The Kanoo Group Sponsors Historic Finland-UAE Cultural Celebration
The Kanoo Group was honored to sponsor a special evening celebrating 50 years of friendship between Finland and the United Arab Emirates at the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library in Dubai.
Building Bridges Through Innovation
Before the concert, the Embassy of Finland hosted an exclusive high-level AI Majlis in Dubai that united Finland's leading AI innovators with the UAE's most forward-thinking leaders and strategists. Organized in partnership with Business Finland, this timely gathering brought together Finnish and UAE companies, including The Kanoo Group, to explore future partnerships and opportunities in artificial intelligence.
Inspired by the ancient Finnish epic Kalevala, the program unfolded as a theatrical journey through Acts I to III, blending mythic storytelling with cutting-edge insights into human–AI collaboration. This unique format created a meaningful platform for open dialogue and connection between nations.
Fifty Years of Shared Values
Ambassador Tula Johanna Yrjölä of Finland reflected on the unique bond between the two nations. Though one country is shaped by forests and lakes while the other rises from deserts and coastlines, both share core values: curiosity, respect, innovation, and a belief that strong societies are built when people thrive together.
This partnership began long before official relations. Finnish explorers traveled to the region in the 1840s, collecting Bedouin poetry. When the UAE was founded, Finland was among the first countries to establish diplomatic ties, showing a spirit of openness that continues today.
Looking Ahead
The next fifty years hold exciting possibilities for Finland-UAE cooperation:
- Advancing artificial intelligence and clean technology
- Building climate resilience and circular economy solutions
- Deepening cultural, educational, and scientific partnerships
- Creating human-centered solutions for a better world
A Night of Music and Connection
Inside one of Dubai's most inspiring cultural spaces, Finland shared its rich heritage with the UAE through an unforgettable musical performance. The Lohja City Orchestra, led by conductor Jukka Untamala, took guests on a journey through Nordic landscapes. They were joined by Emirati soprano Fatima Alhashimi, Finnish cellist Jussi Makkonen, and pianist Nazig Azezian, creating a beautiful blend of cultures and traditions through music.
The Kanoo Group's Sponsorship
By special invitation, The Kanoo Group proudly sponsored this milestone celebration, led by Business Development Manager Mahmood Mian. The evening showcased how business, culture, and diplomacy come together to strengthen international partnerships.
In attendance from The Kanoo Group was Kanoo Energy GM Raman Marwaha, Kanoo Shipping COO Steve Blackney, Kanoo Logistics Head of Commercial & Global Network Fadi Ayoub, Kanoo Shipping VP Capt. Pramod Arora, and Kanoo Machinery-UAE Regional Business Head Ram Mahajan.
The event reminded all attendees that diplomacy isn't just about signed agreements—it lives in shared experiences, mutual respect, and the harmonies we create together.
