A new regional benchmark designed to measure the economic and social impact of culture and creativity on urban development was unveiled at the World Governments Summit (WGS) in Dubai, marking a first for the Arab world.
The Arab Cities Culture & Creative Industries Index is the first tool of its kind developed specifically to assess how culture, heritage, creative industries, and innovation contribute to city growth, competitiveness,s and economic resilience across Arab cities. Experts say the index fills a long-standing gap in data-driven policy tools for the region’s creative economy.
Unveiled during discussions at the summit, the index evaluates cities across multiple dimensions, including cultural infrastructure, creative workforce, policy frameworks, investment climate, innovation capacity, and community engagement. It aims to help governments, urban planners, and investors understand how creative sectors – from arts and design to media, gaming, and digital content – can drive sustainable development.
According to organisers, the index is not intended as a simple ranking system but as a diagnostic and planning tool. Cities can use the findings to identify strengths, gaps, and opportunities, guiding policy reforms and targeted investments that support long-term cultural and economic growth.
Experts speaking at WGS highlighted that creative industries are increasingly recognised as key economic drivers, contributing to job creation, tourism, urban regeneration,n and global competitiveness. In many Arab cities, culture-led development is already reshaping districts, revitalising heritage areas, and attracting international talent.
The launch comes as governments across the region place greater emphasis on diversifying economies beyond oil, investing in creative ecosystems, and positioning cities as global cultural hubs. By providing comparable data and insights, the index is expected to support evidence-based decision-making and cross-city collaboration.
Officials said future editions of the index will expand coverage and refine indicators as more data becomes available, creating a dynamic framework that evolves alongside the region’s creative economy.
As Arab cities compete for talent, investment, and global influence, the new index signals a growing recognition that culture and creativity are not soft assets – but strategic economic pillars.
