Arab World Institute

About

The Institute of the Arab World (IMA) is a French cultural institute dedicated to the Arab world. It is located in the heart of Paris, in the 5th arrondissement. The building is designed by a group of architects (Jean Nouvel, Gilbert Lézénès (d), Pierre Soria and Architecture-Studio) who attempt a synthesis between Arab culture and Western culture.

Although the construction of this building is part of the policy of major works desired by the President of the Republic, François Mitterrand, it is decided under the septennium of its predecessor, Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, with a view to improving diplomatic relations between France and the Arab nations. The IMA was inaugurated in 1987 by President Mitterrand. The library of the Arab World Institute is one of the largest European libraries dedicated to Arab culture and civilization.

A private foundation financed mainly by the French State, the Arab World Institute also receives financial support from several Arab League countries. In 2016, he opened an antenna in Tourcoing. The IMA has been chaired by French diplomat Anne-Claire Legendre since 2026, and led by Iraqi poet Chawki Abdelamir since...