The MENA Arts and Creative Education Market is projected to reach $19.3 billion by 2030, growing at a 9% CAGR from 2024. This growth is fueled by rising demand for creative thinking and digital skills, driven by shifting job market needs and digital transformation across industries, according to IndustryARC’s latest report.

Culture has evolved into a powerful force for innovation, inclusion, and economic value. In Future Trends: Culture and The Creative Sector, the Dubai Future Foundation examines how the creative economy is redefining industries and communities worldwide, especially in a post-pandemic era.

Cultural identity remains a key source of strength and continuity in times of disruption (e.g., COVID-19). Nations that invest in culture are more adaptive.

The Creative Economy Outlook 2024 underscores the pivotal role that creative industries play in trade and economic growth. UNCTAD’s global survey reveals the varied economic contributions of the creative economy across different countries, ranging from 0.5% to 7.3% of GDP and employing between 0.5% to 12.5% of the workforce.

The creative economy is a key driver for inclusive recovery and sustainable development, generating millions of jobs and fostering innovation post-COVID-19. Global leaders call for stronger support to culture, youth, and local communities through international cooperation.