Latest news with #ArtDubai
Gulf Today
7 hours ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Open call for submissions for 7th Ithra Art Prize announced by KSA
The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) has announced the open call for the 7th edition of the biennial Ithra Art Prize, an art grant supporting contemporary art across the Arab world. Submissions officially opened on July 24 and will be accepted till October 16, 2025. Founded in 2017, the prize is a valuable platform for artists from the region. With a grand award of USD 100,000, the winning artwork will find a permanent home in Ithra's forever art collection. In a significant expansion from previous years, the prize, through an appointed jury, will bestow production grants to five finalists for showcasing their work in an exhibition at Ithra, in the spring of 2026. The exhibition is a new highlight of the prize, as it returns the award to its home in KSA's Eastern Province, contributing to the artists' evolving legacies and aiming to amplify the discourse on contemporary art in the region. The final winner will be selected during the course of the exhibition. As part of its evolving approach, both new commissions and also recontextualised existing works, are eligible to apply. The Ithra Art Prize recognises artists whose practices are intellectually engaged, contextually grounded, and developed through sustained inquiry over time. Submitted works must also reflect artists' ongoing practice and research. The prize is open to individual artists and collectives aged 18 and older, should be of Arab heritage or be currently residing in one of the 22 Arab countries. E Pluribus Unum by Nadia Kaabi-Linke. Farah Abushullaih, Head of Ithra's Museum, said that 'the Ithra Art Prize supports artists who engage creatively and critically with conditions and ideas that speak to the diverse contexts of our region. The 7th Edition of the Ithra Art Prize marks a homecoming that expands the Prize's scope through an exhibition at Ithra, featuring multiple works in dialogue with one another.' The Ithra Art Prize is a premier platform for contemporary artists and celebrates a wide range of practices and perspectives. Past winners have exhibited at leading institutions within the Kingdom and internationally. They include Ayman Zedani (2018) for Mem, unveiled at Art Dubai; Daniah Al Saleh (2019), who won the second edition with Sawtam, an audiovisual installation based on Arabic phonemes, also unveiled at Art Dubai and exhibited later at the State Hermitage Museum, Russia; and Fahad bin Naif (2020), awarded for Rakhm, an installation exploring themes of environmental preservation and urban ecosystems. In 2021, Nadia Kaabi-Linke won with E Pluribus Unum, presented at the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale. E Pluribus Unum explored the impact of the global pandemic. The following year, Adel Abidin (2023), an Iraqi-Finnish artist, received the fifth edition prize for his large-scale installation ON. Most recently, in 2024, Obaid Alsafi was the sixth edition winner for his evocative installation Palms in Eternal Embrace, which debuted at the AlUla Arts Festival. Obaid's piece drew inspiration from Saudi Arabia's rich history and landscapes, referencing the 5,000-year-old sandstone pillars found in the artist's birthplace, the historical town of Qaryat Al Faw, and the ancient Rajajil Columns found in Al Jawf region, north of Saudi Arabia. Not only an architectural marvel, the Rajajil Columns were used to observe the stars and seasonal changes, and has recently provided evidence of the effects of climate change in the Arabian Peninsula. With its 7th edition, the Ithra Art Prize continues its founding mission of supporting artistic excellence, connecting Arab creatives to global audiences, and nurturing a thriving cultural ecosystem across the region and beyond. The Ithra Art Prize is one of the most significant awards dedicated to contemporary artists from or based in the 22 Arab countries. The biannual prize initially focused on Saudi and Saudi-based artists, and later expanded its fourth edition to include practices from across the wider Arab region. Farah Abushullaih, Head of Ithra's Museum. Offered by the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra), the prize's mandate is to spark cultural curiosity, foster original thought and expression, and celebrate work that reflects intellectually engaged and contextually responsive approaches. The winning artist is awarded by an international jury with a USD 100,000 grant, and his or her work is acquired by the Ithra Collection, helping shape both their artistic legacy and furthering the evolving discourse of contemporary Arab art. With every edition, Ithra aims to contribute to the region's creative ecosystem by providing a platform for contemporary artists to project their talent and forge partnerships with leading regional institutions, including Art Dubai, the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, and the AlUla Arts Festival. The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) — meaning 'enrichment' in Arabic — was built as part of Saudi Aramco's vision to create an ambitious initiative for the public. Ithra is the Kingdom's leading cultural and creative destination for talent development and cross-cultural experiences. Since its inaugural in 2018, each of Ithra's programmes has served as windows to global experiences, celebrating human potential and empowering creativity. Ithra's operating pillars include culture, creativity, community, art, and knowledge. With the visionary platforms and key initiatives, the art and culture body offers workshops, performances, and events. The leading cultural destination is located in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia. With a focus on enriching people's lives by offering impactful cultural and creative programmes and initiatives, since its opening Ithra has also become a distinguished architectural landmark that houses the Idea Lab, Library, Theater, Museum, Cinema, Great Hall, Energy Exhibit, Children's Museum and Knowledge Tower.
