Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has officially launched the third edition of the Emirati Chefs Grant for Productive Families, hosted in collaboration with the Community Development Authority (CDA) and the International Centre for Culinary Arts (ICCA Dubai). The initiative is designed to empower families by developing their entrepreneurial skills and celebrate the nation’s rich hospitality traditions, reflecting Dubai’s commitment to nurturing local talent while elevating traditional Emirati Cuisine on the global stage. 

The programme allows participants to equip themselves with essential skills to transform their culinary passions into sustainable businesses. Dubai Culture will also support the education and training of 10 participants from productive families through a holistic culinary arts empowerment programme. Through practical workshops and expert mentorship from the ICCA Dubai, these aspiring chefs will learn to blend authentic flavours with contemporary interpretation. 

Highlighting the programme’s cultural impact, Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture emphasised that the initiative allows participants to refine their skills and explore new opportunities for innovation. She noted that honouring Emirati traditional recipes helps preserve an integral part of the UAE’s collective heritage while enriching the region’s creative economy. 

Maitha Al Shamsi, CEO of the Community Empowerment Sector at the Community Development Authority (CDA), noted that supporting home-based entrepreneurs is an extension of CDA’s efforts to empower community members, in alignment with the goals of the Dubai Social Agenda 33 to build a more cohesive and prosperous society by investing in individuals’ capabilities and creating opportunities that contribute to improving their quality of life.

Part of the broader Dubai Cultural Grant Scheme, the initiative also opens doors for participants to be part of major cultural, artistic, and entertainment events and festivals hosted across Dubai throughout the year.