The Middle East Institute (MEI), with the support of Art Jameel, and in partnership with Culturunners and Desert Storm, hosted an evening highlighting the cutting-edge cultural scene emerging from the Gulf.

The evening program, held at Busboys and Poets in D.C., included the screening of Saudi Arabian artist Ahmed Mater's acclaimed work on the cities of Mecca and Riyadh, a live music performance by the Kuwaiti-born, California-based rap group, Sons of Yusuf, a discussion with Emirati artist and curator, Noor al Suwaidi, and a conversation about the role of the arts in breaking stereotypes, bridging cultural understanding, and empowering youth from the region.

Stephen Stapleton, director of Culturunners, and co-founder of Edge of Arabia, moderated.