How to join calligraphy competitions in UAE?

Have you ever marveled at the intricate swirls and graceful lines of Arabic calligraphy, a timeless art form that transcends mere writing to become a profound expression of culture and beauty? If you’re passionate about this ancient craft and looking to hone your skills or simply immerse yourself in its world, the United Arab Emirates offers several fantastic opportunities to engage with, and even compete in, calligraphy.

The Prominence of Calligraphy in the UAE

Arabic calligraphy is not just an art form in the UAE; it’s a vital part of its cultural identity and heritage. You’ll see it adorning everything from majestic mosque domes and government buildings to modern art installations and everyday signage. This deep appreciation for the written word means there’s a strong institutional and community support for calligraphy, leading to numerous events, workshops, and indeed, competitions. The UAE actively promotes Arabic calligraphy as an authentic traditional art, striving to enhance its importance and special status on historical and Islamic levels, making it a fertile ground for calligraphers to thrive.

Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial: A Global Stage

When it comes to calligraphy competitions in the UAE, the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial stands out as the most significant and prestigious event. Organized by the Directorate of Cultural Affairs at the Department of Culture in Sharjah, this biennial (held every two years) attracts local, Arab, and international participation. The 11th edition, for example, took place from October to November 2024.

• Competition Sections: The Biennial includes a general exhibition with a competition section, often featuring multiple prizes. It encourages various styles of calligraphy, both classic and contemporary.
• Theme: Each edition typically has a specific theme, such as “Inscriptions” for the 11th edition, which provides calligraphers with a broad artistic canvas for creative works.
• Associated Events: Beyond the competition, the Biennial is a comprehensive celebration of calligraphy, offering solo exhibitions of honored calligraphers, parallel international seminars, art workshops, and lectures by renowned experts. This makes it an ideal event for both aspiring calligraphers and seasoned artists to connect, learn, and showcase their talents.
• Participation: Details on participation, including rules, required text, and submission deadlines, are usually announced well in advance through the Sharjah Department of Culture‘s official channels and their dedicated Biennial website. Keep an eye on their announcements closer to the next biennial, likely in late 2026.

Dubai Calligraphy Biennale: A New Frontier

Dubai has also stepped into the spotlight with its own Dubai Calligraphy Biennale, initiated by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture). The inaugural Biennale launched in October 2023, aiming to promote creative cultural dialogues and keep calligraphic artwork at the forefront of Arab world output.

• Competition Element: While the initial Biennale might have focused more on exhibitions, workshops, and creative challenges, future editions are expected to formalize competition elements, providing platforms for top calligraphers.
• Workshops and Courses: Dubai Culture frequently offers Arabic Calligraphy, Ornamentation, and Gilding Courses as part of its initiatives. These specialized courses cover various calligraphy styles like Thuluth, Naskh, Diwani Jali, and Ruq’ah, and are designed to nurture emerging talents. While not directly competitions, participation in these courses can hone skills and connect you with the calligraphy community, leading to competition opportunities. Locations often include Dubai Public Libraries and cultural centers like Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children.
• Platforms: Keep an eye on the official Dubai Culture website and the dedicated Dubai Calligraphy Biennale website for updates on future competitions and associated events.

Abu Dhabi’s Focus on Calligraphy Education and Events

Abu Dhabi, through its cultural institutions, heavily invests in promoting Arabic calligraphy, often leading to opportunities for showcasing skills.

• Cultural Foundation: The Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi regularly hosts workshops and courses in Arabic calligraphy, ranging from basics for children to advanced sessions for adults. For example, in June 2025, the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre organized the “Beauty of Arabic Calligraphy” event at the Cultural Foundation, which included workshops and lectures by renowned artists like Khalid Al Jallaf, President of the Emirates Society for Arabic Calligraphy. While not always direct competitions, these events sometimes feature showcases or informal challenges for participants.
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: This iconic museum occasionally offers masterclasses related to Islamic scriptures and calligraphy, such as the “Letters of Light masterclass” observed in early 2024. These specialized workshops, while not competitions, significantly enhance calligraphic skills, preparing participants for future contests.
• Etihad Modern Art Gallery (EMAG): Located in Abu Dhabi, EMAG is a multi-purpose art space that frequently hosts exhibitions featuring prominent calligraphy artists from the region. While primarily an exhibition space, their engagement with top calligraphers might lead to collaboration or competition announcements. They often showcase works by artists like Wissam Shawkat, known for his monumental calligraphic installations.
• Khawla Art & Culture: This art and culture hub in Abu Dhabi also frequently organizes workshops and exhibitions related to Arabic calligraphy. Their “Arabic Calligraphy Week” or workshops by artists like Magdy Elkafrawy (seen in early 2025) provide learning opportunities and a platform for showcasing refined skills.

Joining Competitions: Essential Steps and Rules

To successfully join calligraphy competitions in the UAE, here are some key steps and rules to keep in mind:

• Stay Informed: Regularly check the websites and social media channels of key cultural institutions like Sharjah Department of Culture, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation, and entities like Al Huroof (who organize international contests). These are your primary sources for competition announcements, themes, and deadlines.
• Understand the Theme and Text: Competitions often have specific themes or require calligraphers to write particular verses (e.g., from the Quran) or poems. Adhering to these requirements is crucial. For instance, the Al Huroof International Arabic Calligraphy Contest in December 2024 specified particular verses from the Quran or a poem.
• Follow Technical Specifications: Pay close attention to technical requirements like paper size (e.g., 35×50 cm), permitted colors (often black ink only, but sometimes other colors are allowed), and packaging for artwork submission (e.g., airtight packaging).
• Linguistic Accuracy: For Arabic calligraphy, linguistic and spelling accuracy is paramount. Errors in this regard can lead to disqualification.
• Choose Your Style: Most competitions allow various types of Arabic calligraphy (e.g., Thuluth, Naskh, Diwani, Ruq’ah, Kufi, Nastaliq, Moalla), or even your own freestyle, as long as it demonstrates mastery and adheres to the rules.
• Register and Submit: Follow the registration process carefully, which often involves online forms. Ensure your artwork is submitted to the specified address by the deadline.
• Learn and Practice: To excel, consider enrolling in calligraphy courses offered by institutes like The Palette Art Training and Consultancy, Al Ramsa Institute, or Bait Al Jouda Consultation and Training in Dubai, or The School of Calligraphy & Ornamentation (SOCO) in Fujairah. These courses provide foundational skills and advanced techniques.

The Rewards of Participation

Joining calligraphy competitions in the UAE offers more than just a chance to win prizes (which can be substantial, like the AED 6,000 for a first winner in some contests). It provides an invaluable opportunity to gain exposure, have your work judged by renowned calligraphers, connect with a community of passionate artists, and contribute to the preservation and evolution of this profound art form. It’s a journey of continuous learning and artistic growth, deeply rooted in the rich cultural tapestry of the Emirates.

The www.few.ae team encourages you to delve into the captivating world of Arabic calligraphy in the UAE and find your unique expression within its beautiful traditions. What specific calligraphy style are you hoping to master for your next competition?