Paolo Petrocelli

Paolo Petrocelli is an accomplished arts and cultural leader currently serving as Head of Dubai Opera since February 2023, where responsibilities include managing the performing arts center and establishing its artistic vision. Recognized as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and as one of the top 30 leaders under 40 by Arabian Business, Paolo also holds prestigious titles such as European Young Leader with Friends of Europe and Most Creative Person in Business - Middle East by Fast Company. As the founder and president of EMMA for Peace, an influential nonprofit advocating for music diplomacy, Paolo has organized numerous international projects in collaboration with major global institutions. Paolo's extensive education includes executive leadership training at the University of Oxford and a PhD in Cultural Economics, alongside various degrees in music and literature from respected universities.