Dubai has unveiled a $272 million (AED 1 billion) support package for the economy, anchored by a new “Creative Sector Resilience Portfolio” to strengthen the emirate’s cultural and creative industries.

The initiative, introduced by Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, follows directives from Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to enhance economic resilience and support key sectors.

Built around five pillars, cultural infrastructure, creative production, participation and audiences, talent development, and cultural impact, the portfolio is designed to reinforce the creative ecosystem, support professionals, and drive long-term growth.

Sheikha Latifa said the initiative reflects Dubai’s proactive approach to navigating current challenges while positioning creativity as a sustainable economic driver.

“Dubai continues to play a leading role in empowering the cultural sector through innovative approaches that build capability and strengthen the ability to anticipate and adapt to challenges,” she said.

The portfolio also aims to expand market access and strengthen collaboration between government, the private sector, and the wider community, while supporting cultural institutions, SMEs, and individual creators.

The initiative builds on outcomes from a “Creative Sector Resilience” workshop held in collaboration with the Dubai Future Foundation, which brought together leaders from across the cultural and creative sectors to strengthen ecosystem readiness and reinforce Dubai’s position as a global creative hub.

Implementation will take place in phases, with each stage introducing initiatives that give creatives and institutions access to funding, spaces, professional development, and market opportunities.

Under the cultural infrastructure pillar, creatives will have access to free and subsidized workspaces and venues through partnerships with public and private entities. The creative production pillar focuses on funding and commissioning programs, including grants and collaborations with organizations such as Art Jameel and Art Dubai.

Talent development efforts will include e-learning programs in partnership with LinkedIn, alongside workshops and training designed to strengthen skills and expand market access.

The participation and audiences pillar will support promotional efforts and create retail and exhibition opportunities through partnerships with private sector entities.

The cultural impact pillar will expand public engagement by showcasing creative works across outdoor spaces, positioning Dubai as an open-air gallery.