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Grant Recipients 2025
The Third cycle of the National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity 2025 includes 44 UAE National creatives from various Emirates that have been selected to receive a grant from the Ministry of Culture to complete a creative project within their fields. Further information on the grant recipients and their projects can be found below.
Grant Recipients Overview
Grant Recipients Overview

Ali Abualreesh
Analytical Book
Creation and Production
The project is an analytical book on the poetry of Sheikh Zayed, consisting of volumes exceeding three hundred thousand words, highlighting the distinction and uniqueness of Sheikh Zayed’s ideas and values.

Muhsin Alraeesi
Book
Creation and Production
This book weaves local, lesser-known legends into the fabric of personal travel experiences. The author seamlessly integrates these myths with his own journeys, drawing inspiration from an encounter in Algeria when someone warned, “Let’s hurry, lest the ‘Aghreeba’ appears.” This sparked his curiosity, leading him to research and incorporate the legend into his narrative. Similarly, in cities like Rome, Florence, Mumbai, New Delhi, Tokyo, and Amman, he explores local myths, offering a literary blend of autobiography and cultural storytelling.

Salim Aljneibi
Book
Creation and Production
The “Contemporary Art in the UAE” project seeks to document and advance the country's cultural and artistic landscape through an informational encyclopedia, field research, and academic studies. It aims to preserve artistic heritage as a valuable reference for future generations while elevating the UAE’s global artistic presence by showcasing works that blend local heritage with contemporary techniques. This initiative offers researchers and specialists accurate, reliable insights into modern and contemporary Emirati art.

Maryam Alzaabi
Children's Story Collection
Creation and Production
An illustrated book that introduces children to the perennial trees in the UAE such as the Ghaf, Palm and Mangrove trees. Accompanied by a collection of stories, the book serves as an educational and cultural book about the trees mentioned in the story, their names and history. Enriching the Emirati cultural library with publications in the field of children about trees in the UAE in a story format.

Fahad Almamari
Biographical Writer
Creation and Production
This series showcases prominent first-generation Emirati figures whose ancestors were influential leaders and governors in the region. Following the establishment of the federal state, they played a vital role in shaping government institutions and maintained close ties with the rulers, particularly Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The book highlights their efforts in preserving local heritage, including Mohammed bin Sultan Al Darmaki’s contributions to popular poetry, the folk song movement, and historical preservation.

Lamya Alsaiqal
Short Story Collection
Creation and Production
The short story collection “Lamia and the Sea” is a series of 12 episodes targeting children and cubs. It talks about Lamia’s adventures at sea at various stages of life, as the child will accompany her from her childhood and grow with her until he reaches young adulthood. The stories shed light on some local terms and the marine environment in the Arabian Gulf and the most important practices for preserving the marine environment. They also contain awareness about avoiding the dangers of the sea.

Shaikha Almteiri
Book
Creation and Production
"The project proposes the idea of writing a collection of publications related to libraries in the UAE, through three publications, which are: A project that deals with publishing three books that shed light on libraries in the UAE: Librarians, Poets: reviews the lives of three Emirati poets who worked in libraries and its impact on their creative experience. 25 Years at the Juma Al Majid Center: presents a personal experience about the center’s role in preserving cultural heritage and rare manuscripts. The Book in the Museums of the Emirates: discusses the preservation and restoration of books in museums, explaining their importance as a historical cognitive artifact."

Sara Bin Safwan
Digital Publication
Creation and Production
The project aims to document and explore landmarks and parks across the Arab region, starting with Iraq and the UAE, to understand their historical, cultural, and symbolic significance. The research will focus on the role these sites play in shaping narratives of nation, community, and identity, while documenting the aesthetic, historical, and societal dimensions of cities like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Baghdad, and Babylon. The project will culminate in a digital publication, serving as both a guide and a cultural map, and will open opportunities for future exhibitions, workshops, and academic engagement.

Kareem Maatouq
Poetry Collection
Promotion and Local Participations
The project will consist of four volumes, starting with my first collection, Manahil, and ending with the collection of poems From One Genius. My output in the collection will represent my creative personality, and previously sold-out collections will be reprinted through the project.

