The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has signed a five-year memorandum of understanding with the Tokyo National Museum to strengthen cooperation in research, museum activities and professional development.
The agreement was signed at DCT Abu Dhabi headquarters in the presence of Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, and establishes a framework for collaboration spanning research, education, staff exchanges and joint exhibitions.
Strengthening cultural bridges with Japan
“This partnership with Tokyo National Museum is part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen cultural cooperation and promote meaningful exchange between Abu Dhabi and Japan,” Al Mubarak said. “It reflects our shared commitment to deepening mutual understanding and fostering the exchange and learning of culture through research, education, and museum collaboration.”
He added that the MoU aims to build enduring ties between cultural institutions in both countries, reinforcing culture’s role as a bridge that connects nations and inspires future generations.
Makoto Fujiwara, Executive Director of Tokyo National Museum, said the agreement would open new opportunities for creative and professional exchange. “We are pleased to collaborate with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi to exchange expertise, enrich the global cultural landscape and present new visions for cultural and human creativity in the museum sector,” he said. “Through joint exhibitions featuring artistic and heritage works from both our cultures, we will continue to introduce Japanese and Emirati audiences to the depth of our respective traditions.”
Under the MoU, the two institutions will cooperate on the study and preservation of cultural materials, including opportunities for mutual lending and borrowing. The partnership also includes training and exchange programmes for museum professionals, alongside plans for joint exhibitions, educational courses and cultural workshops in Abu Dhabi.
The agreement reflects DCT Abu Dhabi’s broader strategy to expand international cultural partnerships and reinforce the emirate’s role as a global hub for museum collaboration, while marking a new chapter in cultural relations between the UAE and Japan.
