The United Arab Emirates, represented by a delegation led by Minister of State Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi and attended by Iraq’s Prime Minister Mohammed Shia’ Al Sudani, participated in the official opening ceremony of several cultural and heritage sites rebuilt in the Iraqi city of Mosul. The reconstruction was funded by the UAE in partnership with UNESCO and the European Union. The event marked a significant milestone in restoring the city’s historic landmarks as part of the “Reviving the Spirit of Mosul” initiative.

In her speech at the ceremony, Al Kaabi expressed gratitude to the Iraqi government and UNESCO for their fruitful cooperation, which was fundamental to the success of rebuilding Mosul’s historical and cultural sites.

She stated: “Since signing the agreement with Iraq and UNESCO to participate in the ‘Reviving the Spirit of Mosul’ initiative, the UAE committed to reconstructing the Al-Nuri Mosque and its leaning minaret, as well as the Tahera and Al-Saa churches, based on our vision to protect Mosul’s memory and identity. Our message has been clear: the UAE stands with our brothers in Iraq to preserve, protect, and restore their human history, and that heritage protection is a moral and humanitarian responsibility toward future generations.”

She confirmed that under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, the country views the reconstruction of Mosul as a shared international responsibility, working alongside partners in Iraq and UNESCO to make this project a model of international cooperation in safeguarding human heritage.

Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi affirmed the UAE’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage in conflict-affected areas and its belief in the role of culture in building coexistence and enhancing community recovery. He noted that the strategic partnership with UNESCO reflects the UAE’s vision to support international efforts aimed at protecting human heritage and promoting cultural dialogue among peoples.

He added that the “Reviving the Spirit of Mosul” project is a pioneering example of international cooperation, encompassing not only the reconstruction of historical landmarks but also training and educational programs that have contributed to building local community capacities and empowerment.

The UAE allocated $50.4 million for the reconstruction of Mosul, rebuilding its heritage landmarks and its rich urban fabric, in addition to support from the European Union amounting to $48.2 million, alongside other international contributions, reflecting the international community’s shared commitment to preserving heritage and strengthening cultural ties.

The opening ceremony was attended by UAE Ambassador to Iraq Abdullah Matar Al Mazrouei, UAE Permanent Delegate to UNESCO Ali Al Haj, Director of the Federal Youth Authority Khaled Al Nuaimi, along with several senior officials.

Salem Al Qasimi:

• The strategic partnership with UNESCO embodies the UAE’s vision to support international efforts aimed at protecting human heritage.

Noura Al Kaabi:

• The UAE stands with its brothers in Iraq to preserve, protect, and restore their human history.