The organization won the Gold Award for Innovative HR Team of the Year, reflecting its efforts in enhancing collaboration and advancing HR strategies. Additionally, Mohammed Obaid Al Marri, Director of the Human Resources Department, received the Silver Award for HR Professional of the Year for his leadership in developing impactful HR practices.

Strengthening Employee Growth and Engagement

Dubai Culture actively implements programs designed to empower employees and enhance productivity. By equipping its workforce with essential skills, the Authority fosters a culture of continuous learning. Furthermore, it upholds a transparent management system that encourages trust and efficiency.

Expressing his pride, Al Marri stated, “These awards highlight our dedication to investing in people. We remain committed to building an inclusive and supportive workplace.”

Driving Innovation in HR Practices

The International Brilliance Awards celebrate excellence in leadership, sustainability, and innovation across various industries. These awards also emphasize diversity, inclusion, and employee well-being. Dubai Culture’s recognition reinforces its leadership in HR innovation while strengthening its contribution to Dubai’s creative and cultural sectors.

With these achievements, the Authority continues to set industry benchmarks, ensuring sustainable growth in the UAE’s cultural landscape.

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Managed by Art Dubai Group, the grant aligns with the government’s efforts to position Dubai as a leading global hub for the creative economy. By supporting local artists and galleries, the initiative helps expand their international presence while reinforcing Dubai’s status as a thriving cultural center.

Strengthening Dubai’s Art Ecosystem

Through this initiative, Dubai Culture aims to:

• Enhance the city’s reputation as the region’s art capital.
• Encourage both emerging and established UAE-based and Emirati artists.
• Provide financial backing to galleries for international exposure.
• Drive growth in Dubai’s creative economy by attracting long-term commitments from galleries and artists.

Eligible galleries must meet the following criteria:

• Maintain a full-time presence in Dubai.
• Represent Emirati artists or those who have resided in the UAE for at least three years.
• Regularly showcase their programs beyond their gallery space, such as at institutions or art fairs.

Qualifying galleries can apply for up to 50% financial support for their booths at international art fairs, depending on the portion dedicated to Emirati or UAE-based artists.

Industry Leaders Welcome the Initiative

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design, and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, highlighted the grant’s significance, stating, “Dubai’s position as a global art hub is largely due to its vibrant art scene and thriving galleries. Through this grant, we aim to raise the international profiles of our galleries and artists, contributing to the global discourse on contemporary art and promoting Dubai as a center for artistic excellence.”

William Lawrie of Lawrie Shabibi Gallery also praised the initiative, emphasizing that it is a vital step in strengthening Dubai’s role in the international art scene. “This grant supports our participation in global art fairs and helps us showcase our artists on an international level,” he said.

As part of Dubai’s ongoing efforts to foster creativity and innovation, the grant ensures that the city remains a key player in the global art industry. By offering financial aid and international exposure, Dubai Culture continues to strengthen the local art community while reinforcing the emirate’s position as a dynamic and evolving cultural hub.

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Al Quoz: Showcasing Entrepreneurial Excellence and Growth

Furthermore, the forum featured six exceptional startups selected to pitch their concepts to a prestigious jury. The panel included renowned figures such as Hashem Montasser, Founder and CEO of The Lighthouse Group, Mohammed Kazim, Co-founder of Tamashee, and Genny Ghanimeh, Founder and CEO of Mind Cloud Tribe. Judges evaluated each pitch based on creativity, impact, and alignment with Dubai’s evolving cultural vision.

After thoughtful deliberation, three standout winners were chosen. First, Maysoon Al Shamsi, the founder of Creams Botanics, secured first place with her sustainable wellness brand inspired by the Emirati landscape. She shared, “The forum provided invaluable connections and guidance, enabling us to expand our business while staying true to our brand’s values.”

Next, Ghaleya Al Mansoori, the founder of Kenaz Art Studio, a mobile art studio offering traditional and contemporary workshops, claimed second prize. She expressed, “The forum was an inspiring experience that enhanced my entrepreneurship knowledge and expanded my ability to promote my project to a broader audience.”

Lastly, Rory McLoughlin, co-founder of Like Minds, a UAE-based creative community, took third place. He remarked, “The forum’s focus on community-driven initiatives empowers local creatives and motivates us to push forward with our ventures.”

