Dubai Launches AED1 Billion Creative Sector Support Package

Dubai has launched a AED1 billion support package aimed at strengthening the emirate’s cultural and creative industries, as part of wider efforts to boost economic growth and support businesses across the sector.

The initiative, called the “Creative Sector Resilience Portfolio”, was launched by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai,

The programme is designed to help creative professionals, artists, cultural institutions and small businesses by improving access to funding, workspaces, training and market opportunities. Officials say it is intended to strengthen Dubai’s creative economy and support its long-term growth as a key contributor to the emirate’s development.

The portfolio is built around five main areas: cultural infrastructure, creative production, participation and audiences, talent development, and cultural impact. These include free multi-purpose venues for creatives, affordable workspaces, grant programmes, public art displays, and partnerships with both public and private sector organisations.

In line with the directives of Hamdan bin Mohammed to provide support measures for the economic sector, with a total value of AED1 billion, Latifa bint Mohammed launched the ‘Creative Sector Resilience Portfolio’.https://t.co/JhTxvEzEcl pic.twitter.com/OrDQurDtOU

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) April 29, 2026

Support will also include professional development through workshops, training courses and an ongoing e-learning initiative with LinkedIn, while retail and exhibition opportunities will be offered through partnerships including Majid Al Futtaim’s Ma’an programme and Art Dubai.

One of the plans will also see creative work displayed on outdoor billboards across the city, turning Dubai into what officials describe as an open-air gallery.

Sheikha Latifa said the initiative reflects Dubai’s focus on creativity as a sustainable economic driver and highlights the importance of investing in people and talent as part of the city’s future growth.

Officials say the programme will be delivered in phases, with each stage introducing new measures to strengthen the sector’s resilience and reinforce Dubai’s position as a global hub for culture and creativity.