UAE Ministry Of Culture Initiates Modern Heritage Research Grants For Architectural Studies

The Ministry of Culture, in partnership with Zayed University, has introduced the ‘Modern Heritage Research Grants’ programme. This initiative is part of a national effort to preserve and promote the UAE's modern architectural heritage. It focuses on supporting research into the country's architectural history from the 1960s to the 1990s, endorsed by Majra’s ‘Sustainable Impact’ seal.

Up to 20 grants will be awarded to individuals, researchers, and enthusiasts who will critically examine the UAE’s modern architecture and its regional connections. The programme aims to fill knowledge gaps, raise awareness, and foster collaboration between academic institutions and the wider community.

Mubarak Al Nakhi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, stated that this programme is a vital part of their strategy to preserve modern architectural heritage. He said it acts as a bridge connecting past and future. "The Modern Heritage Research Grants programme represents a key component of our national strategy to preserve and safeguard modern architectural heritage, which serves as a bridge connecting the past with the future," he noted.

Al Nakhi emphasised that these grants are meant to encourage rigorous research and creativity. "These grants are designed to encourage rigorous research and creativity to interpret our heritage with critical awareness and connect it to regional and global architectural movements," he added.

The programme includes two main research categories: creative and academic. Creative research involves producing films, illustrations, materials, and photographic works that highlight architectural features from this era. Academic research supports written works exploring various aspects of the country's modern architectural heritage.

Grants are available under different categories like Modern Heritage Research Grants and Modern Heritage Research Fellowship. Researchers, practitioners, academics, and individuals interested in UAE’s modern architectural heritage can apply for these opportunities.

Application Details

The programme is open to both UAE residents and non-residents. Each project must be completed within six months as per application guidelines. Grants up to AED50,000 will be awarded per proposal. Proposals related to or based on master’s theses are also welcome if they are original and well-researched.

Applications for the first cycle begin on 1st January 2025, closing on 31st July 2025. Grant recipients will be announced in October 2025. This initiative seeks not only to preserve but also inspire future generations through informed exploration of UAE's rich architectural history.

With inputs from WAM