logo
episode-header-image
Sep 2023
23m 19s

Preserving the Past, Enriching the Futur...

Sarah Alagroobi
About this episode

On this week's episode, we chat with Ahmed Obaid Al Mansoori, founder of the Crossroads of Civilizations Museum (CCM) in Dubai. We unpack the importance of preserving the Arab narrative through art, history, enlightenment, and meticulous documentation. The museum aims to promote the peaceful convergence of civilisations and foster a rich understanding of who the Arabs were. His collection exemplifies the importance of cultural preservation and deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of Arab heritage and beyond.


Get ready for an enlightening conversation as we explore the visionary world of Ahmed Obaid Al Mansoori.

Up next
Sep 13
Once More, With Feeling (Final Episode)
In this final episode, I explain why Native Informant has reached a natural close. I reflect on how a show born from The Letters Project, built on honest conversation and cultural advocacy, found itself in a social landscape that now rewards performance over substance. I speak fr ... Show More
32m 6s
Sep 8
Rashed Alnuaimi: Childlike Wonder Beyond the Stage
On this week's episode, singer, actor, and creative practitioner Rashed Alnuaimi joins me for his first-ever podcast appearance. We explore the intimate balance between public visibility and private freedom, the courage to step away from industry pressures, and the childlike wond ... Show More
46m 33s
Aug 25
Confidence, Passion Projects & Pretty Privilege
On this week's episode, we dive into pretty privilege, confidence, and how these dynamics shape friendships, relationships, and situationships. A candid conversation on self-worth, navigating connections, and owning your presence. 
37m 17s
Recommended Episodes
Jun 2025
Prof Yasir Suleiman-Malley | Arabic in the Fray: Language Ideology and Cultural Politics
Professor Yasir Suleiman-Malley speaks about the complexities of Arabic tracing his personal journey with the language, from early struggles with grammar to a deep appreciation for its richness. We explore the historical and pedagogical challenges of teaching Arabic, especially g ... Show More
1h 5m
Aug 4
Director of Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at MIT Nasser Rabbat on Al-Maqrizi
We welcome back Prof Nasser Rabbat to discuss his latest book "Writing Egypt: Al-Maqrizi and His Historical Project," which focuses on the 14th-century historian labeled as Egypt's greatest historian. The director of the Aga Khan Program for Islamic Architecture at MIT outlines t ... Show More
1h 2m
Jul 9
Maknana at DAF: Glossary of New Media Art From the Arab World | Ala Younis & Haytham Nawar
Live from Diriyah Art Futures in Riyadh, we're joined by Haytham Nawar, the director of Diriyah Art Futures, and Ala Younis who co-curated its latest exhibition, which delves into the New Media Art scene in the Arab world. They explore the lack of recognition for Arab names in gl ... Show More
1h 2m
Jun 2025
Sami Al Daghistani | Al-Ghazali's Influence on Islamic Thought, Ethics & Economic Philosophy
We're joined by professor and author Sami Al Daghistani to explore the life and thought of Al-Ghazali, a prominent figure in Islamic intellectual history. We delve into Al-Ghazali's multifaceted contributions to Islamic law, philosophy, and theology, highlighting his major works, ... Show More
1 h
Mar 2025
Inside the Islamic Arts Biennale | HE Rakan Altouq & Dr Julian Raby
In this episode of the afikra podcast, host Mikey Muhanna speaks with His Excellency Rakan Altouq – Vice Chair of the Diriyah Biennale Arts Foundation and Assistant Minister for Culture of Saudi Arabia – and Dr Julian Raby, one of the artistic directors of the Islamic Arts Bienna ... Show More
56m 37s
Oct 2024
Making Arabic Art Great Again | Gaith Abdulla, UAE / Lebanon
Discover the vibrant world of Arab art with Gaith Abdulla, co-founder of Bayt Al Mamzar, an independent gallery and art residency in Dubai. In this captivating episode, Gaith shares his journey from art enthusiast to gallery owner, offering invaluable insights on how anyone can s ... Show More
50m 31s
Sep 2024
The Insight Track with ASHEKMAN: Revolutionizing Arabic Street Art, Culture, and Legacy
💬 Join the conversation! Share your thoughts in the comments below and let us know what you think of Mais's journey.  Join our WhatsApp channel for exclusive behind-the-scenes clips and insights on upcoming shows. Be part of our community and stay updated! https://whatsapp.com/c ... Show More
56m 38s
Aug 13
Resurgent Nahda: The Arab Exhibitions in Mandate Jerusalem | Nadi Abusaada at Dar El-Nimer
We go back to 1931, when Palestinian journalist Issa El-Issa visited Paris's Colonial Exhibition and discovered Palestinian pavilions had been co-opted by British and Zionist organizers. This experience led the journalist to organize an Arab Exhibition in Palestine in 1933. Histo ... Show More
51 m
May 2025
The Evolution and Impact of Saudi Art | Mohammed Hafiz of ATHR
We talk to Mohammed Hafiz, the founder of ATHR Gallery and Foundation, about his journey in the art world, the evolution of Saudi contemporary art, and the founding of ATHR Gallery and the Saudi Art Council. Hafiz shares personal stories from his first experiences with art, the c ... Show More
1h 1m
Aug 2022
Jameed and Other Jordanian Delicacies | Omar Sartawi
In this Matbakh event, we talked to Omar Sartawi about his creations and subtle blend of flavors from his travels to Europe and the Arab Gulf with his heritage and Jordanian roots. Omar’s popular consecration came in 2017, when he took the local food scene by storm with the launc ... Show More
26m 42s