.

The centerpiece of the first year of this partnership was the Emirates-Aspen Forum on Innovation in Abu Dhabi October 5-6, 2010. The Forum explored the elements and challenges of creating and sustaining a culture of innovation and creativity.  Innovation is at the forefront of all sectors in the Emirates, as rapid advances in business, education, environment and the arts are establishing the UAE as a regional and international leader.

The Emirates-Aspen Partnership will organize a series of events, roundtables, workshops, and delegations that will explore issues and opportunities figuring prominently in US-UAE relationship. The Partnership will explore issues ranging from catalyzing science and technology innovation, to the role of women in civil society, to food and water security and the UAE as a key patron of arts and culture.

As the UAE approaches the 40th anniversary of its founding, the Emirates-Aspen Partnership provides an opportunity for UAE and US leaders of all sectors to share and examine best practices, and develop new partnerships as the Emirates continues its rise in the region and in the world.

For further information on the program and its activities, please contact Program Coordinator Sarah Harlan at Sarah.Harlan@aspeninstitute.org.