Culture
Beyond the Cube: Rethinking Urban Ambition in Riyadh
If the first phase of Vision 2030 was designed to capture imagination and reposition the kingdom globally, the next phase may focus on livability and affordability.
Resilient by Design: Infrastructure and the Future of UAE Urbanism
Rather than pursuing the next iconic tower or artificial island, the UAE’s urban development model is shifting toward systems that are less visible but more essential.
The Second Phase of the UAE Space Economy
As the UAE navigates a more volatile regional environment, the next phase of its space effort will hinge on how quickly it can scale its commercial ecosystem and deepen international integration.
Business as Usual in the UAE?
The war has hit the United Arab Emirates during a period of cultural and economic flourishing. While life goes on amid continuous Iranian attacks, the country’s residents rally for its postwar return.
UAE Space Ambitions: Building the Space Industrial Base
On March 25, AGSI hosted a discussion on UAE space development.
The UAE’s Pitch for Cricket
Cricket has become a key part of the United Arab Emirates’ multipolar approach to sports investment, where franchise ownership, player markets, and transnational capital converge to support economic diversification and power projection.
The Architecture of Iran’s Digital Repression
The Iranian regime’s internet censorship and shutdowns function as comprehensive weapons of political warfare, designed to isolate, demoralize, and ultimately suppress dissent.
Jun 26, 2025
Making Space: Gulf Photographers on the Scene
On June 26, AGSI opened a photography exhibition showcasing the work of 15 contemporary photographers from across the Gulf.
May 27, 2025
Saudi Arabia’s Sports Ambitions: Diversification and Sustainability?
On May 27, AGSI hosted a discussion on Saudi Arabia's investment in sports.
Speakers
Apr 29, 2025
AGSI x Culture Summit: A New World History: Nonhuman Perspectives in Gulf Art
On April 29, AGSI convened a session on alternative histories in art at Culture Summit Abu Dhabi.
Speakers
Exploring Oman’s History, Culture, and Cuisine: A Conversation With Chef Dina Macki
On March 26, AGSI hosted a discussion on the history of Omani cuisine.
Speakers
Dec 3, 2024
Book Talk: The Development of An Art History in the UAE
On December 3, AGSIW hosted a discussion on contemporary art in the United Arab Emirates.
Speakers
May 12, 2026
10:00am - 11:30am
Book Talk: Realizing Saudi Vision 2030: Governance, Institutions and Human Capital Development
On May 12, AGSI will host a discussion on the implementation of Vision 2030.
Speakers
Apr 30, 2026
Kuwait Reception
On April 30, AGSI hosted a special reception honoring the diplomats and staff recently evacuated from the U.S. Embassy in Kuwait.
Apr 21, 2026
Inside Iran’s Wartime Leadership: Power, Succession, and Regime Stability
On April 21, AGSI hosted a discussion on the evolution of Iran's leadership during the war.
Speakers
Apr 15, 2026
Iran at the Intersection: Conflict, Technology, and Digital Control
On April 15, AGSI hosted a private workshop on understanding how the dynamics of Iran's defense technology, information control, and geopolitical competition connect, led by Visiting Scholar Sara Bazoobandi.
Speakers
Apr 14, 2026
Planning for Postwar Recovery: Economic Outlooks and Policy Responses for the GCC
On April 14, AGSI hosted a discussion on how the Gulf Arab states can transition from crisis management to position themselves for sustainable postconflict growth.
Speakers
Apr 13, 2026
Assessing the U.S.-Iranian Truce and First Round of Negotiations
On April 13, AGSI hosted a discussion on the recently announced U.S.-Iranian two-week cease-fire.
Speakers
Millennial Gulf
View AllAmmar Alsabban: Superman With a Saudi Accent
With passions as diverse as puppetry, podcasting, and superheroes, Ammar Alsabban is redefining the creative limits of Saudi identity.
