The UAE has unveiled a new initiative encouraging artists and innovators to explore how artificial intelligence can be used to celebrate the country’s cultural identity. Offering a top prize of Dh50,000 the newly announced UAE AI art award invites creatives to produce original work that blends advanced technology with the richness of Emirati heritage.
The programme is a joint initiative by the Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF), G42 and the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI). By bringing together leaders from the fields of culture, technology and education, the organisers aim to encourage creative projects that reflect both innovation and tradition.
Award Encourages Original AI-Powered Creativity
The competition is open to UAE-based visual artists, designers, technologists and researchers, recognising that creativity today often extends beyond traditional artistic disciplines. Participants are encouraged to develop projects that use artificial intelligence in meaningful ways while remaining connected to the country’s history, values and cultural identity.
Rather than focusing only on technical ability, the award seeks ideas that demonstrate originality, thoughtful storytelling and responsible use of emerging technology. Organisers hope the initiative will encourage creators to explore how AI can become a tool for artistic expression without losing the human perspective behind every project.
Fellowship to Develop Promising Ideas
Applicants selected for the next stage will participate in a fellowship hosted by MBZUAI. During the programme, participants will work alongside researchers and specialists, gaining practical knowledge of AI tools while discussing the ethical and creative considerations involved in their use.
The fellowship is designed to help shortlisted candidates refine their concepts before the final judging stage. It also provides an opportunity to exchange ideas with experts working at the forefront of artificial intelligence, strengthening both technical understanding and creative development.
Supporting the UAE’s Creative and Innovation Vision
The launch of the award reflects the UAE’s broader commitment to advancing artificial intelligence while preserving its cultural heritage. In recent years, the country has invested significantly in AI research, higher education and digital innovation, while continuing to promote initiatives that celebrate Emirati traditions and artistic talent.
By encouraging projects that combine modern technology with cultural storytelling, the award highlights the role creative industries can play in shaping conversations about the future of AI. It also reinforces the importance of ensuring that technological progress continues to reflect local identity and community values.
Key Information for Applicants
The competition offers a Dh50,000 prize for the winning project and is open to eligible UAE based visual artists, designers, technologists and researchers. Shortlisted participants will take part in the MBZUAI fellowship before final selections are made. Entries close on 14 August 2026 and the winning work will be presented during Abu Dhabi Festival 2027.
As artificial intelligence continues to reshape creative industries around the world, the award offers a platform for UAE-based talent to explore new ideas while remaining inspired by the country’s heritage. For artists and innovators alike, it represents an opportunity to demonstrate how technology and culture can work together to produce original and meaningful creative work.
