Today's Edition
ASILA AL BADI (ABU DHABI)
In a realm where creativity meets diplomacy and international exchange, Lateefa bin Hamoodah stands out as one of the UAE’s most dynamic cultural voices.
A cultural strategist and arts patron, Lateefa has been working in the UAE art scene for almost a decade. She is a patron of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and serves on the Advisory Board for the Art History and Archaeology Department at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi.
Recently appointed as Regional Adviser for Beaumont Nathan, a leading international art advisory expanding into Abu Dhabi, she continues to shape how art from the Arab region is resonating with the world.
“Art is interdisciplinary - it combines everything: politics, religion, and culture. You have to understand the world to understand an artwork,” Lateefa told Aletihad.
During the pandemic, Lateefa launched her own art advisory firm, “almost by accident”.
“Galleries weren’t selling, and I was already collecting, so I began helping my family and friends. It grew naturally into something bigger.”
Connecting Talent Globally
Over the years, Lateefa became a prominent figure in the Emirati and Gulf art scene, known for her deep knowledge of regional artists.
“I could probably name every Emirati artist there is. From pioneers to those just starting out, I’ve followed their journeys closely. I’ve been observing and participating in the field since 2017, and that nearly decade-long experience shaped who I am today.”
Her new chapter with Beaumont Nathan builds on that framework, connecting the UAE’s talent with an international network of collectors and institutions.
“What makes Beaumont Nathan special is their transparency and integrity,” she said. “They’ve worked with some of the world’s top collectors and museums, and now they want to bring that level of expertise to the region. My role is really to be the bridge between their global experience and our local art ecosystem.”
She noted that Beaumont Nathan also brings an educational approach to art collecting.
“Their philosophy is not just to sell; it’s about building relationships and helping people understand art,” she said. “We take our time with clients. It’s very personal - it’s about connection and learning.”
Lateefa believes that this moment marks a turning point for the UAE’s art scene, which is entering “a very exciting phase”.
“We’ve built strong foundations through institutions like Louvre Abu Dhabi and soon the Guggenheim - these projects have been years in the making. People are now exposed to art of global calibre, and naturally, they want to bring that same level into their own collections. That’s why now is the perfect moment for a firm like Beaumont Nathan to be here - it’s the first of its kind in the region.”
At the Confluence of Art and Diplomacy
Her work now sits at the crossroads of art, diplomacy, and business - a balance that she believes reflects the UAE’s broader vision.
Lateefa’s perspective has deepened through her participation in the Future Leaders in Foreign Policy Programme at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy, where she explored how culture intersects with international relations.
“I advise governments on finding artworks that convey the right messages but still remain diplomatically correct,” she said. “To have that awareness of how art interacts with foreign policy - it changes how you see everything.”
As one of the few Emirati women leading in the global art advisory space, she hopes her path can inspire others.
“We come from a culture of generosity, humility, and tolerance,” she said. “Our leaders are incredible examples of that. You don’t need to be a diplomat to represent your country - every Emirati abroad is an ambassador in their own way.”
Looking ahead, Lateefa envisions more Emirati artists making their mark on global cultural arenas.
“We’ve built such strong ties with museums around the world,” she said. “Now, it’s our responsibility to make sure Emirati artists are placed on those major global stages - whether through exhibitions or acquisitions.”
Her cultural mission extends beyond words. From attending international galas at the Metropolitan Museum of Art to speaking at global events, she actively represents the UAE internationally.
“Sometimes I’m the only Emirati in the room,” she said. “It’s a huge honour, and I never take it lightly. I always try to represent the country in the best way I can.”
The Art-Tech Balance
When discussing the future, Lateefa turns to technology as one of the strongest tools shaping the next era of art collecting.
“We’re more interconnected than ever. You can be anywhere in the world, see an artwork, and immediately share it with a client,” she said. “Technology has made collecting more accessible and transparent.”
She believes the fusion of art and innovation is only just beginning.
“The sky is the limit for how art and tech can merge,” she said.
“But the future is hybrid - technology makes things easier, but you still want to experience the artwork in person. It’s about finding that balance.”
