Calling all creatives: How you can win AED 80,000 for your startup in Dubai

Dubai Culture has opened applications for the third Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Competition, inviting UAE-based early-stage creative startups to apply for a share of a AED 160,000 prize pool, with first place receiving AED 80,000. The competition is part of the third Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Forum, which is scheduled to take place in the last quarter of 2026. Applications are open until July 12, 2026.

"This is your chance to boost your business and win up to AED 80,000 in funding," the announcement states, underscoring the initiative's focus on supporting nascent businesses in the cultural and creative industries.

The contest targets startups that began operations less than two years ago and are based in the UAE. Entrants should have a functional prototype where applicable and operate within cultural and creative sectors including, but not limited to, advertising and marketing; architecture, urban planning and interior design; broadcasting; handicrafts, arts and antiques; graphic, industrial, product, fashion and digital design; film, cinema and animation; music production and performance; performing arts; literature and publishing; e-gaming; heritage; photography, film, podcasting and content production; visual arts; and culinary arts and gastronomy.

Application process and required documents

• Submit applications online via the Dubai Culture creative competition form (applicants can access the form at the agency's e-services portal).
• Log in with UAE PASS or continue as a guest.
• Provide personal and business details including full name, nationality and a business description.
• Attach: passport copy, professional resume/CV, business profile (company organisational chart, founder profiles, employee bios), and a business pitch deck detailing proposal, value proposition, target audience, operations plan, revenue strategy, marketing approach and a plan for how the grant would be used.
• Submit the application before the deadline: July 12, 2026.

Entries will be assessed for eligibility and shortlisted applicants will be invited to pitch at the Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Forum in late 2026. A jury at the forum will evaluate presentations and select the winners.

Evaluation criteria and prizes

• Total prize pool: AED 160,000.
• First prize: AED 80,000; second prize: AED 50,000; third prize: AED 30,000.
• Evaluation will consider innovation and creativity, market understanding and growth potential, sustainability of resources and revenue, and the project’s impact on the cultural and creative industries, including contributions to innovation, cultural diversity and job creation.

The competition is positioned to spotlight early-stage creative ventures and to funnel practical seed funding and visibility to promising cultural businesses in Dubai. Shortlisted teams will gain the opportunity to present to a jury during the forum, and winners will receive cash awards intended to accelerate their development and market entry.