The UAE Ministry of Culture has launched the fifth cycle of its National Grant Programme for Culture and Creativity, a key national initiative designed to support and fund impactful projects from Emirati talent. The program reinforces the Ministry’s strategy to cultivate a supportive environment for creatives, helping them turn innovative concepts into market-ready projects.
Quick Facts
- Fifth grant cycle is now open for applications.
- The program supports a wide range of creative fields.
- Application deadline is set for June 26, 2026.
Fostering a Knowledge-Based Creative Economy
The initiative is central to the UAE’s vision of building an innovation-driven creative economy. It provides direct support to local talent, aiming to elevate the quality and reach of national creative output on both local and international stages.
His Excellency Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, commented on the launch, stating, “The National Grant Programme for Culture and Creativity reflects our ongoing commitment to empowering creatives to make meaningful contributions to the cultural and artistic landscape. This initiative is guided by our firm belief that culture is a cornerstone of comprehensive development and a bridge connecting national identity with cultural openness.”
He added, “Through this programme, we provide Emirati creatives with opportunities to develop high-quality projects and transform their ideas into tangible work that enriches the UAE’s cultural landscape.”
A Closer Look at the Grant Categories
The program offers a structured support framework divided into four distinct categories: Creation and Production, Distribution and Local Participation, Capacity Development, and International Travel and Mobility.
These grants cover a broad spectrum of creative industries, including writing and publishing, music, film and television, performing arts and theatre, visual arts and design, video games, and cultural heritage. This comprehensive support enables beneficiaries to produce new work, participate in key cultural events, and attend international festivals to expand their project’s reach.
A Track Record of Growing Impact
Since its launch, the program has seen a steady increase in engagement from the creative community. The first cycle supported 26 creatives, a number that grew to 43 in the second and 44 in the third.
In December 2025, the Ministry announced 41 beneficiaries for the fourth cycle, which saw a significant 77.6% jump in applications compared to previous cycles, highlighting the growing demand for such ecosystem support.
About the National Grant Programme for Culture and Creativity
The National Grant Programme for Culture and Creativity is an initiative by the UAE’s Ministry of Culture dedicated to empowering and funding Emirati creatives. It provides an integrated framework to help transform innovative ideas into tangible projects that contribute to the UAE’s cultural and creative economy.
Source: Zawya
