In collaboration with Google, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has officially launched the open call for the 2nd MENA Creatives Bootcamp – AI & Innovation Edition. The initiative is designed to empower creatives in the UAE and MENA region by enhancing their skills and equipping them with the tools to integrate technology and AI into their projects. The programme focuses on bolstering digital presence, providing hands-on learning experiences, and encouraging innovation in the creative industry.
This new edition reflects Dubai Culture’s ongoing commitment to fostering the growth of the cultural and creative industries, with the goal of further establishing Dubai as a global creative hub and incubator for talent. The programme offers creatives from the UAE and MENA the opportunity to apply for a chance to be part of this transformative experience. The deadline for applications is 10 January 2025, and the event is limited to a select group of participants.
The four-day bootcamp will provide an exclusive opportunity to network with top creative talent, collaborate on innovative projects, and receive one-on-one mentorship from Google’s AI experts. The bootcamp’s main events will be held at Google’s Dubai office, with the final day taking place in the Al Quoz Creative Zone, where the focus will shift to digital art, innovation, and AI.
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi’s Insight
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, the Director of the Marketing & Corporate Communication Department at Dubai Culture, spoke about the significance of the AI & Innovation Edition of the bootcamp. She emphasized how it aligns with the UAE’s broader goals under the National Innovation Strategy and the country’s ongoing commitment to digital transformation. Al Suwaidi explained, “Through this bootcamp, Dubai Culture seeks to open new horizons for creatives and provide them with access to experts, tools and knowledge to explore technology and advanced AI applications that can be applied to their creative practices and projects. These applications possess unique capabilities in content creation and generating original ideas for their projects, contributing to Dubai’s global leadership as one of the most future-ready cities in the world.”
Building on Past Success
The previous edition of the bootcamp, themed around sustainability, garnered significant attention, with over 88 applications from creatives across the region. The inaugural programme attracted 21 creatives from 10 countries, who were mentored by 41 experts in various fields. The event featured a series of workshops and one-on-one sessions focused on sustainable design and eco-friendly practices. This success underlined the bootcamp’s potential as a key platform for nurturing talent and driving innovation in the MENA region.
How to Register
The bootcamp organisers have encouraged creatives to apply before the 10 January 2025 deadline to be considered for a chance to participate in this prestigious event. To register, visit the official bootcamp registration page.