United Arab Emirates, Dubai, 28 April 2015: His Excellency Engineer Essa Al Maidoor, Chairman of Noor Dubai Foundation, inaugurated today at Zabeel Ladies Club, the 5^th edition of Noor Dubai Foundation’s Art4Sight charity exhibition and auction which aims to support global blindness prevention programs.

He was accompanied by Saeed Mohamed Al Naboodah, Director General of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority and Dr Manal Taryam, CEO of Noor Dubai Foundation.

The art exhibition and auction received several artworks from local and international artists, who were present during the inaugural ceremony. The artists have donated their artworks for this exhibition and auction to support Noor Dubai’s global blindness prevention, treatment and educational programs.

During the exhibition participating artists spoke about their artwork and why they have donated their artwork to support the Foundation’s blindness prevention efforts.

Since the inception of the charity in 2008, Noor Dubai has reached out to 23 million patients around the world and has provided eyeglasses, screening programs and surgeries.

Dr Taryam said: “We are thankful to all the artists, art galleries and auction houses for their support and encouragement. Our programs in countries of need are not limited to restoration of sight; we also support patients who are unable to afford eye medication and glasses with an aim to prevent further deterioration of their condition. Through this program we hope to make a positive difference to their lives and the lives of their family members. Providing the gift of sight aids both economic and social development in countries of need.”

She also said that the exhibition has grown significantly over the last five years

This year’s exhibition and auction is being held with the participation of 34 artists who have donated 44 pieces of artwork to support blindness prevention, treatment, education and training.

This exhibition is supported by Zabeel Ladies Club, Tashkheel studio and the auction is managed by Christie’s International.