The 9th edition of Art Connects Women (ACW) takes inspiration from the landmark UNESCO World Conference on Culture and Arts Education, held in Abu Dhabi from 13–15 February 2024. This pivotal gathering led to the creation of the UNESCO Framework for Culture and Arts Education, reinforcing the belief that arts and culture are not only central to human expression but also essential tools for shaping sustainable, inclusive, and innovative societies.

In this spirit, ACW 2026 embraces the theme “Educate to Empower”, highlighting the transformative role of education in unleashing human potential. Education—formal, informal, and experiential—has the power to open doors, dismantle barriers, and equip women with the skills, confidence, and opportunities to thrive. Within the creative industry, education is more than knowledge transfer: it is about nurturing imagination, building resilience, and empowering women artists to lead, innovate, and influence.

By aligning with this global vision, ACW underscores the urgent need to place arts education at the core of empowerment. Through creativity, storytelling, and cultural diversity, the exhibition amplifies women’s voices, nurtures intergenerational dialogue, and inspires a future where education and empowerment are inseparable.

This edition invites the world to reflect on how art and education together can shape leadership, drive economic growth, and foster gender equality, reaffirming ACW’s mission to position the UAE as a hub of artistic excellence and cultural diplomacy.