Boosting Dubai’s Creative Economy

Additionally, the winners received financial and in-kind prizes worth over AED 350,000, generously provided by Dubai Culture in collaboration with partners such as Dubai SME, Letswork, LinkedIn, Make Works UAE, Two Thirds, and Zoho.

In conclusion, Khulood Khoory, Director of Projects & Events at Dubai Culture, emphasized the forum’s role in strengthening Dubai’s creative economy. She stated, “This edition has further cemented Dubai’s status as a global hub for culture and creativity by celebrating the city’s thriving entrepreneurial community and providing a platform for future success.”

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Dubai Culture: Boosting Global Presence for Dubai’s Art Scene

Managed by Art Dubai Group, the grant underscores Dubai’s commitment to expanding its art scene internationally. It provides financial support to galleries that maintain a full-time presence in Dubai, represent Emirati artists or those who have lived in the UAE for at least three years, and actively participate in exhibitions beyond their gallery space. Eligible galleries can apply for up to 50% funding for an international art fair booth, depending on the percentage of space allocated to Emirati or UAE-based artists.

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, highlighted the grant’s importance, stating: “Dubai’s position as a global art hub is largely attributed to its thriving art scene, which is centred around the city’s art galleries. Through this grant, we aim to elevate our artists on an international platform while fostering cultural exchange and collaboration.”

William Lawrie of Lawrie Shabibi gallery also praised the initiative, noting that it provides essential support for local talent. He also emphasized that the grant will help galleries expand their reach, promote artists globally, and contribute to Dubai’s evolving cultural landscape.

Encouraging Growth and Cultural Exchange

Beyond financial assistance, the grant seeks to establish Dubai as a permanent fixture in the international art world. By supporting emerging and established artists, the initiative fosters a sustainable creative ecosystem, benefiting complementary sectors and reinforcing Dubai’s role as a center for artistic excellence.

Applications for the grant are now open. Interested galleries can visit Art Dubai’s official website or contact the Art Dubai team at pietro@artdubai.ae for further details.

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Hands-On Creativity for Children

Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children presents Bait Al Khazaf, a dedicated space for pottery and ceramics. Designed to inspire young artists, the workshops include pottery-making, painting, and performing arts. Children can shape clay on a wheel, decorate candles, and design costumes while learning from theatre experts. The Centre for Musical Arts leads music sessions, and families can participate in a collaborative mural.

Ceramic Art Exhibition

Curated by Kamal Al Zoubi, Head of the Pottery Department at Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, Bait Al Khazaf features works by 55 Emirati and UAE-based ceramicists. Highlights include:

• Communication and Connection by Emirati artist Shamsa Juma, reflecting her search for perfection.
• Ibahar (Sailing) by Abdulla Al Hammadi, inspired by pearl diving.
• Calligraphy Mural by Pakistani artist Adeel Umar.
• Cultural Diffusion by Australian artist Alex Rawson, exploring cross-cultural exchange.
• Oryx the Survivor by Sudanese artist Amani Badur, symbolizing resilience.

The People of Determination Exhibition showcases inspiring works by artists with disabilities, highlighting their creativity and perseverance.

Literature and Visual Arts

Dubai Public Library’s School of Life initiative offers workshops such as:

• Ruq’ah Calligraphy by Mohammed Al Tamimi.
• Doors and Wooden Carvings by Dr Saeed Abdullah Al Wail, exploring Emirati craftsmanship.
• Sikka Folktales by Magdy ElKafrawy, bringing local stories to life on canvas.

Theatre and Folktales

The World Stage Design House (House 203) hosts theatre workshops, including:

• Puppet Workshop by Jacqui George, where children create shadow puppets.
• Lighting Workshop by Youmna Aboelella, teaching stage lighting techniques.
• Costume Design by Salma Lakharouti, using recycled materials.

At Masterpieces House – House of Folklore Tales (House 355), students from the Ministry of Education’s 2024 summer camp present artworks inspired by Kharareef (local folktales), blending tradition with modern creativity.

Festival Partners

The Sikka Art & Design Festival is organized in collaboration with Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development.

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Running until 9 February, the festival features over 450 workshops and talks covering arts, design, architecture, visual storytelling, and traditional crafts. The event supports the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy, ensuring a rich cultural experience for attendees. The festival’s sessions are led by industry experts and artists, offering valuable insights and practical training. Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, has been transformed into a dynamic hub for creativity.

