Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has launched an open call for participation in the Arabic Typography Masterclass, organised in partnership with Visual Synonyms. The programme aims to open new creative horizons for talented practitioners, enabling them to explore the artistic potential of Arabic letterforms and reinterpret them in contemporary design.
Through an educational experience that combines academic knowledge with practical application, the programme seeks to strengthen the presence of Arabic typography in the global visual landscape, aligning with Dubai Culture’s sectoral priorities and commitment to supporting talent and reinforcing the emirate’s position as a global centre for the creative economy.
Led by Dr Antoine Abi Aad, Associate Professor at the College of Arts and Creative Enterprises at Zayed University, the programme will enable a select group of UAE nationals and residents to advance their skills through a series of specialised masterclasses, mentorship sessions, interactive workshops and practical assignments. The programme will be delivered either over two consecutive weeks or across five weekends.
Commenting on the programme, Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, highlighted the importance of the Arabic Typography Masterclass and its role in supporting local talent and enabling practitioners to explore contemporary artistic approaches to reimagining Arabic calligraphy’s aesthetics.
She said: “The programme represents an innovative platform that enables practitioners and designers to rediscover Arabic letterforms as a creative element that brings together the authenticity of heritage and contemporary design. It opens new possibilities for participants to develop their ideas and create distinctive works that contribute to the growth of the cultural and creative industries.”
Participants will embark on a process of research and experimentation that begins with analysing the visual language of Japanese identity marks and culminates in the creation of contemporary typographic works rooted in Arabic letterforms. This approach will enable them to develop projects that reflect their individual artistic perspectives and strengthen their ability to produce work with both intellectual and visual value.
Dubai Culture has invited graphic designers and professional design practitioners to apply for the programme. It is aimed at working professionals with between three and ten years of experience, a solid working knowledge of Adobe Illustrator, and an ambition to advance their practice in Arabic typography.
Applications will be open from 1st to 20th of September, and a committee comprising experts and artists will review them and select participants who meet the programme’s requirements.
Applicants are required to submit their resumes with their applications, along with a creative portfolio of their key artworks and completed design projects. They must also commit to attending all programme sessions, which will take place during October and November.
Al Suwaidi added that the programme reflects Dubai Culture’s commitment to strengthening collaboration between the academic and creative sectors by introducing specialised initiatives that highlight Arabic typography and expand its applications across various design fields.
2026.09.01 Stockholm
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