Second phase of National Creative Relief Programme supports 53 individuals and organisations

Since its launch, the scheme has provided grants totalling Dh4.6 million to the UAE creative sector

Noura Al Kaabi as Minister of Culture and Youth. MCKD

The National Creative Relief Programme continues to aid the UAE creative sector in its time of need.

Launched by the Ministry of Culture and Youth, the programme is in its second phase, with grants having been provided to freelancers and small businesses affected by the coronavirus pandemic.

As part of its second phase, the initiative has supported 53 individuals and organisations with grants ranging from Dh15,000 to Dh75,000. Since its launch in May, the programme has provided grants totalling Dh4.6 million to the UAE's creative sectors. The cash injection went towards supporting creatives in various fields, including performance, literature, multimedia and visual arts, as well as design.

The grants covered the entirety of average monthly financial obligations for individuals, and a month and a half for companies.

Applications for the second phase of grants, which UAE residents and Emiratis were eligible to apply for, closed on July 14.

Each submission had been evaluated by a committee that examined various aspects, including the size of losses, the financial setback and the production of creative content in the UAE in 2019.

“The National Creative Relief Programme carries the values of solidarity and compassion that are inherent in the UAE society,” said Noura Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Youth.

“These values not only help overcome an exceptional circumstance all over the world, but also help individuals and companies to continue their creative practice and ensure that the cultural sector has a positive impact on the development process in the country.”

Al Kaabi also underscored the important role that creativity plays in UAE society.

"Creativity is a reflection of a strong society,” she said. “The more creative the society is, the more powerful it is to face challenges and overcome them to create a better future.”