UAE Creative Sector Emergency Support Programme

Dear creative practitioners across the UAE,

Art Jameel and Dubai Culture invite creative practitioners across the UAE to apply for the latest edition of the Art Jameel Research and Practice Platform (RPP) 2026.

The Research and Practice Platform is a rapid-response micro-grants programme supporting locally-based creative practitioners, providing timely support for you to sustain and develop your creative practice.

Launched originally in 2020 in response to the needs of the creative community, the programme has evolved alongside the sector and is now the largest micro-grants initiative of its kind in the UAE. This particular edition has been developed to respond to the evolving needs of creative practitioners across Dubai and the UAE. 

Who can apply?

The programme is open to UAE nationals and residents working across a broad range of creative disciplines, including:  

• Visual arts and interdisciplinary practices

• Design

• Illustration

• Architecture

• Photography and filmmaking

• Writing, publishing and research

• Music and performance

• Cultural production and curatorial practices

• Digital and emerging media

Fashion, craft and material-based practices

Applications are welcome from individuals, collaborative practices and small collectives.

Before you apply

To be eligible, you must: 

• Be based in the UAE

• Be aged 18 or over

• Hold a valid Emirates ID and UAE bank account

Be actively engaged in a cultural or creative practice

Applications are accepted now and anytime until 23:59 UAE time on July 31, 2026.

What you’ll receive

Successful applicants – selected through a rigorous, independent jury process – will:

• Receive an AED 10,000 micro-grant

• Join the Research and Practice Platform network

• Access mentorship, professional development opportunities and participation in future programmes at Jameel Arts Centre, including Creative Careers Days