ALECSO Chair for Valorizing Joint Arab and International Work in the Field of Safeguarding Intangible Heritage
The Arab Museum of
Culture & Heritage
A permanent cultural diplomatic platform in Arab/Islamic architectural style in the heart of the United States — a civilizational bridge presenting Arab heritage to the Western world
Museum Vision
The Arab Museum of Culture and Heritage in Savannah, Georgia, is an ambitious strategic project aimed at establishing the first permanent Arab museum in the United States, designed in authentic Arab and Islamic architectural style.
The museum seeks to be a cultural diplomacy platform, presenting Arab civilization in all its diversity and richness to American and international audiences, enhancing intercultural dialogue and correcting misconceptions about the Arab world.
Why Savannah?
Museum Wings
Five integrated wings presenting Arab heritage in an interactive and scientific manner
Clothing & Jewelry Wing
Exhibits of traditional costumes from various Arab countries with explanations of cultural symbols and meanings
- Libyan traditional dress — Farmla & Nazla
- Gulf, Levantine & Maghrebi costumes
- Traditional jewelry & ornaments
Food & Cuisine Wing
Interactive displays of Arab cuisine as a skill and knowledge passed down through generations
- Interactive traditional cooking demonstrations
- Map of Arab culinary diversity
- Authentic Arab dish tasting experience
Dance & Chants Wing
Documentation and display of living performing arts including dance, singing, Zaghareet, and folk music
- Arab Zaghareet from various countries
- Arab folk dances
- Traditional music & folk instruments
Dialogue & Education Center
Lecture hall and workshops for cultural, diplomatic, and academic events
- Regular cultural lectures & seminars
- Educational programs for schools & universities
- Intercultural dialogue events
Artisan Craft Shop
Space for selling authentic Arab products to support artisans and provide a sustainable income source for the museum
- Authentic Arab craft products
- Cultural books & publications
- Arab-style souvenirs & gifts
Project Financial Analysis
Construction & Operating Costs
| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Construction | $12.5M – $15M |
| Architecture & Engineering | $2.5M – $3M |
| Total Capital Costs | $15M – $18M |
| Salaries & Staff (Annual) | $1.8M – $2.4M |
| Maintenance & Utilities (Annual) | $0.75M – $1M |
| Programs & Marketing (Annual) | $0.45M – $0.6M |
| Total Annual Operating | $3M – $4M |
Expected Annual Revenue
Contribute to Building the Arab Museum
The Arab Museum in Savannah will be the first permanent Arab cultural diplomatic platform in the United States. Your donations transform this vision into reality and contribute to building a civilizational bridge between East and West.
✅ ALECSO Chair is 501(c)(3) tax-exempt · EIN: 93-2394267 · Donations are fully tax-deductible in the USA