Affordable studio spaces in a purpose-built contemporary arts complex supporting artistic research, experimentation, and production in the UAE.
18 June 2026
Open Call:
Sharjah Art Foundation is inviting applications from UAE-based artists and creative practitioners for studio leases at Al Hamriyah Studios, a multidisciplinary arts complex located in the coastal town of Al Hamriyah, Sharjah. The programme offers affordable studio spaces for artistic research, experimentation, and production, with leases available on short- and long-term terms.
Institutional Context:
Established by Sharjah Art Foundation in 2017, Al Hamriyah Studios occupies the site of a former souq and combines contemporary architecture with elements of the original market structure. Since opening, the venue has hosted exhibitions, installations, performances, screenings, and other cultural activities.
The studios form part of Sharjah Art Foundation’s broader Studio Programme, which supports artists and creative practitioners at different stages of their careers by providing access to affordable workspaces and opportunities for sustained artistic development.
Successful applicants will have access to both individual and shared facilities, including project spaces, communal areas, a courtyard, and garden spaces that encourage exchange and collaboration among practitioners.
Eligibility and Criteria:
Applications are open to artists and creative practitioners currently based in the United Arab Emirates.
Applicants are required to submit:
- A curriculum vitae of no more than two pages.
- A portfolio of recent work.
- Information regarding artistic discipline, preferred studio size, and proposed lease duration.
The opportunity is open to practitioners working across a broad range of disciplines, with studio spaces designed to accommodate diverse creative practices.
Evaluation Process:
Applications will be reviewed by Sharjah Art Foundation based on the strength of the applicant’s artistic practice, the quality of the submitted portfolio, and the suitability of the proposed use of the studio space. Preference will be given to applicants whose work demonstrates a clear commitment to artistic research, experimentation, and production.
Practical Information:
- Location: Al Hamriyah Studios, Al Hamriyah, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- Eligible Applicants: UAE-based artists and creative practitioners
- Lease Options: 3 to 6 months or 1 year
- Applications close on 11 July 2026 at 11:59 pm UAE time (GMT+4).
Available studio spaces include:
- Large Studio: Approximately 110 m² (8m × 13.8m × 4.6m) | AED 2,500 per month
- Medium Studio: Approximately 80 m² (8m × 10m × 4.6m) | AED 2,000 per month
- Small Studio: Approximately 32 m² (4m × 8m × 4.6m) | AED 1,000 per month
Facilities include shared project spaces, a pantry, restrooms, a courtyard, and outdoor areas within the studio complex.
Applications and Queries:
Applications must be submitted through Sharjah Art Foundation’s online application portal. Applicants should upload a CV and portfolio and indicate their preferred studio size and lease duration. Further information about the Studio Programme and application requirements can be found on the Sharjah Art Foundation website.
