Objectives

The National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity invests in creative professionals who play an integral role in the nation’s collective efforts towards building a sustainable creative economy for future generations.

The programme aims to:

1. support the UAE’s creative professionals to enhance their creative, intellectual and professional growth at critical stages of their careers
2. promote and preserve the UAE’s national identity and heritage through cultural productions
3. build a robust talent pool in the country to enrich the UAE’s creative economy.

Grant fields

The National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity will support seven fields, which are:

1. Books and Literature
2. Music
3. Film and TV
4. Performing arts and theatre
5. Visual arts and design
6. Video games
7. Cultural heritage.

Grant categories

The programme offers grants in four categories, catering to the specific needs of creatives. The four categories are:

1. Creation and production grant (up to AED 100,000): This grant is designed to finance the production of new and original artistic and creative works across various mediums, such as film, music, performances and video games. It supports projects that demonstrate artistic excellence, creative appeal and a unique vision or concept.
2. Distribution and local participations grant (up to AED 80,000): This grant supports the promotion, distribution, and publication of creative projects to increase visibility for locally produced artworks and creative projects. It also aims to encourage creatives to take part in local opportunities and events through supporting associated participation costs.
3. Capacity development grant (up to AED 50,000): This grant aims to support the professional growth of applicants by supporting unique learning opportunities that upskill and enhance creatives’ skills and talent through opportunities such as short-courses, residencies, specialised training from recognised institutions, and similar development opportunities.
4. International travel and mobility grant (up to AED 50,000): This grant supports creatives to participate in international events and opportunities by funding costs of travel, accommodation and participation to represent the UAE on global platforms. It aims to increase the global presence of the UAE’s creative sector and can cover associated fees for participation in festivals, exhibitions, international collaborations and more.

Read related news coverage on WAM and on the website of Ministry of Culture & Youth.