UAE Moments
a day ago
- Business
- UAE Moments
Applications Open for Campus Art Dubai Professional Development
Campus Art Dubai (CAD) 13.0 Professional Development has officially opened applications for its latest cycle, inviting aspiring art professionals to gain immersive, hands-on experience within the creative industries. This highly regarded programme is designed to offer young talent and early-career creatives deep insight into the inner workings of the art and culture sector, helping them build essential skills, develop industry networks, and explore key roles within the regional art ecosystem. Over a period of three to six months leading up to Art Dubai 2026, selected participants will join the Art Dubai team across departments such as Fair Management, Operations & Logistics, Communications, VIP & Exhibitor Relations, Sponsorships, Programming, and Design. Each participant will have the opportunity to take on real responsibilities that reflect the dynamic, fast-paced environment of one of the world's leading international art fairs. In addition to practical experience, CAD 13.0 provides unparalleled access to professional development resources. Participants will attend exclusive masterclasses led by Art Dubai Group's senior staff, benefit from one-on-one mentorship sessions, and receive tailored guidance aligned with their career ambitions. The programme is ideal for creatives who are eager to understand how the art world operates—from logistics and marketing to curatorial planning and cultural engagement. With a strong focus on developing regionally relevant skills, CAD 13.0 equips participants with the tools needed to navigate and thrive in the MENA region's creative industries. As Art Dubai 2026 approaches, CAD 13.0 is set to play a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of cultural leaders. Interested applicants are encouraged to apply soon and take advantage of this rare opportunity to launch their careers with the guidance of one of the region's most influential art platforms.
CairoScene
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- CairoScene
Ithra Opens Call For 7th Edition of Its Regional Art Prize
Submissions are now open for one of the Arab world's most generous art grants, with a USD 100,000 prize and production support. Submissions are now open for the seventh edition of the Ithra Art Prize, one of the Arab world's most generous awards for contemporary artists. Founded by the King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra) in Dhahran, Saudi Arabia, the biennial prize awards USD 100,000 to a single artist, whose work will be added to Ithra's permanent collection. For the first time, five additional finalists will also receive production grants, with all six works to be presented in a group exhibition set for spring 2026. Open to artists of Arab heritage or those based in any of the 22 Arab countries, the prize welcomes both new commissions and reimagined existing works that reflect a sustained artistic practice rooted in research and critical inquiry. Submissions are open until October 16, 2025. Since launching in 2017, the Ithra Art Prize has grown into a regional platform for contemporary Arab art. Past winners—including Ayman Zedani, Daniah Al Saleh, and Obaid Alsafi—have leveraged the prize to expand their international presence. Previous winning works have also debuted at major cultural events such as Art Dubai, the Diriyah Biennale, and the AlUla Arts Festival.
