Ammon News - Amman witnessed the successful closing of the " Arab DIVAS" Exhibition on Thursday, February 20, 2025. The exhibition, organized by Friends of Jordan Festivals and curated by the Arab World Institute, and in collaboration with the Anna Lindh Foundation, was inaugurated on November 7, 2024, by Her Royal Highness Princess Rym Ali, at Ras Al Ain Gallery in the Jordanian capital, Amman.

The thoughtfully curated Arab Divas Exhibition attracted a diverse number of visitors of various ages and nationalities and students, offering a culturally rich educational experience to explore the artistic heritage of the Arab world and celebrate the strength, creativity, and success of Arab women.

Her Royal Highness Princess Rym Ali expressed her pride that Amman is the first Arab capital to host the "The Arab DIVAS" Exhibition. She added, “The Arab Divas exhibition wrapped up after receiving 10,000 visitors, It was wonderful to see the number of people who visited the Divas exhibit, and also to see their reactions, there were those who were nostalgic, who sang along with the videos as they reminisce the past; others among the younger visitors were amazed to discover this part of their Arab cultural heritage with which they were not so familiar before, in particular as they learned about the extraordinary journeys of the Divas and their roles in Arab society”.

The Arab Divas Exhibition showcased rare photographs, film posters, dresses, personal belongings, and exclusive archival interviews featuring iconic figures such as Oum Kalthoum, Fairuz, Warda, Asmahan, and Dalida. Visitors explored the legacies of these remarkable women, whose influence on music, film, and theater continues to inspire generations.

Mr. Raja Gargour, the exhibition's Creative Consultant, reflected on its significance: "The Arab Divas exhibition reminded us of the deep cultural impact that Arab singers had over the past century and the historic role of women in the Arab world, something we sometimes overlook. It is time for music and art to rise again as a tool of Arab world outreach."

Beyond its historical focus, the exhibition also served as a platform for Jordanian artists, blending local contemporary works with the timeless legacies of the divas. This integration highlighted how Arab women continue to influence art, music, and creative industries today.

The exhibition featured a range of satellite events, including panel discussions and round tables, film screenings, art workshops, and family activities. These initiatives enriched the exhibition’s narrative by highlighting the role of women in shaping Arab cultural identity and promoting cultural preservation and gender empowerment.

Ms. Noha Bawazir, Director of the UNESCO Office in Jordan, highlighted the importance of such initiatives: "UNESCO, as an organization committed to fostering cultural diversity and safeguarding heritage, has always sought to celebrate the powerful role of women in the arts. Arab Divas was not just an exhibition but a tribute to the transformative and pioneering figures of Arab women who have shaped the cultural landscape of the Arab world. By recognizing the extraordinary talents of these divas, we affirm the importance of cultural exchange and the need to nurture an inclusive environment where the voices of all, especially women, are heard and valued."

Believing in its societal responsibility, FJF donated the exhibition's holdings to recycling associations to protect the environment."

The exhibition was sponsored by the Jordan Tourism Board, the Greater Amman Municipality, UNESCO in Jordan, and Royal Jordanian, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, the French Institute in Jordan, the Royal Film Commission, and Darat Al Tasweer.

And was supported by Jeeny, JETT, SAE Institute, Rainbow Theater, Ayla Oasis, Geroma, NGI Event Production, Jordan Kuwait Bank, 7 Hills, Orange, in addition to the media partners: Roya Media Group, Mazaj FM, and Modern Media.

As Amman bids farewell to the Arab Divas Exhibition, its legacy remains. The stories of these extraordinary women will continue to inspire future generations of artists, musicians, and creatives, proving that their voices are timeless and their influence, everlasting.