Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has launched the open call for the 13th edition of the Sikka Art & Design Festival, which will be held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture, from 31 January to 9 February 2025 at Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood.
Application Process and Deadline
Dubai Culture invites all Emirati and UAE & GCC-based artists, creatives and designers to participate in the festival with their diverse works in visual arts, painting, sculpture, photography, design, murals, multimedia, culinary art and more. The festival will also feature interactive workshops, musical and cinematic performances, talks and panel discussions that enrich the local cultural movement and support the global art sector’s trends.
Submission Guidelines and Requirements
Dubai Culture will begin accepting applications on 8 August, with the deadline set for 8 October. A committee of experts and artists will then review the submissions and select the works eligible for the festival under the Sikka Platform. The open call invites established and emerging artists in the UAE and GCC, whether individually or in groups. Participants must present unique ideas that reflect their perspectives and the richness of the local art scene, use environmentally friendly materials, and ensure that their works are original, recent, and not previously displayed at other festivals or events. Creatives interested in participating can find all details and access the application form on the Authority’s website.
Through the Sikka Art & Design Festival, Dubai Culture not only aims to provide an innovative platform that brings together various types of arts but also celebrates both leading and emerging talent, including young artists from or residing in the UAE and the GCC. This initiative aligns with Dubai’s cultural vision to make the emirate a global center for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.
Previous Festival Success and Participation
The 12th edition of the festival successfully attracted over 162,000 visitors who viewed the collection of works that adorned the houses of Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood. Visitors engaged with the artistic and entertainment performances, workshops, and discussion sessions held throughout the 10-day festival. The event also saw the participation of over 500 Emirati and UAE & GCC-based artists who showcased around 300 different artworks in multiple forms across 14 houses.
To be part of the 13th Sikka Art & Design Festival 2025, visit https://dubaiculture.gov.ae/en/events/Sikka-25-Open-Call
