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Founded in 2010, the International Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (IICD) is a leading organization dedicated to advancing the understanding and practice of cultural diplomacy, particularly within the Gulf Region. Over the past decade, IICD has established itself as a vital resource for educating, creating awareness, and training individuals across various sectors about the significance of cultural diplomacy and the value it brings to national and international relations.
As the Gulf Region continues to expand its global presence and welcome a growing number of foreign workers, the importance of fostering mutual understanding between cultures has never been greater. Industries such as hospitality, healthcare, energy, and education are increasingly dependent on a workforce that understands and respects the cultural differences of people from around the world. IICD plays a critical role in helping these industries, and the population at large, embrace this cultural exchange.
Founder & Chairman IICD
Dr.Mohamed Kamil Al Muaini is a professional leader with over twenty-five years of professional experience in the fields of literature, art, cultural diplomacy and social affairs. He is seconded to the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi in 2015 to support in its social initiatives as part of the social development strategy the government of Abu Dhabi is implementing. Currently, he works as the Founder and Chairman of Global Centre for Cultural Communication in Abu Dhabi and International Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (IICD) in Dubai. From 2003 - 2008 he worked in the private department of His Highness Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Director of Planning and Control Department. From 2000-2003 he was an English-Arabic Translator with United Arab Emirates Army Force, Abu Dhabi. From 1998-1999 he was director of Financial and Administrative Affairs Unit, Supreme Council for Family Affairs in Sharjah. From 1997-1998 he worked in the Private Department of H.H. Shaikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi Director of Archive Division. From 1994-1996 he worked in Military Attaché’s Office of the UAE Embassy in London as London In-House Newspaper Editor.
Director of Research
Director of Global Engagement
Fatmah has many years of experience in the field of Diplomacy whilst working at the Embassy of the Kingdom of Morocco in London for many years. She then carried on working in the field of Diplomacy in a Managerial post for the smooth running of the Masters in Diplomacy, at a Higher Education level, at the University of Westminster, University of East Anglia and Loughborough University London. She is very capable in organizing International Conferences in London and Abu Dhabi. Her approach and support to students is commendable.
Advisor IICD
Abdulrahman Abdullah Naqi Al Bastaki is a Journalist in Media and Social Activist. He is currently studying a PhD at the University of Sharjah. In 2021 he was the Director of the Department of Communication and Media at the Abu Dhabi Water and Electricity Authority. In 2022 he was a Member of the International Institute for Diplomatic Culture in Dubai. He was the Media Advisor at “We are all Emirates Association”, the Emirates Chemical Society and the Emirates Inventors Association and the “Union Arab Volunteering and the College of Media at Al Ghurair University”. Founding member of the Gulf Human and Environmental Development Association. Editor-in-Chief of the Emirates News Network” in Abu Dhabi. Founder of the Information Agency for Public Relations and Advertising. He was awarded the “best Investigative Journalism Award" by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, in the first session of the "Taryam Award" Abdullah Omran Al-Sahafa. Author of The Guide to International Days and The Annual Educational Guide for the UAE.
Advisor IICD
Robinder N. Sachdev is a globally acclaimed authority on geopolitics, public diplomacy, and American culture, as well as a prominent media personality with over 10,000 appearances and interviews on leading television networks and in prestigious publications worldwide. Most recently, he authored the groundbreaking book Trumpotopia: A Guidebook to Decode Donald Trump and the Culture of America, With Tips for World Leaders, published in November 2024. A former adjunct faculty member at American University in Washington, D.C., where he taught courses on culture and international relations, Robinder was recognized in the Summer 2021 issue of the prestigious Journal of the American Political Science Association as one of the nine most influential Indian Americans of the past 90 years, for his instrumental role in advancing the historic U.S.-India nuclear deal. Robinder’s expertise bridges research, thought leadership, and practical impact, making him a sought-after advisor and strategist. Over the past 25 years, he has led transformative initiatives in public, economic, and cultural diplomacy and designed and delivered bespoke programs on global leadership and intercultural risk management for senior leaders across government, politics, and business. His work and clients span continents, including the United States, Europe, the Middle East, India, South Korea, and Japan. In recognition of his extensive experience in global public diplomacy, Robinder was appointed Chairman of the Sub-Committee on Peace Diplomacy between South Korea and North Korea on the sidelines of the Winter Youth Olympics 2024, held in Gangwon, South Korea. Originally an electrical engineer by training and a computer software professional in his early career, Robinder was appointed as a software advisor reporting directly to the Prime Minister of India at the young age of 25. He later founded a telecom start-up in Northern Virginia, which he exited following the tragic events of 9/11, pivoting his career to focus on the world of geopolitics.
IICD provides in-depth training on cultural sensitivity, ensuring that individuals and organizations understand the socio-political, historical, and economic contexts of the cultures they interact with. This training is particularly beneficial for industries in the Gulf that employ a diverse international workforce.
Recognizing the importance of cultural diplomacy in international relations, IICD offers specialized courses aimed at diplomats and government officials. These courses equip participants with the tools to engage effectively in cross-cultural negotiations, international diplomacy, and global partnerships.
As industries like hospitality, healthcare, and energy grow more interconnected with foreign markets and workforces, IICD offers tailored programs for corporate leaders and professionals. These programs focus on building intercultural competence, improving communication, and fostering collaboration between international teams.
IICD is committed to nurturing the next generation of cultural diplomats. Through youth programs, educational partnerships, and scholarships, the institute encourages young people to become global citizens who understand and appreciate cultural diversity and its role in shaping future societies.
Cultural diplomacy plays a crucial role in fostering peaceful international relationships by using culture to bridge divides and enhance mutual respect. In the Gulf Region, where diverse foreign populations shape key sectors, understanding global cultures is essential for social cohesion and competitiveness. IICD’s programs empower participants with skills to engage in cultural diplomacy, promoting environments where cultural diversity and international collaboration thrive.
In alignment with the UAE’s Vision 2071, IICD is dedicated to preparing the Gulf Region for a future centered on innovation, sustainability, and global collaboration. By embedding cultural diplomacy into its mission, IICD supports the UAE’s goal of being a leader in fostering international dialogue, ensuring that the nation’s progress is deeply rooted in cultural understanding and mutual respect.
Through its educational initiatives, IICD contributes to building a knowledge-based economy by promoting cultural diplomacy as an essential skill for leaders and professionals in the Gulf and beyond. The institute’s programs aim to nurture a generation of global-minded individuals who will champion the values of cultural diplomacy, working toward a more inclusive and peaceful world.
