Cultural Strategy vs. Cultural Diplomacy: Why Nations Are Shifting Focus

Discover how countries are shaping their national identity and international influence through strategic cultural initiatives—beyond just diplomacy.

Cultural diplomacy has been a powerful tool for nations to build relationships, promote their heritage, and foster international cooperation for years. But today, as global dynamics shift, countries increasingly turn to cultural strategy as a more proactive approach to building national brand identities, boosting tourism, and enhancing international influence. Cultural strategy is now the backbone of a nation's global presence—far beyond the occasional diplomatic event.

Let’s take a closer look at how some countries in the Middle East, such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, are leading the charge, while others, like Egypt and Türkiye, are grappling with how better to align their cultural heritage with strategic national goals.

Credit: emirates247.com and Dubai Media Office

UAE: Pioneering Cultural Strategy for Over a Decade

The UAE began focusing on its cultur…