AED 1 million fund to support study of UAE history, culture

Zayed National Museum has announced annual funds of AED 1 million to support research on the UAE’s culture and history, and the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

The scheme includes both large and small grants, aimed at empowering a new generation of scholars.

Funding priorities include research into the role of Sheikh Zayed in driving social, cultural, and economic impact; the history and archaeology of the UAE; and the country’s intangible heritage including oral history on traditions, stories, and songs.

The grants will also focus on the UAE’s engagement with other countries within the Arabian Peninsula and Indian Ocean world from prehistory to the recent past.

Researchers may apply until July 15, 2023, and grants will be announced in September. The funding is renewable for up to three consecutive years.

Zayed National Museum has launched an annual grant scheme to support research into UAE culture and history, examine Founding Father Sheikh Zayed’s legacy and empower a new generation of scholars, with researchers encouraged to apply before 15 July 2023. pic.twitter.com/uKPrZEorih

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Applications will be reviewed by a panel comprising representatives from Zayed National Museum and the Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT) - Abu Dhabi, as well as external subject matter experts, who will base decisions on criteria including the applicant’s research methodology, experience, outcomes, and relevance to the museum’s mandate.

"This initiative seeks to unlock a wealth of untold stories about our late founder Sheikh Zayed, enlightening us on the profound impact he had on our nation’s progress and development," said Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi.

"This fund reaffirms our commitment to researching and promoting UAE culture, history, and heritage by inspiring both established and junior researchers to dig deep, discover and share the UAE’s story with the world," added Dr. Peter Magee, Director of Zayed National Museum.

Construction of the museum on Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island has achieved significant milestones, including the completion of its unique wing structures.

The distinctive atria are designed to represent the wings of a falcon, a symbol of the UAE’s national heritage – indicative of the way UAE culture and heritage is interwoven into the essence of the museum.