Over the decades, the Society evolved from an educational space into a vibrant cultural movement, one that inspires creativity and responds to the aspirations of its community.
In 2023, ZAD for Arts was launched as a continuation of this path, representing the cultural arm of the Arab Cultural Society and Samir Abdel Hadi Fund for Culture and Arts. ZAD for Arts aims to enrich the diversity and vitality of Jordan’s cultural landscape and support performing arts, drawing inspiration from Arab cultural roots, a rich source of thought, creativity, and identity.
Supporting Culture
ZAD for Arts supports Jordan’s cultural scene through two main streams:
◆ Developing the skills of youth in theater, music, and dance through Ibda' Scholarship Fund for Performing Arts, as well as projects hosted by ZAD for Arts, which include ZAD Music Academy and the Arab Community Orchestra.
◆ Building strategic partnerships with independent cultural institutions to strengthen their sustainability, foster creative environments, and expand their reach and impact.
Samir Abdel Hadi Fund for Culture and Arts
Guided by a vision deeply rooted in the power of culture, Samir Abdel Hadi Fund for Culture and Arts provided a generous grant to the Arab Cultural Society to launch ZAD for Arts, an initiative that embodies a vibrant space for the arts and an investment in people and their capacity to express, imagine, and drive change.
While studying in Beirut, he engaged in cultural dialogue and student journalism, believing that the arts are not merely tools of expression but powerful forces for social change and cross-border connection. He dedicated his life to supporting cultural and educational institutions in Jordan and Palestine and served on the boards of many leading organizations, combining his progressive vision and engineering expertise to champion culture, the arts, and their long-term sustainability.
Arab Cultural Society
Since 1967, the Arab Cultural Society has played a pivotal role in advancing educational, cultural, and social development in Jordan. Through decades of work and commitment, the Society has evolved from an educational institution into a hub for creativity and cultural renewal, founding pioneering initiatives that have helped shape Jordan’s cultural landscape.
Key milestones in the Society’s journey:
◆ 1975: Establishment of Al-Ra'ed Al-Arabi School, which welcomes more than 1,200 students annually and fosters a spirit of creativity, leadership, and social responsibility.
◆ 1989: Launch of “Turath” initiative to preserve the art of embroidery, culminating in 2018 with the opening of a permanent exhibition, “Kermaz”, dedicated to handmade embroidery.
◆ 2016: Launch of “Ibda'” initiative to promote theater and music education at Al-Ra'ed Al-Arabi School, laying the foundation for what would later become ZAD for Arts.
