Has the New Year brought up some new creative resolutions for you? There are a number of cultural spaces in the UAE that you can visit to ignite your creative spirit.
You can engage, create, and learn with several workshops at these top cultural spaces for art and creativity in the UAE.
For a truly cultural day out, make your way to the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, where a range of workshops cater to both adults and children. Located along the stunning Saadiyat Island, this museum offers immersive art sessions focused on specific techniques and themes drawn from its exhibitions, allowing participants to explore painting, sculpture, and drawing under the guidance of expert instructors.
After creating your own masterpiece, take the time to explore the museum’s diverse exhibitions. Interactive learning opportunities are also available, designed for children, educators, and families. These engaging resources invite visitors to deepen their experience, encouraging self-guided exploration of the collection, all while fostering personal connections with the diverse art.
Visit louvreabudhabi.ae
Ever dreamt of attending a writer’s workshop? Kutubna, Dubai’s newest independent bookstore and cultural centre, is the place to make that dream a reality. From free monthly mixers and writing group gatherings, to paid workshops created by renowned authors, it’s set to become your new creative go-to.
Writers can join the Thursday and Sunday groups, with the former dedicated to offering feedback and support on one member’s work each week. A highlight is Narratives of Familiar Spaces, led by author Kritika Arya, where participants explore how spaces shape identities, providing an inspiring platform for self-expression and creative growth.
Visit kutubna.ae
L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts is a striking destination at the heart of Dubai’s Design District, offering a wealth of practical and insightful jewellery experiences. From hands-on classes led by passionate experts – such as The Gouaché in High Jewelry 1: The Light – to thought-provoking talks and biannual exhibitions such as Men’s Rings Yves Gaston Collection (running until April 26th 2025), there’s something for every jewellery enthusiast to discover.
Renowned for its dedication to the study and appreciation of jewellery, the school has recently expanded its course offerings to include two fantastic new programmes – The Making of a Jewel and Discovering the World of Gemstones. Taking place during the first two weeks of each month, these courses cater to both beginners and advanced learners. Participants will gain practical experience and valuable insights into the enchanting world of jewellery. Before you leave, be sure to explore the extensive library of jewellery books – available for purchase, they also make for the perfect gift.
Visit lecolevancleefarpels.com
If you didn’t know already, Jameel Arts Centre is a cultural hotspot in Dubai, dedicated to promoting art and creative expression in the region. Offering a wide range of workshops –from painting and ceramics to photography – it caters to all skill levels, welcoming everyone from seasoned artists to those who are simply curious about the creative process.
With thoughtfully curated exhibitions, an engaging learning programme, and the dynamic The Assembly space, the centre provides enriching experiences for both youth and adults from local communities.
There’s always something happening, from workshops and talks to performances and screenings. Be sure to bookmark the website and stay up to date on each month’s activity. And don’t forget to swing by Art Jameel, where you can lose yourself among the art books and creative inspiration from the region.
Visit jameelartscentre.org
Head to the cultural capital of the UAE for a journey into art – Sharjah has so much to offer, so be sure to make a day of it. The Sharjah Art Foundation provides a dynamic platform for creative expression, bringing together artists and the local community through a variety of engaging workshops.
Upcoming courses include Telling Stories through Digital Characters, where participants can explore digital drawing techniques and create children’s stories inspired by William Kentridge, and Reading Aroma in Architecture, which examines the historical role of scent within architectural discourse. Both sessions are free, with all materials provided. Committed to inclusivity, the Foundation ensures accessibility for all, with symbols clearly marked on the registration form. For dates and availability of all the planned events, be sure to check the website.
Visit sharjahart.org
