The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has officially opened applications for the 14th Sikka Art & Design Festival, held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture. Scheduled to take place from 23 January to 1 February 2026 in the Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, the festival continues its mission of celebrating Emirati and GCC-based creatives while strengthening Dubai’s global position as a hub for arts, innovation, and talent.
This immersive event provides a dynamic platform for both emerging and established artists to present new work across diverse mediums. It not only highlights regional creativity but also supports Dubai’s broader goal of being a global cultural capital. By uniting various art disciplines, the festival plays a key role in the emirate’s Quality of Life Strategy and elevates the city’s cultural and international profile.
Dubai Culture is inviting individuals and collectives from across disciplines — including visual art, design, new media, photography, public art, ceramics, installations, performing arts, and urban culture — to apply. Additionally, the festival is welcoming proposals from musicians, workshop facilitators, panel speakers, food market vendors, and cultural retailers, all of whom contribute to shaping a vibrant and inclusive creative scene.
Applications Open Until 1 September 2025
Applications are being accepted from 30 June through 1 September 2025. A team of expert curators will evaluate submissions, selecting works that reflect authentic community narratives and artistic originality. Importantly, all works must be new and previously unexhibited. This requirement ensures that each edition of the festival offers fresh perspectives to the public and encourages artists to engage in creative experimentation.
Submissions must align with the Sikka Platform, and artists are encouraged to share work that reflects their unique viewpoint and resonates with the community’s identity. Interested applicants can submit entries online at: https://dubaiculture.gov.ae/events/sikka-category-2025
Record-Breaking 13th Edition Sets Stage for Bigger Impact
Last year’s 13th edition set new records and demonstrated Sikka’s growing significance in the regional art ecosystem. The event drew over 160,000 visitors and showcased the work of 364 artists, spanning 390 artworks and installations across 16 houses, 14 courtyards, and surrounding alleyways. Notably, 13 murals captured Dubai’s spirit and heritage with distinctive creative interpretations.
Beyond visual art, the festival hosted nearly 45 public installations, reinforcing the aims of the Dubai Public Art Strategy. Over 460 workshops in art, architecture, and traditional crafts engaged nearly 6,000 participants. Additionally, the festival featured 105 live shows, 18 theatrical acts, seven orchestra concerts, and nine piano recitals — enriching its multidisciplinary appeal.
The unique ‘Culinary House’ exhibited seven saffron-inspired artworks, while 17 retail spaces provided artists and makers with direct access to audiences. This platform supported over 50 entrepreneurs, helping them grow creatively and commercially.
With preparations underway for 2026, Dubai Culture’s call for participation invites the region’s creative community to build on this momentum — and reimagine the city’s cultural landscape once again.