UAE Open Calls to Have on Your Radar This August
Looking for creative opportunities in the UAE? Discover open calls for artists, designers and creatives, from Dubai Design Week and Sikka to Burj Khalifa and World Art Dubai.
Image courtesy of World Art Dubai
Opportunities for Artists, Designers and Creatives
August might be a bit quieter on the cultural scene, but there are still lots of chances for artists, designers, and creative professionals all over the UAE.
This month’s open calls cover exhibitions, public art, design, tech and multidisciplinary projects, giving you opportunities to showcase your work, connect with new audiences, and get involved with some of the region’s top cultural platforms.
From Dubai Design Week to Sikka and Burj Khalifa, here are four open calls to check out this month.
Dubai Design Week: UAE Designer Exhibitions
Dubai Design District, Dubai
Deadline: 15 August 2026
Dubai Design Week invites cultural organisations, educational institutions, collectives and individual designers to propose exhibitions for its 2026 programme.
The call welcomes projects exploring architecture, design and emerging technologies, particularly those addressing contemporary cultural, social and environmental conditions. It is an opportunity to develop an innovative exhibition concept and contribute to Dubai’s evolving design landscape.
Visit: dubaidesignweek
Sikka 2027
Al Fahidi, Dubai
Deadline: 17 August 2026
Dubai Culture has launched its open call for Sikka 2027, inviting artists, designers, photographers, performers, culinary professionals and creative retailers to participate.
The multidisciplinary festival provides a platform for creatives to share their work and connect with audiences across Dubai. For practitioners working across art, design, photography, performance and creative culture, Sikka offers an opportunity to become part of the city’s cultural programme.
Visit: SikkaOpenCall
Light Up Burj Khalifa: A Projection Design Competition
Downtown Dubai
Deadline: 18 August 2026
Emaar is inviting creatives to submit an audiovisual projection design for the chance to have their work displayed across Burj Khalifa’s iconic façade.
The competition celebrates innovation, artistry and Dubai’s creative spirit, offering selected work an extraordinary public platform. For artists and designers working with moving image, light and technology, it is an opportunity to transform one of Dubai’s most recognisable landmarks.
Visit: burjkhalifa.ae
On Mending – The Art Circle Award 2026
Alserkal Arts Foundation, Dubai
Deadline: 10 September 2026
The Art Circle Award returns with this year’s theme, ‘On Mending’, inviting artists to explore ideas of repair, restoration and renewal through their practice.
The annual award supports the local art scene and recognises emerging talent, with winners selected by a jury of art and culture professionals. The winner receives a financial prize, with the artwork also joining The Art Circle collection.
Visit: theartcircle.ae
World Art Dubai Emerging Artist Prize 2026
Expo City Dubai, UAE
Deadline: 31 October 2026
World Art Dubai is inviting emerging illustrators, animators and digital creators to submit work for its 2026 Emerging Artist Prize.
This year’s theme, ‘Threads of Connection’, explores how technology shapes human connection, communication and empathy. Ten shortlisted artists will have their work exhibited at World Art Dubai, with two winners selected for the Grand Winner and People’s Choice awards.
Visit: worldartdubai