Dr. Ahmed Alkhoori
Biographical Writer
Promotion and Local Participations
The project offers an authentic narrative exploration of the region’s history since the mid-18th century, focusing on Abu Dhabi’s transformation from the 1950s to today. Through the life of Dr. Ahmed Khouri, it tells the story of the emirate’s journey from poverty to global leadership with a thriving economy and rich cultural heritage. The project aims to: Provide a personal and moving perspective on Emirati life, highlighting the resilience that has shaped the UAE today. Bring readers closer to the struggles and successes that have contributed to Abu Dhabi’s development. Foster connection and pride in a diverse community through shared values. Inspire readers globally to celebrate Abu Dhabi’s achievements and rich heritage

Surour Alkaabi
Dictionary
Promotion and Local Engagements
The project aims to define Emirati vocabulary, much of which risks being lost over time, by tracing its roots and ensuring its accessibility for future generations. This initiative seeks to make the vocabulary clear to all Arabic speakers and practical for use in the work of translators handling Emirati folk literature.

Hazza Abualreesh
Literary Platform
Promotion and Local Participations
Aswat website is an online literary platform that launches from the UAE to the world with an Arab vision, national visions, and a clear strategy derived from a conscious, solid, and fortified thought, and promising steps led by pens with mature fingers.

Ahmed Almansoori
Music
Creation & Production
This program trains a diverse Emirati choir, bringing together children, people of determination, women, and men to create a heritage music ensemble. It focuses on professionally documenting and recording the poetry of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, celebrating cultural heritage and strengthening national identity. The initiative promotes intergenerational communication, social inclusion, and equality while developing national talent in music, singing, and cultural project management to support the growing needs of the UAE’s cultural sector.

Ali Alkatheeri
Music
Creation & Production
Designing a video graphics using the latest technologies to bring to life a poem by Emirati poet Hamad Al Balushi, composed in the Ayala style, specifically “Ayala Al Ain.” This style is chosen for its cultural significance and prominent role in national occasions, holidays, and weddings. The composition will be performed musically within the country, adhering to the highest standards of quality and excellence.

Nujoom Alghanem
Short Film & TV
Creation & Production
The project tells the story of the character "Fatima" a woman working in the rare profession of rose water distillation, a field traditionally dominated by men. The film highlights the challenges she faces in a conservative society. Through the work, her personal essence and psychological depth are revealed, and it follows the details of her life and her struggle with traditions, in addition to using nature as a symbol of liberation and maturity.

Ahmed Alhebsi
Drama Movie
Creation and Production
This is a feature-length drama that tells the stories of a group of passengers on a single bus trip, where their paths cross unexpectedly, and their destinies intertwine, revealing a range of human experiences. The film focuses on daily life, presenting scenes rich with symbolism that reflect human complexities and the fleeting encounters that leave a lasting impact on people's lives.

Hind Al Basti
Drama Movie
Creation and Production
A short film that follows two childhood best friends as they navigate the ever-changing landscape of their city, with changes in culture, family norms and social dynamics.

Khaled Aljaberi
Cartoon Series
Creation and Production
The project aims to teach children Emirati customs and traditions, especially Emirati customs and traditions that have begun to fade away over time, even if only slightly, such as the custom of pouring coffee, receiving guests, and what is said on holidays and special occasions.

Afra Almarar
Short Film
Creation and Production
A film that reflects the social and cultural transformations in the Arabian Gulf with the advent of oil. It tells the story of a girl facing a conflict between tradition and modernity, as she is forced to choose between her personal dreams and family obligations, within a historical framework that highlights the impact of the interaction between different cultures on society.

Eissa Alawadhi
Content Creation (podcast)
Creation and Production
The project aims to showcase stories, experiences, insights, and experiments within the creative economy sector, with a particular focus on the creators shaping this industry in the Arab world. Not a Podcast will become the go-to reference for anyone interested in this sector.

Abdulla Alkaabi
Content Creation (Video)
Creation and Production
Highlighting the historical areas in the UAE and presenting them in a simple and understandable way for the viewer.

Dr. Maitha Alhameli
Content Creation
Creation and Production
Documenting the lives and contributions of influential Emirati national figures who have made a positive impact, through direct conversations with them.

Hassan Rajab
Social Theatre Show
Creation and Production
This project aims to address societal issues through awareness messages, to prevent individuals from engaging in malicious rumors that diminish the country's achievements and general goals, within a theatrical framework with integrated elements, and aims to achieve the goals of sustainable development to a large extent in a comedic and tragic format that reaches the theatrical and general audience in a smooth manner.

