His Highness Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority presented the “Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Patrons of the Arts” award to Alpen Capital and Bank Sarasin-Alpen on 13th May 2013 at an awards ceremony held at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel.

Alpen Capital and Bank Sarasin-Alpen are long standing patrons of the arts and organise the Global Fusion concert annually. Global Fusion brings together artistes from various musical genres and showcases the best in traditional and contemporary music. It has become a much sought after event in the Dubai social calendar and is known for its selection of musical maestros from all over the globe.

Global Fusion also provides a platform to promote talented local musicians in the Middle East by giving them an opportunity to perform with world renowned musicians. The Dubai Fusion event in January 2013 featured a performance by Emirati artiste Faisal Al Saari on the Oudh, who successfully integrated his Middle Eastern tones along with the international artistes present at the fusion. Over the years, Emirati musicians such as Adel Khumais, Ali Obeid, Khawla Al Rayhy and Fatima Al Hashemi have performed at the Global Fusion concert in Dubai.

To date, of the 18 fusion concerts that have been organized in the region, nine have been held in Dubai.

Rohit Walia, Executive Vice Chairman & CEO, Bank Sarasin Alpen and Alpen Capital Group "The Patrons of the Arts award is a recognition of our commitment to support arts and music in the UAE. Over the years, Global Fusion has also evolved as a platform to promote local talent. We are proud to be recipients of the Patrons of the Arts award for the fourth year in a row."

The Patrons of the Arts Award was instituted in March 2009 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai to honour and recognize individuals, businesses, organizations and government entities that have demonstrated financial and in kind contributions towards the arts in Dubai through sustained support and promotion of artistic activity. Contributions were recognized in the disciplines of visual arts, film, literature and performing arts during 2010. The awards honoured patrons in the following categories: 'Distinguished Patrons of the Arts,' 'Patrons of the Arts,' 'Supporters of the Arts,’ and 'Friends of the Arts' based on their contribution.

View the gallery of photos taken during the event below: