Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has launched an open call for the ‘Creative Spaces’ initiative, offering free, multi-purpose workspaces to the creative community in collaboration with key public and private sector partners. The programme is part of the Creative Sector Resilience Portfolio, launched by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture.
The Portfolio seeks to strengthen the resilience of Dubai’s cultural ecosystem, safeguard the emirate’s creative economy, and reinforce the city’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.
‘Creative Spaces’ is open to artists, designers, cultural practitioners, and researchers, as well as studios, creative collectives, small businesses, and start-ups operating in the cultural and creative industries. Students in the fields of arts, design, and related disciplines are also eligible to apply.
Participants will have access to free spaces across Dubai Culture’s assets and various locations in the emirate, in collaboration with the Authority’s strategic partners. Spaces are allocated for two weeks to three months to support the development of creative projects and practices, facilitate training workshops, and help participants build professional networks that enhance their visibility and advance their careers.
Applications will be accepted until 30 May 2026, after which a specialised committee will review submissions and select participants based on a set of criteria, including that applicants must be UAE residents actively engaged in the cultural and creative industries. Applicants are also required to provide proof of their experience and practice, such as a portfolio, professional account, student card, trade licence, or equivalent documentation. Entries must include a clear explanation of the intended use of the space and a commitment to comply with the programme’s guidelines, requirements, and handover terms.
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design & Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, described ‘Creative Spaces’ as a central initiative under the Creative Sector Resilience Portfolio, contributing directly to the growth of the cultural and creative industries. She said: “The programme reflects our commitment to investing in creative talent and enhancing their contribution to Dubai’s cultural landscape. We will continue advancing our mandate of enabling the sector by launching initiatives that strengthen the resilience and preparedness of the creative ecosystem, foster environments that stimulate innovation, and provide creatives with opportunities to develop their projects within an integrated setting that supports production and experimentation.”
Al Suwaidi added: “This programme also demonstrates the value of cross-sector partnerships in opening new avenues for collaboration. By providing the right platforms, we can empower talented individuals to deliver exceptional creative experiences and establish projects that contribute meaningful value to the local economy.”
Available spaces include studios, offices, meeting rooms, workshop and exhibition areas, and co-working facilities, as well as spaces provided by programme partners. Final allocation will depend on eligibility, availability, suitability of use, and compliance with all applicable safety regulations, location-specific restrictions, and partner requirements. Successful applicants will receive confirmation from Dubai Culture granting access to their allocated space upon signing the participation undertaking, reviewing site guidelines, and completing the required procedures.
2026.05.19 Stockholm
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