Arab News
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Arab News
Saudi Arabia's Ithra launches open call for $100,000 art prize
DHAHRAN: Artists across the region are invited to apply for the Ithra Art Prize, with $100,000 up for grabs and the chance to have their work displayed at one of the Middle East's leading cultural institutions. The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) announced the open call for the seventh edition, with the head of the museum calling it one of area's 'most generous and influential' art grants. Artists from across the Arab world can submit their proposals via the Ithra website, with a deadline of Oct. 16. This edition will also, for the first time, recognize five finalists with production grants. Their work, along with the winning commission, will be exhibited at Ithra's headquarters in spring 2026. Launched in 2017, the prize initially focused on Saudi and Saudi-based artists but was expanded in its fourth edition to include contemporary artists of Arab heritage across 22 countries. Farah Abushullaih, Ithra's head of museum, told Arab News it served as 'an open invitation to artists to speak in their own voice.' She said: 'We're looking for proposals that reflect depth, authenticity and a clear vision. What stands out is work that is intellectually grounded and emotionally resonant.' Both new commissions and re-contextualized existing works are accepted, provided they are closely linked to the artist's ongoing research and creative trajectory. Applicants must be aged 18 or older and of Arab heritage or residing in one of the 22 Arab countries. Both individual artists and collectives may apply. 'The prize is about expanding the region's cultural conversations through bold, original ideas. Ithra is committed to supporting them every step of the way, from conception to creation and beyond,' said Abushullaih. The Ithra Art Prize has played a pivotal role in advancing contemporary art from the region since its inception. Past winners have displayed their works at leading cultural events including Art Dubai, the Diriyah Contemporary Art Biennale and the AlUla Arts Festival. Abushullaih said: 'Ithra continually evolves its programs to reflect the changing artistic landscape and needs of the Kingdom and the region. In the case of the Ithra Art Prize, this goes beyond funding; we offer a platform for dialogue, critical thinking and meaningful cultural exchange.' She added sustaining this impact was an ongoing commitment. 'It requires long-term investment in artists' development, authentic community engagement and creating opportunities for works to resonate, both locally and globally. We want Ithra to be a meeting place for cultures to interact, share, and grow,' she said. Looking ahead, Ithra is already in discussions to present the winner's work beyond Dhahran. 'Partnerships and collaborations have always been central to how we develop our programs and extend the reach of the artists we support,' said Abushullaih. 'We are in dialogue with institutions based in Saudi Arabia and internationally to explore ways for the seventh edition of the prize to be seen by a wider audience and experienced in new contexts beyond Ithra.'
Hi Dubai
5 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Surviving the Off-Season: How Seasonal Businesses in Dubai Can Stay Profitable Year-Round
Seasonal businesses play a vital role in Dubai's economy. Whether it's a desert safari operator thriving in winter or a beachside café buzzing during tourist months, these ventures drive both culture and commerce. However, sustaining such a business year-round can be daunting, especially during Dubai's scorching summer months, when footfall drops and operational costs remain. The good news is: Seasonality doesn't have to mean instability. With thoughtful planning, creative marketing, and strategic use of downtime, businesses can weather the off-season and even use it to grow stronger. In this article, we explore how to sustain a seasonal business in Dubai by identifying the challenges, offering real-world strategies, and highlighting examples of local businesses that have turned seasonal constraints into long-term opportunities. Understanding Seasonality in Dubai's Business Landscape Dubai's business ecosystem is deeply affected by seasonal patterns, particularly tied to weather, tourism, and cultural calendars. Peak season generally spans November to March, when the weather is pleasant, global tourists flock in, and major events like Art Dubai, Gulfood, and Dubai Shopping Festival take place. The off-season, meanwhile, typically runs from May through September, when high temperatures (often above 45°C) and school breaks lead to reduced outdoor activity. Industries most affected include: Tourism and desert activities (e.g., safaris, dune bashing, open-air tours) (e.g., safaris, dune bashing, open-air tours) Outdoor cafés, restaurants, and beach clubs Event planning and entertainment services Seasonal markets and pop-up retail vendors The economic slowdown during summer can be significant. For example, many open-air eateries report up to 60% reduction in footfall during the hottest months. Similarly, experiential travel operators may pause or downscale completely, resulting in financial strain and talent loss. Understanding these patterns helps seasonal businesses prepare—not just to survive, but to adapt and capitalize on the opportunities the off-season can bring. Operational Strategies for Year-Round Sustainability To navigate seasonality effectively, businesses need to build flexibility into their operations. Here are a few strategies that can make a tangible difference: Embrace Flexible Staffing Models Hiring part-time or contract workers during peak months allows businesses to manage labor costs during slower periods. Retaining a core team year-round ensures consistency while giving you the freedom to scale as needed. Inventory and Utility Planning Track sales patterns and avoid over-ordering before the off-season. Reduce your utility costs by optimizing AC use, lighting, and operational hours. Some businesses even negotiate temporary pauses