Actor Will Smith guest of honor at American culture event in Dubai

Actor Will Smith was the guest of honor at a reception for the UAE business and Emirati community in Dubai.

The event celebrated a new collaboration between the United States consulate general and Maven Marketing & Events to promote American culture across Dubai and the northern Emirates while enhancing business relationships between the UAE and the United States.

Smith was presented with a model of a traditional dhow boat, signifying the vision of Dubai's leaders. Smith has spoken often of being inspired by the ambition and growth of Dubai. 

“It is an honor to be working with the U.S. Consulate on such an exciting initiative to promote American culture in a city which is home to over 200 different nationalities,"  Sarah Omolewu, managing partner of Maven Marketing & Events, said. "We look forward to expanding this initiative by creating staple events on the Dubai calendar throughout the year. With over 20 blockbuster films under his belt, I can’t think of a more respected popular cultural icon as Will Smith to be the guest of honor at our inaugural event.”

The event was part of Smith’s visit to Dubai to screen his latest film, "Suicide Squad," at Vox Cinemas.  

“Will Smith is an American cinematic icon and an ideal ambassador for American films and the important role they play in conveying to the world some of the United States’ greatest strengths - imagination, innovation, creativity, and the drive to make the seemingly impossible a reality," Paul Malik, U.S. consul general in Dubai, said  "The creativity and innovation that are responsible for the success of the American film industry are dependent upon the United States’ strong enforcement and protection of intellectual property rights.”