Sikka Art & Design Festival : Hands-On Artistic Workshops

The festival offers workshops tailored to various creative disciplines. Emerging City is hosting Gypsum Art, where participants explore gypsum carving techniques. The Traditional Jewellery House presents Jewellery Making: Marriyah (Necklace), providing hands-on experience in crafting traditional ornaments.

Visitors at the People and Faith House can join Henna Stencil and Prayer Bead Crafting sessions. The Traditional Crafts House introduces Spindle, a workshop on hand-weaving using traditional tools.

At House 355 – Masterpieces, creativity takes center stage with Graffiti Art: Express Yourself with Spray Paint, where participants learn graffiti fundamentals from a professional artist. House 341 – Realiity House offers Doodles & AI, transforming simple sketches into digital art using artificial intelligence. The Glitch Art session explores creative distortions inspired by digital effects.

Workshops at House 314 by Sxill Lab include Handmade Tile Making and Cheese Board Design. Meanwhile, House 326 – Sikka Platform presents sustainability-focused sessions such as Sustainability Now: Eco-Friendly Solutions and Perfume Making for Adults. At House 15, Tashkeel hosts modern printing workshops like Hand Printing on Bags and Riso Printing.

Sikka Art & Design Festival : Music, Writing, and Storytelling

At House 196 – Urban House by The Workshop DXB, singer Shilpa Ananth leads Unlocking Authenticity: The Psychology of Songwriting. The session delves into emotional and experiential influences on songwriting, helping participants refine their music composition skills.

The Merin Pavilion hosts Letters to the City: Writing Public Spaces, where attendees reflect on meaningful locations in Dubai by writing personalized messages dedicated to them.

Inspiring Talks and Creative Discussions

The festival includes Sikka Speaks, a dedicated space featuring leading creatives discussing industry trends. Highlights include:

• Creative Minds: Art Therapy for Young Explorers – Art therapist Caline Boghos guides children through therapeutic practices and imaginative play.
• Immersive Magic: Where Art, Music, and Technology Transform Experiences – A panel featuring Anna Lebedeva, Jalal Luqman, Maryam Al Obeidli, Denis Rosiev, Evgenia Romanidi, and Nicholas Mann, moderated by Elias Attallah.
• Decoding Humour: The Art of Multicultural Comedy in Dubai – Featuring comedians Shadi Jad and Saniya Abbas, moderated by Liz Baines.
• Artistic Intervention in Satwa: Tracing Urban Nostalgia – A discussion led by Khalil Abdulwahid and Karim Jabbari.
• Go Global! International Opportunities & Strategies for Dubai-Based Artists – Moderated by Sophie Mayuko, featuring Sanaz Askari, Giuseppe Moscatello, and Behrang Samadzadkan.

A Collaborative Effort

The festival is organized in partnership with Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development. This collaborative effort ensures a world-class platform for artists, designers, and cultural enthusiasts.

With an extensive lineup of workshops, talks, and exhibitions, Sikka Art & Design Festival 2025 continues to establish Dubai as a leading creative and cultural hub.

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The ‘House of Saffron’

This year’s edition introduces the ‘House of Saffron’ (House 416), a dedicated space highlighting seven saffron-inspired works. Among them, Fatima Alsuwaidi’s An Exploration Through Poetry and Traditions examines the cultural significance of saffron, while Saffron’s Prints by Mariam Bayat explores its relationship with nature. Omar Al Othman’s documentary Saffron in UAE delves into its heritage through interviews with a perfumer, a saffron vendor, and a poet.

A collective from One Third Studio—Amna Bin Bishr, Duna Al Ajlan, and Dania Al Ajlan—presents a saffron-inspired tableware collection. Meanwhile, Roudhah Al Mazrouei’s Terrain captures a UAE village landscape, and Roudha Bu Abdulla’s Saffron-Infused Emirati Dishes illustrates six traditional recipes featuring saffron. Taqwa Alnaqbi showcases Preserved Saffron, further emphasizing the spice’s cultural role.

Culinary and Musical Experiences

Visitors can enjoy saffron-inspired dishes from nine renowned chefs, including Maitha Warshaw, Arwa Lootah, and Halima Bahlooq, at the ‘Supper Club,’ where tableware and furniture reflect the warmth of the saffron flower. Additionally, 51 food stalls, such as Farmers, Midori, and Wakame, will offer a variety of cuisines.