in service contracts during slow months. Diversify Revenue Streams Introduce products or services that work year-round. A winter-based outdoor fitness brand could offer online coaching during summer. An event company might provide corporate training packages or team-building kits for indoor settings. Use Off-Season for Maintenance and Upgrades When footfall is low, it's the perfect time to renovate, revamp menus, retrain staff, or experiment with new service models. This proactive use of downtime often leads to stronger performance in the next high season. Introduce Subscription or Prepayment Models Offer your most loyal customers off-season discounts in exchange for prepaid seasonal passes or vouchers. This creates a steady cash flow and encourages long-term engagement. When your operations are structured for adaptability, your business becomes more resilient, even when the crowd thins out. Marketing Tactics to Stay Visible During the Slow Months Staying at the top of mind during the off-season is essential for long-term survival. Smart marketing ensures your business remains part of the conversation, even when footfall dips. Here's how: Develop Off-Season Offers and Loyalty Rewards Create compelling promotions targeted at locals and repeat customers. A desert safari company could launch a summer-themed indoor photo experience with discounts for returning guests. Restaurants could introduce off-season loyalty cards that unlock free meals or discounts when business is slower. Focus on Local Residents While tourists may decline during summer, residents remain, and they seek value and variety. Tailor your messaging to locals with UAE-centric offers like 'Summer Specials' or discounted group packages for schools, corporates, and communities. Use Digital Channels Consistently Continue posting on Instagram, LinkedIn, and Google Business even in the off-season. Share behind-the-scenes content, summer maintenance updates, or previews of new offerings for the next peak period. These keep your audience engaged without heavy ad spend. Repurpose User-Generated Content Encourage your past customers to share memories of their visits and tag your business. Reposting this content keeps your social feed alive with minimal effort, while reinforcing credibility through social proof. Run Email and WhatsApp Campaigns Use your CRM or email lists to maintain warm communication. Offer early bird booking windows, sneak peeks at upcoming seasonal menus, or limited-time online store discounts. Host Niche Events or Pop-Ups If your main business slows down, try organizing a niche pop-up indoors or at a summer-friendly venue. An outdoor cinema business could partner with a hotel to host indoor movie nights. These events double as marketing and test ideas for new revenue streams. Collaborate with Complementary Businesses Partner with brands that target the same audience. A frozen treat shop could collaborate with a gym or wellness studio for a joint summer promotion. These co-branded campaigns amplify visibility with shared marketing costs. Effective off-season marketing helps you stay relevant, visible, and in touch with your audience until the next peak season returns. Using the Off-Season to Build Long-Term Value The quieter months don't have to be a period of loss. They can be a period of learning, reflection, and innovation. Here's how seasonal businesses in Dubai can use this time strategically: Audit Your Business Performance Review your last season's results. Which services performed best? Which marketing campaigns brought in real engagement? Use these insights to make data-driven decisions for the upcoming season. Strengthen Your Team Invest in staff development. Offer training sessions, workshops, or team-building activities. Well-trained and motivated staff are more likely to deliver high-quality service when the business gets busy again. Refresh Your Brand or Offerings Is your visual branding still relevant? Could your service menu use an update? Use the downtime to refresh your website, rebrand your collateral, or test out new product lines. Build Relationships and Plan Collaborations This is a good time to reach out to potential partners, sponsors, or collaborators for the next high season. Joint planning can lead to more successful and cost-effective campaigns. Prepare for Peak with Intentional Planning Refine your logistics, supply chain, or tech stack to ensure smooth operations when the demand returns. Pre-book inventory or finalize vendor agreements to lock in better rates. Using the off-season to sharpen your edge gives your business the best chance to succeed when the peak period returns. Sustaining a seasonal business in Dubai requires a shift in mindset. Instead of viewing the off-season as downtime, smart businesses treat it as a launchpad for improvement. From optimizing internal systems and exploring new revenue models to deepening customer loyalty, the off-season holds untapped potential. Dubai's climate may create distinct business cycles, but with proactive planning and creative engagement, your business can achieve consistency and resilience all year long. Seasonality doesn't have to be a weakness—it can be your greatest strategic advantage. Also Read: Why Hype Marketing Doesn't Always Work for Dubai Businesses Dubai's brands are chasing hype, but real success lies in trust, quality, and long-term growth—not fleeting viral moments. Cash Flow is King: Why Sales Don't Equal Solvency for New Businesses in Dubai Learn why cash flow is vital for new businesses in Dubai, even with high sales. Discover key strategies to manage cash, avoid common pitfalls, and ensure long-term solvency. UAE Investors Turn to Lifestyle Assets as Hospitality and Leisure Deliver Faster Returns Agon Capital boosts lifestyle asset focus to 60%, citing faster ROI, strong demand, and plans for regional and global expansion. Dubai Launches Major Initiative to Promote Volunteerism Across All Communities Dubai's CDA launches a new initiative to mainstream volunteerism, engaging over 59,000 registered volunteers and introducing inclusive programs like senior and people of determination-led teams.