Sabir Rajab
Children's Theatrical Show
Creation and Production
The project aims to achieve the vision of the United Arab Emirates in achieving a sustainable environment and spreading cultural awareness among children about cooperation, patience, love and honoring parents.

Abdulla Alsaad
Children's Theatrical Show
Creation and Production
A children’s play set in the desert tells the inspiring story of Princess Ghazal, designed to deepen children’s connection to their heritage while instilling values of courage and cooperation. Featuring puppets to bring characters and animals to life, the performance captivates young audiences. Using the art of mime, it replaces spoken dialogue with expressive gestures and movements, creating a visually immersive and engaging experience.

Omar Ghubash
Theatrical Performance
Promotion and Local Participations
This project tells the story of one of the most important poets in the Emirates and the Gulf, Mubarak Al Aqili. This play represents the first work written about the poet’s life. It is the first work written about the poet's life, offering a unique insight into his legacy. It also consolidates the role of theater in society as part of the cultural and creative industries sector.

Abdulla Masoud
Social Theatre Show
Promotion and Local Participations
A play exploring social conflict, exposing the oppressive tactics used by certain groups to assert control. It advocates for peaceful coexistence, empathy, and fraternity as essential values for personal and societal growth. Through its narrative, the play emphasizes the importance of mutual respect and humane treatment, urging audiences to overcome divisions and work toward a more just and balanced society.

Marwan Abdullah Saleh
Comedy Theater Show
Promotion and Local Participations
A social comedy with a traditional flair, blending past and present through humor and satire. Set against the backdrop of Gulf customs and traditions, the story follows a family preparing for a wedding, navigating amusing situations and unexpected surprises. Through witty dialogue and heritage-inspired music, the play explores social values, generational differences, and the ironies of wedding planning, delivering both laughter and thoughtful reflection.

Hashel Allamki
Artworks
Creation and Production
Producing artworks for Al Qasimia School and Museum as part of his participation in Sharjah Biennial 16: Our Journeys. His works focus mainly on implementing sustainable development goals and implementing sustainable practices that reduce carbon emissions.

Alaa Edris
Artwork
Creation and Production
The project explores Emirati identity and national memory amid the country's rapid transformations, examining cultural development and nostalgia while connecting the past, present, and future. Through architectural imagery and landscapes, it captures shifts in physical and cultural spaces, highlighting what is lost, preserved, or altered by modernization. By focusing on historical and cultural landmarks, the project creates a layered visual narrative that deepens the understanding of modernity in the UAE, with findings documented in new works and publications.

Ayesha Hadhir
Artwork
Creation and Production
The project aims to develop sustainable and innovative materials to integrate into the traditional craft of Sadu weaving, by reusing discarded materials and transforming them into new threads. This approach aims to integrate the cultural heritage of Sadu with modern sustainability practices, opening up creative horizons for weavers and promoting environmental awareness. This initiative contributes to preserving the craft while introducing new forms of expression that support the long-term sustainability of the craft and the environment.

Shama Al-Hamed
Artwork
Promotion and Local Participations
This project consists of a series of paintings and artworks, primarily inspired by the architecture of Abu Dhabi, combined with personal moments from my own life. The interplay between these experiences and the architectural patterns I photograph adds a unique layer of meaning to the work. I will explore a mix of media – sculpture, installations, paintings, prints and textile collages – to create a diverse and immersive artistic experience. The architectural patterns I create form the basis of my work.

Mariam Alkatheeri
Training Program
Capacity Development
This project, titled “Expanding the Practice of Observation,” aims to enhance my skills as a photographer through a four-week digital photography workshop at the New York Film Academy. As a self-taught photographer from Abu Dhabi, I have achieved significant milestones in my journey, yet I recognize the need for formal education to further develop my artistic practice. This workshop offers an invaluable opportunity to learn from established professionals and connect with a diverse community of artists.

Amna Almemari
Training Program
Capacity Development
A one-year technical training at Lootah Technical Centre consisting of more than 250 hours based on learning skills in welding and carpentry. It aims to highlight the importance of making meaning in the field of art and design, especially sculpture.

