By Dubai’s cultural landscape continues to evolve, and with it comes a wave of strategic leadership appointments that signal the emirate’s unwavering commitment to excellence. In an exciting development for the region’s cultural sector, Afnan Abdulla has been appointed as the Director of Asset Management and Logistics at the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture). This appointment marks a significant step forward in strengthening the operational backbone of one of the UAE’s most influential cultural institutions.
A Leader with a Proven Track Record
Afnan Abdulla brings a wealth of experience in asset management, facilities operations, and infrastructure strategy to this new role. With a career spanning some of the most high-profile organisations in the UAE, Afnan has built a reputation as a results-driven professional who combines technical expertise with strategic vision.
Before joining Dubai Culture, Afnan served as the Director of Asset Management at Expo City Dubai, where they played a central role in managing the vast infrastructure and facilities of the iconic site that emerged from Expo 2020 Dubai. Prior to that, Afnan held the role of Director of Community Services at the same organisation, demonstrating versatility across multiple operational domains.
Afnan’s professional journey also includes impactful stints at some of the UAE’s most prominent entities. As the Manager of the Asset Information Section at the Roads & Transport Authority (RTA) Dubai, Afnan contributed to maintaining and optimising the city’s critical transport infrastructure. Earlier roles at Etihad Airways as Manager of Asset & Facilities and at Emirates Group as Asset and Facilities Superintendent further underscore a deep understanding of large-scale operations within complex organisations.
Academic Excellence and Professional Credentials
Afnan Abdulla’s appointment is backed by a strong academic foundation. Holding a Master of Science and Master of Arts from Heriot-Watt University, a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Dubai, and a Postgraduate qualification from the University of California, Berkeley’s Haas School of Business, Afnan combines global academic exposure with local industry knowledge.
In addition, Afnan is a Certified Facility Manager (CFM) by IFMA, a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS), and holds LEED AP BD+C accreditation — credentials that reflect a deep commitment to sustainability, operational excellence, and industry best practices.
Why This Appointment Matters for Dubai Culture
The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, established in 2008 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, serves as the custodian of the emirate’s cultural and creative sectors. Under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum as Chairperson, the Authority is responsible for preserving Dubai’s rich heritage, nurturing creative talent, and positioning the city as a global hub for art and culture.
As the Authority continues to expand its portfolio of cultural assets — including museums, heritage sites, galleries, and public art installations — the need for robust asset management and efficient logistics becomes increasingly critical. Afnan Abdulla’s appointment addresses this need directly, bringing world-class operational expertise to an organisation at the heart of Dubai’s cultural identity.
What This Means Going Forward
With Afnan at the helm of asset management and logistics, Dubai Culture is well-positioned to achieve several key objectives. The appointment is expected to drive greater efficiency in the management of the Authority’s physical and digital assets, streamline logistics operations across its diverse portfolio of cultural venues, and integrate sustainability-focused practices into the management of heritage and contemporary cultural spaces.
Afnan’s experience at Expo City Dubai, where they managed the transition of a world-class exposition site into a permanent urban destination, is particularly relevant. Dubai Culture oversees a similarly diverse array of cultural properties, each requiring careful stewardship to ensure they remain vibrant, accessible, and well-maintained for residents and visitors alike.
Furthermore, Afnan’s LEED and sustainability credentials align perfectly with the UAE’s broader vision for sustainable development. As Dubai continues its journey toward becoming one of the world’s most sustainable cities, having a leader with this expertise within a key cultural authority sends a strong message about the integration of sustainability into every sector.
A Strategic Move for Dubai’s Cultural Future
Leadership appointments in government authorities often go unnoticed, but they carry immense strategic significance. Afnan Abdulla’s appointment as Director of Asset
Management and Logistics at Dubai Culture & Arts Authority is a clear indicator that the organisation is investing in operational excellence to match its ambitious cultural vision.
With a proven track record across aviation, transportation, and urban development sectors, combined with top-tier academic qualifications and globally recognised professional certifications, Afnan is uniquely equipped to drive this mandate forward. This appointment not only strengthens Dubai Culture’s internal capabilities but also reinforces the emirate’s position as a city that attracts and nurtures world-class talent across every field.
As Dubai’s cultural scene continues to flourish on the global stage, leaders like Afnan Abdulla will play a pivotal role in ensuring the infrastructure behind the art, heritage, and creativity is as exceptional as the cultural offerings themselves.
Congratulations to Afnan Abdulla on this well-deserved appointment!
We wish them every success in this exciting new chapter.