Mai Al Khalifa is a prominent international figure recognized for her pioneering work in culture, art, and sustainable development. Named one of Forbes’ 50 most influential Arab women in 2005, she has consistently championed the role of culture as a driver of sustainable progress. In 2006, she launched the groundbreaking Invest in Culture initiative—an unprecedented program in the MENA region that fosters partnerships between the public and private sectors. This initiative has successfully mobilized over US$150 million in support of cultural tourism projects. A major milestone under her leadership was Bahrain’s receipt of the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 2019 for the revitalization of Muharraq’s historic town. Her contributions to linking culture, tourism, and sustainability earned her the title of UNWTO Special Ambassador for the International Year of Sustainable Tourism for Development in 2017. As the head of the Bahrain Authority for Culture & Antiquities, she has elevated the country’s heritage tourism, with three sites now listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Al Khalifa has received numerous accolades for her leadership and cultural vision, including the Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur, the Watch Award from the World Monuments Fund, and the Colbert Prize for Creativity and Heritage. She was also honored with the ‘Distinguished Arab Woman in the Field of Administrative Leadership’ award by the Center of Woman Studies in Paris and the Arab League Prize for Administrative Competence and Excellence. Her recent efforts focus on revitalizing the craft sector and nurturing creative local economies aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Al Khalifa remains a leading voice in cultural policy, renowned for her ability to bridge heritage, innovation, and socio-economic development.