Mohamed Alsuwaidi
Training Program
Capacity Development
An intensive training workshop in the field of specialized architectural photography, using specialized high-resolution photography tools. The workshop is presented 1-1 by an elite group of international experts in the field of architectural photography, for 5 intensive days, in which advanced details of the equipment, the optimal work mechanism according to need and lighting are explained, advanced training in modifying and editing images and how to publish them according to need.

Roudhah Almazrouei
Artwork
International Travel and Mobility
Participating in the Mayfair exhibition in London by presenting artworks that merge traditional Emirati materials with modern techniques, with a focus on using “Al-Sinaa” (a blend of mastic and saffron traditionally used as a bridal fragrance) as a painting medium. The project seeks to engage with London’s art community, explore sustainable practices, and create works that bridge Emirati heritage with contemporary global art. Through multisensory storytelling—incorporating scent, touch, and texture—the exhibition offers a reflective experience, preserving cultural traditions while reinterpreting them for a modern audience.

Dr.Ahmad Alattar
Creation & Production
"Khaimat Al Tatawwer" reflects the UAE’s balance between tradition and progress, blending Sadu patterns with modern design elements like angled circular cutouts symbolizing the evolving Emirati identity. The project creates an immersive space where visitors experience the interplay of heritage and innovation, mirroring the UAE’s cultural transformation. It invites reflection on personal and national identities, celebrating how the nation honors its roots while embracing the future.

Khalid Alsuwaidi
Video Games
Creation & Production
An open world game for children targeting early childhood up to the age of 8, through which the child learns the Emirati ettiquite and heritage, while focusing on promoting the Arabic language, caring for health and nutrition, and developing personal skills and leadership skills by completing tasks and responsibilities in the game, with parental support through periodic reports, all using fun educational and entertaining gamification methods and modern and contemporary mechanisms that suit the new generation.

Salmah Almansoori
Documentary Artwork
Creation and Production
The project aims to document and preserve the cultural and environmental heritage of Ghayathi in the Al Dhafra Region, through the collection of archival research, documentation of oral history, and exploration of the impact of urbanization on Bedouin traditions. The project focuses on the manufacture of paper from desert plants and fibers, to create mixed media works. The resulting artworks will reflect the landscape of Ghayathi and the memories associated with it.

Khaled Alhindaassi
Heritage Book
Creation and Production
Collecting, documenting, protecting and preserving the UAE’s cultural heritage The book will enhance the value of the UAE’s maritime heritage, stimulating interest in cultural industries: By documenting the fishing method, the book can contribute to teaching traditional skills to fishermen and craftsmen, enhancing their capabilities. The book can inspire artists and designers to create works inspired by maritime heritage, enriching the creative scene.

Maryam Almazrouei
Documentary Study
Creation & Production
Exploring the role of Majid magazine in shaping the UAE’s national identity and contributing to cultural diplomacy. By analyzing the content, visuals, and evolution of Majid magazine, I aim to present how the magazine has served as a tool to foster a shared sense of identity among young Emiratis. The exhibition will focus on the narratives conveyed through storytelling, images, and educational content, demonstrating how these elements have nurtured cultural values and supported a vision of a cohesive national identity. In addition, the exhibition will explore the magazine’s influence outside the UAE.

Dr. Khawla Almarri
Historical Study
Creation & Production
This research explores the development of modernity in the UAE through the lens of religious tolerance, focusing on the establishment of church areas in the 1960s and 1970s, alongside archaeological discoveries of ancient monasteries. It examines the history and formation of churches and religious spaces, highlighting the role of UAE leaders in fostering a peaceful environment and promoting policies of religious coexistence. By analyzing how religious recognition systems were understood and supported by governments, with a particular focus on Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the study underscores the country's rich historical narrative and its lasting significance for future generations.

Alya Almansoori
Heritage Application
Creation & Production
An app dedicated to intangible cultural heritage, highlighting traditional skills such as Sadu weaving, palm frond weaving, Talli embroidery, and maritime crafts. It also explores oral traditions, performing arts, and social practices, preserving and promoting these cultural legacies.

Maitha Alkhayat
Content Creation
Creation & Production
A program designed to inspire children to love the Arabic language through storytelling and writing, complemented by interactive activities and artistic crafts, fostering a deep connection to their Arabic identity.