New visa for artists as Sheikh Mohammed announces 'Schools of Life'

New initiatives aim to make Dubai a global art destination

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, and Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed, Chairwoman of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, meetShow more

Artists, authors and innovators will soon be able to apply for the UAE's first long-term cultural visa.

The announcement was made by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, after a meeting with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority on Tuesday.

Describing a "new cultural vision", Sheikh Mohammed said the authority, chaired by his daughter Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed, would use the emirate's 6,000 art and culture companies, five creative clusters, 20 museums and more than 550 annual cultural events to position Dubai as a global art destination.

"We have decided to give the first long-term cultural visa for innovators and have approved a free zone for innovators and artists in Al Quoz," he tweeted.

Sheikh Mohammed also announced plans to open seven "Schools of Life" – cultural centres that will teach young people life skills in art, innovation and creativity.

As part of efforts to boost the emirate's art scene, several events were announced, including a new literature season and an art exhibition to raise money for charity.

"A new international literature season will feature a book fair & events to attract over 2 million visitors," Sheikh Mohammed tweeted.

"We also approved launching Dubai’s architectural identity and the 'Art for Good' global exhibition that will raise funds for good causes."