Bassam Freiha Collection

I have the honour of sharing my journey as a lover of art, and as a collector of Orientalist paintings, presenting the vision that brought us together on this generous occasion for the establishment and launch of the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation.

The idea of establishing this philanthropic institution crystallized thanks to the encouragement, support and patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the United Arab Emirates, may God protect him. The Foundation’s vision is rooted in my passion for the arts in general, and Orientalist paintings in particular. Its aim is to highlight the depths of Arab and human heritage and to express an appreciation for the rich culture with which the East and the Arab world has endowed human civilization.

Located in the heart of Saadiyat Island – a destination famous for its ambitious cultural and artistic monuments – and in near proximity to prestigious museums and art galleries, the Foundation aspires to create a harmony with the artistic vision of our beautiful capital, and to play a pivotal role within the cultural ecosystem, contributing to Abu Dhabi becoming a leading global cultural hub.

The Foundation’s goal does not stop at sharing Orientalist artworks and displaying them to the public, art lovers and connoisseurs. Rather, it extends beyond that, by committing to educating emerging artists, supporting and nurturing their talents, by holding educational and artistic workshops. It also commits to inviting major international artists to attend and participate in the various exhibitions, ultimately nurturing their artistic expertise and leading them towards excellence.

Bassam Freiha Art Foundation is committed to fostering an environment of philanthropy, supporting the language of civilized dialogue and cultural and artistic exchange. Therefore, we would like to invite art collectors to interact, participate and expand the scope of cultural exchange and dialogue, to hold their exhibitions and artistic events in the Foundation’s exhibition halls, and to further enrich the cultural tapestry of our capital in particular, and the United Arab Emirates in general.

This journey is not just a personal effort, it is a testament to the power of art and its impact on people and on the various courses of civilizations, because it establishes bridges of communication and exchanges of knowledge, advancement and progress.

Today, as we are opening a new chapter for this artistic institution with a human and philanthropic dimension, we are aspiring to contribute to shaping a bright and lasting future for humanity, and for the city that gave us love and appreciation.