🎨 Art Residencies You Should Know About in the UAE
In recent years, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has emerged as a hub for global art markets and a nurturing ground for artist development through world-class art residencies. These programs, often supported by visionary cultural foundations and government initiatives, provide emerging and established artists with time, space, and networks to create transformative work in the Gulf.
🌟 Salama Bint Hamdan Fellowship (SEAF)
One of the most prestigious residencies is the Salama Bint Hamdan Emerging Artists Fellowship (SEAF), developed in collaboration with the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD). SEAF offers UAE-based artists professional mentorship, studio visits, and the opportunity to engage with curators and scholars across the globe [¹].
🏙 Tashkeel Residency & Dubai Culture’s Air
In Dubai, the Tashkeel Residency Programme provides studio spaces and full logistical support for international artists in design, photography, fine art, and craft. These residencies result in group exhibitions, workshops, and public talks that connect creators with a broader community.
Similarly, Dubai Culture’s AiR (Artist-in-Residence) initiative promotes cultural exchange by hosting local and global artists in collaborative projects [²].
🏛 NYUAD Art Gallery & Alserkal Arts Foundation
Though more academic, Abu Dhabi’s Art Residency at NYUAD Art Gallery offers visiting artists research opportunities and curatorial support within a university setting. Meanwhile, the Alserkal Arts Foundation Residency in Dubai provides a highly competitive, fully funded program focusing on socially engaged practice [³].
A Unique Blend of Heritage & Innovation
The UAE's strategic blend of modernity and heritage makes its residency particularly unique. Artists benefit from high-tech studios and global exposure while drawing inspiration from the region’s layered history, cultural diversity, and fast-evolving creative scene.
These programs also align with the UAE's soft power strategy: developing a vibrant creative economy while reinforcing cultural identity. As the ecosystem matures, more institutions place residencies at the core of their programming, making the UAE a top destination for artistic growth.
🖼 Sanbuk.Art and the Residency Spirit
At Sanbuk.Art, we champion this spirit of exchange and innovation by showcasing works from artists participating in these residencies. These residencies offer an exceptional foundation for artists seeking growth and inspiration in a dynamic cultural environment.
We believe in the power of place to shape creative voice, and the UAE is unlike any other.
📚 References
[¹] Salama bint Hamdan Foundation – https://shf.ae
[²] Tashkeel Dubai – https://tashkeel.org
Dubai Culture & Arts Authority – https://dubaiculture.gov.ae
[³] Alserkal Arts Foundation – https://alserkal.online
Kazan, S. (2020). Crossing Borders: Contemporary Art in the UAE. University of Leicester