The festival also includes over 100 live music performances featuring artists like Maryam Omran Sajwani, Rashid Waleed Al Marzouqi, and Kamal Musallam. Notable bands such as The One-Man Band, Nafas, and The Fizz Group will take the stage. Six orchestral performances will feature the Firdaus Orchestra led by A.R. Rahman, alongside ensembles like the Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra and the UAE Philharmonic Orchestra by ToDA.

Art Installations and Cultural Highlights

Sikka showcases Dubai’s history through Wind Canvas, a project featuring three collaborative works inspired by maritime trade. Artists Khawla Darwish and Rashid Al Mulla created the first sail, drawing from Dubai’s Fish Roundabout, while Ghada Mehdi and German Fernandez envisioned a journey of memories. Hessa Al Awadhi and Maryam Al Ramsi crafted the third sail, merging digital and traditional art to reflect Al Shindagha’s commercial legacy.

Festival-goers can also experience Creatives on Wheels, a shadow puppetry performance by Boubaker Boukhari, Lina Younes, and Samer Arzouni. The story, inspired by Dubai Creek, follows a crocodile and a bird in a tale of unity, performed in Arabic with live music.

Supporting Local Creativity

Sikka Art 2025 features more than 50 retail stores, including From The Arabs, which preserves cultural heritage through fragrances, and Tropicfeel, a sustainable fashion brand. Other notable stores include Atuyah Studios, Creams Botanics, and Yello for Sustainable Abayas, the region’s first circular, zero-waste abaya brand.

The Ahlan W Sahlan Creative Studio will present innovative designs from brands like Clique, Elain Knit, and The Noor Creative. The festival runs until 9 February and is supported by Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development.

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Bringing the Past and Present Together Through Art

The Resonance installation, created by graphic designer Maryam Namvar and architect Neda Salmanpour, is an immersive and interactive art piece that invites visitors into a sensory conversation with the past and present of Al Shindagha. Curated by Munira Al Sayegh, the piece comprises three delicately suspended metal panels that move with the wind, reflect shifting light, and echo the rhythms of the creek. The installation draws inspiration from the constant movement of water, trade, architecture, languages, and communities that have long shaped life in this area. The piece’s dynamic nature highlights the cultural evolution of Al Shindagha, incorporating elements of the community’s history, while also adding a contemporary touch.

Promoting Public Art for Community Engagement

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, stressed that public art plays an essential role in the emirate’s cultural ecosystem. He emphasized that the Dubai Public Art Strategy is a platform for artists to draw from Dubai’s rich cultural heritage and express their creative visions. “Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood stands as a witness to the evolution of Dubai into a global city,” said Dr. Bin Kharbash, highlighting the importance of the site in Dubai’s collective memory.

Maryam Namvar and Neda Salmanpour, the artists behind the installation, said, “Al Shindagha serves as a cultural and historical touchstone, and, with our artwork Resonance, we wanted to capture the emotion of being there. We aim to contribute to the ever-evolving culture and context of the city by creating a piece that will evoke thought, emotion, and conversation.”

Continuing Dubai’s Public Art Journey

Resonance is the first in a series of three Dubai Public Art projects, which will continue to bring thought-provoking art into public spaces like the Shindagha Historic District, Al Quoz Creative Zone, and Hatta. This initiative reflects Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and Alserkal Arts Foundation’s ongoing commitment to nurturing artistic excellence among UAE-based artists, fostering deeper connections between the city’s creative community and its people.

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Skill-building and Personal Development

The programme will focus on professional growth, game design, programming, and creativity through a wide range of sessions. Participants can look forward to short courses on strategy development, Arabic calligraphy, Emirati dialect, and healthy nutrition tips. These workshops aim to empower individuals to develop talents and gain knowledge in diverse fields, especially for those visiting the Dubai Public Libraries.

Educational Sessions for School Students

As part of the ‘Space and Innovation’ theme, three special sessions have been designed for school students. At Al Safa Art & Design Library, the workshop ‘Mechanism of Astronomical Observation’ will introduce children to mapping stars, planets, and creating a 3D map of the galaxy using real data. ‘Game Development’ at Al Twar Library will guide kids through the basics of game design, programming principles, and coding concepts. Meanwhile, ‘Vertical Farming’ at Al Mankhool Library will offer a hands-on introduction to sustainable agriculture.

