Dubai Culture Launches Curatorial Foundations Program to Empower Emerging Talent
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), in partnership with Node Berlin – Center for Curatorial Studies, has announced the launch of the Curatorial Foundations Program, a new initiative designed to build curatorial capacity in the UAE. Set to run from October 1 to December 12, 2025, the hybrid program offers a rare opportunity for aspiring curators, artists, and cultural practitioners to gain hands-on experience and expert training in the field of curation.
This initiative is part of Dubai’s wider strategy to grow its cultural and creative industries and strengthen its position as a global hub for the creative economy, in alignment with the city’s broader vision for the future.
A Platform for Emerging Curators
The Curatorial Foundations Program is aimed at university graduates, artists, and creators who are UAE nationals or residents and who are eager to deepen their expertise in curatorial practice. Through a combination of online learning and onsite sessions at the historic Al Shindagha Heritage Neighbourhood, participants will gain valuable insight into the strategies and processes that shape successful exhibitions and cultural programming.
The program’s curriculum has been carefully developed in collaboration with Node Berlin, one of Europe’s leading centres for curatorial studies, and will be delivered by professional curators and international experts.
What Participants Will Learn
Over the course of the program, participants will engage in practical workshops covering all aspects of curatorial work, including:
Exhibition Planning & Concept Development – understanding themes, narratives, and storytelling
Artist Selection & Relationship Management – working collaboratively with creators
Artwork Care & Conservation – learning techniques for preserving and presenting works
Media & Communication Strategies – promoting exhibitions to attract audiences and coverage
Partner Collaboration & Stakeholder Management – building relationships within the arts ecosystem
Budgeting & Contract Management – ensuring sustainable, well-organised projects
The course will culminate in the development of a comprehensive exhibition proposal, allowing participants to demonstrate the skills and knowledge they have gained during the program.
A Selective and Immersive Experience
To maintain a focused, interactive learning environment, the Curatorial Foundations Program will select only 10 participants. Applications will be assessed based on readiness, motivation, and commitment to curatorial practice.
Applicants should be:
UAE nationals or residents
Proficient in English
Aspiring curators, artists, or cultural practitioners with a foundation in the arts
Highly motivated to gain practical, hands-on experience
Submissions must include a CV or portfolio of creative work, where available, to demonstrate an applicant’s background and interests.
Key Dates and Application Details
Applications open on 8 September 2025 and close on 15 September 2025. Due to the limited number of spots, early submissions are strongly encouraged.
Program Details at a Glance:
Program Name: Curatorial Foundations Program
Organisers: Dubai Culture & Node Berlin – Center for Curatorial Studies
Duration: October 1 – December 12, 2025
Format: Hybrid (online + onsite at Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood)
Eligibility: UAE nationals and residents
Number of Participants: 10
Applications Open: 8 September 2025
Applications Close: 15 September 2025
Interested applicants can access the application form via the Dubai Culture website.
Strengthening Dubai’s Cultural Landscape
By introducing this program, Dubai Culture reinforces its commitment to supporting emerging talent and providing platforms for creative professionals to develop their expertise. The initiative also supports Dubai’s vision of becoming a leading global destination for arts, culture, and innovation, while building a sustainable ecosystem that empowers the next generation of curators and cultural leaders.
With its strong focus on hands-on learning, international collaboration, and real-world application, the Curatorial Foundations Program marks an important step in shaping the future of the UAE’s cultural landscape.
For full details on the program and application process, visit the official Dubai Culture website.
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