du joins hands with Sharjah's Maraya Art Centre in support of creativity

Supporting innovation and creativity in the UAE as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility efforts, du has announced its support of Maraya Art Centre, based at Al Qasba in Sharjah. The collaboration aims to help nurture creativity and promote awareness of art and creative ingenuity, thereby supporting young talent and encouraging innovation throughout the country.
On this occasion, Hala Badri, EVP of Brand and Communications at du, said: “Innovation and creativity lie at the heart of our company’s philosophy and we are therefore committed to supporting the ambitions of both organisations and individuals who demonstrate creative flair and enthusiasm. We are therefore very pleased to support Maraya Art Centre – based in the UAE’s cultural capital Sharjah, which is truly an inspirational centre for creatives – and we look forward to working with them to support young artists in the UAE and smooth the way for increased creative innovation, which we recognise to be a vital ingredient of the country’s culture and identity.”
H.E Marwan Jassim Al Sarkal , CEO of Al Qasba Development Authority, said: “Maraya is an ambitious attempt to encourage creativity in the UAE. It is heartening to have du on our side, and share our vision – as we believe that together we can make a tangible difference. The participation so far has been tremendously encouraging and we are looking forward to showcase the best in creative talent in future.”
Maraya Art Centre is a stage for creative experimentation and a testament to the region’s extraordinary artistic genius, hosting a panorama of the region’s finest compositions. The Centre is comprised of three levels which have a unique theme tying the pieces together in custom-built exhibition spaces.
The first level “The Shelter – Maraya Art Centre”, an incubation centre for UAE entrepreneurs – supported by du – seeking to make an impact on the local scene and collaborate with others in the business. The second level of Maraya features a permanent exhibition titled Barjeel Art Foundation which was conceived by Sultan Bin Sooud Al-Qassemi to create a space for Arab artwork to be displayed in an interactive and communal setting. The top floor of Maraya Art Centre is a Contemporary Art Gallery featuring dramatic and avant-garde pieces selected from some of the most promising names in the world of modern art with a global reach.
About the Al Qasba Development Authority
Al Qasba Development Authority was established as per the directives of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to oversee the development of Al Qasba, into an impressive entertainment, leisure and cultural hub of the Middle East. Chaired by H.E Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qassimi, the Authority seeks to reinforce the Emirate position as the cultural capital of the region and promote the flow of learning and information within specific disciplines. In March 2008, Qanat Al Qasba was re-branded as Al Qasba. Al Qasba offers travellers and local residents an unparalleled entertainment experience. Visitors can take in the beautiful local surroundings, sample an array of fine international cuisines, and participate in a range of year-round activities. Al Qasba also hosts a number of art exhibits each month in Maraya Art Centre featuring renowned local and international artists. Situated alongside the relaxing Sharjah waterfront, it is an ideal retreat for family and friends looking to spend a fun-filled day in the cultural capital of the UAE.
About du
du, the integrated telecom service provider in the UAE, launched mobile telecommunication services in February 2007 across the UAE, in addition to internet and pay TV services that du provides in some of the free zones of Dubai. Call Select, du’s nationwide fixed line services for voice telephony, was launched in July 2007. By the end of 3rd quarter of 2010, over 4 million people in the UAE had chosen to become du mobile customers.
Among du’s many firsts is its historic Number Booking Campaign for both individuals and business, Pay by the Second billing system, Mobile TV, Mobile Payments, first of its kind ‘WoW’ recharge card (which offers customers the choice between ‘more credit’, ‘more time’ and now the ‘more international’ recharge option with additional credit on international calls) and Self Care.
For business customers, du business offers include Closed Business User Group and preferred International Destinations. du Broadcast Services division brings scalable media technology platforms and telecommunication solutions to the broadcast community through its world-class teleport (Samacom) and Master Control Room (MCR) facilities.
du products and services for consumers and business are available through du’s retail network, currently numbering 37 du shops located in strategic locations across the UAE, including the recently opened flagship store located in the heart of Abu Dhabi. In addition, customers can access du products and services at more than 3000 authorised dealers or through the du e-shop, accessible at http://shop.du.ae du shops are a one-stop-shop for mobile service, carrier select and the payment of service bills.
du is 39.5 per cent owned by the UAE Federal Government, 19.75 per cent by Mubadala Development Company, 19.5 per cent by Emirates Communications & Technology Company LLC and the remaining stake by public shareholders. It is listed on the Dubai Financial Market (DFM) and trades under the name du.