Dubai: Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has been awarded a 6-star rating, labeled ‘Outstanding at an International Level,’ at the International Best Practice Competition 2025. The recognition, announced at the event organized by the Centre for Organisational Excellence Research (COER) in collaboration with Global Excellence Networks, highlights the Authority’s Digital Transformation Platform and AI for Optimising Cybersecurity (SOAR) initiative.
According to Emirates News Agency, the award acknowledges pioneering strategies in operations, administration, and systems, alongside forward-looking projects that yield meaningful results across institutions and sectors. Dubai Culture’s AI for Cybersecurity Enhancement programme has implemented advanced artificial intelligence (AI) applications, reinforcing its cybersecurity framework and protecting its digital environment. These solutions have resulted in zero security breaches and saved more than 14,688 working hours.
The Authority’s Digital Transformation Platform, launched in 2022, is a key component of Dubai’s broader digital agenda. By integrating internal operations into a smart ecosystem enhanced with AI tools, it has saved over 227,000 working hours annually, increased efficiency, shortened timelines, and strengthened governance and performance tracking. This platform has also fostered a centralised, data-driven environment that encourages staff engagement and drives the continuous evolution of services in line with global best practices.
Dubai Culture’s recognition is attributed to its adoption of future-focused initiatives and effective use of AI across key sectors, demonstrating its commitment to Dubai’s digital strategy and contributing to the city’s ongoing transformation journey. Mansoor Lootah, CEO of the Corporate Enablement Sector and Chief AI Officer at Dubai Culture, emphasized that these awards showcase the Authority’s success in applying government standards for data efficiency, process automation, and smart tools, aligning with Dubai’s vision for future-ready leadership. The recognition enhances the Authority’s distinguished record, highlighting the strength of its systems and its focus on frameworks that advance creativity and excellence in the arts and culture sector.
The 11th International Best Practice Competition attracted entries from government bodies, private companies, and non-profit organizations across sectors such as culture, healthcare, education, energy, transport, and finance. Participants hailed from over 14 countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, China, Eswatini, Costa Rica, Spain, and New Zealand. Submissions underwent a rigorous evaluation process by an international panel of experts, with awards graded from one to seven stars based on clarity of objectives, measurable results, innovation, and potential for scalability.