Workshops at the 13th Sikka Art and Design Festival

The 13th Sikka Art & Design Festival, held in the Al Shindagha Historic District from January 31 to February 9, will feature two additional sessions. Dr. Saeed Abdullah Al Wayel will lead a session on ‘Doors and Wooden Carvings,’ where participants can learn the traditional art of wooden door carving and explore Emirati heritage. Additionally, Ola Allouz will guide visitors through ‘Sikka Art & Design Festival: The Best Moments’, focusing on photography and how to transform everyday moments into artistic shots.

Health and Wellness Activities

The Al Safa Art & Design Library will also host wellness-focused workshops under its Wellness and Nutrition Club. Participants can enjoy a ladies-only Pilates class to improve strength and flexibility, followed by a ‘Making Healthy Dairy Products’ workshop led by Nada Saeed Kattan, teaching attendees how to prepare labneh and cheese using fresh, natural ingredients.

The library’s Art Club will offer sessions such as ‘Texture in Acrylic Painting’ by Benedicte Gimonnet, which uses acrylic mediums and basic printing techniques to create unique surfaces. ‘Drawing Characters in Traditional Art’ by Abeer Al Edani will explore character drawing inspired by cultural identities. Medaf Creative Studio will also conduct ‘Art 101: Design Your Umbrella’ and ‘Art 101: Lobster in Watercolour’ workshops.

At Al Mankhool Library, the Chess Academy will hold a series of activities, including ‘Chess Etiquette & Principles’ for kids aged six and above, focusing on respect and sportsmanship. The library will also offer ‘Effective Chess Strategies’ and a ‘Chess Hackathon’ to challenge participants with strategic and tactical thinking.

The Calligraphy Club at Al Mankhool Library will feature workshops on the Baybayin script, allowing participants to create personalized t-shirts and tote bags with this ancient script. Mohammad Altamimi will also offer workshops on Ruq’ah Calligraphy, both at Al Safa Art & Design Library and during the Sikka Art & Design Festival.

The Career Club, part of the Creative Track, will host a series of events at Al Mankhool Library and LinkedIn HQ to empower participants with skills such as creative thinking, problem-solving, persuasive communication, and networking. The STEM Club’s Impact Track will focus on scientific research and sustainable solutions, preparing participants to use AI in creating solutions for global challenges and competing in international STEM competitions.

The School of Life programme is an exceptional opportunity for the community to explore space, innovation, and creativity, offering workshops that foster personal growth, professional skills, and sustainability awareness. This series of events contributes to Dubai’s goal of providing lifelong learning and enhancing the quality of life for all.

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Murals Capturing Tradition, Identity, and Modernity

Among the 13 striking murals, notable works include:

• ‘A Heritage of Night’ by Eman Alrashdi, merging Emirati identity with a Van Gogh-inspired night sky.
• ‘Child’s Play’ by Perryhan El-Ashmawi, portraying childhood joy and creativity.
• ‘Rooted Connections’ by Karim Jabbari, blending Arabic calligraphy and poetry.
• ‘Dream Big’ by Noé Peiró, symbolizing Dubai’s rise from a fishing village to a global city.

Other murals explore urban life, nature, and cultural heritage, showcasing the depth of talent from regional and international artists.

Innovative Sculptures and Installations

Over 40+ installations redefine the landscape, including:

• ‘Shells’ by Dr Mohamed Yousif, depicting Dubai’s coastal history through stone carving.
• ‘Dubai Heart’ by Azza Al Qubaisi, exploring the UAE’s traditions and identity.
• ‘Starry Sky in Dubai’ by Liu Yang, a dynamic light sculpture inspired by celestial movements.
• ‘Moon’ by Mohamed Sahnoun, a calligraphy-adorned marble piece that shifts between full and crescent moon perspectives.

Interactive and Sustainable Art

Artworks like ‘Make-A-Friend’ by Hend Almurid, an installation allowing visitors to build their own sculptures, and ‘Renewal’ by Studio Thirteen X Nordic Homeworx, made from recycled wood, highlight the festival’s focus on community engagement and sustainability.

A Collaborative Effort

The festival is supported by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, and Dubai Civil Defence, ensuring a well-curated cultural experience.

With immersive art, heritage-inspired creations, and futuristic installations, Sikka 2025 cements Dubai’s position as a thriving hub for artistic innovation and cultural storytelling.

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