Zayed University and Dubai Culture Celebrate First Cohort of Museum Management Program

Education

Zayed University and Dubai Culture Celebrate First Cohort of Museum Management Program

Zayed University and Dubai Culture and Arts Authority have marked a key milestone with the graduation of the inaugural cohort of the Museum Management & Curatorial Studies Program, a pioneering initiative aimed at developing future Emirati leaders in the cultural sector.

The event, held at the university’s Innovation Center in Dubai, brought together senior officials, faculty, and students to celebrate the programme’s first graduates. Among those in attendance were Hala Badri, Kevin Hall, and Muna Faisal Al Gurg.

Building Future Cultural Leaders

The programme was jointly developed by Zayed University’s Professional and Continuing Education (PaCE) division and the College of Arts and Creative Enterprises, in partnership with Dubai Culture. It aims to equip students with academic knowledge, curatorial expertise, and hands-on experience needed to lead museums and cultural institutions in line with the UAE’s long-term cultural vision.

Participants completed a multi-phase learning journey, including advanced academic modules, a 16-week internship within Dubai Culture museums, and an additional 12 weeks of practical engagement across cultural events and operations. The programme concluded with final project presentations evaluated by industry experts.

Strengthening the Cultural Economy

Officials highlighted the programme’s role in supporting the UAE’s creative economy and strengthening national identity through heritage preservation. The initiative also creates direct career pathways, with several graduates expected to transition into roles within Dubai Culture.

Speaking at the event, Kevin Hall emphasized the importance of bridging academic learning with real-world experience, while Muna Faisal Al Gurg noted that developing specialised talent is critical to enhancing museum experiences and positioning them as dynamic cultural destinations.

A Strategic Vision for Growth

The programme reflects a broader commitment to nurturing homegrown talent capable of shaping the UAE’s cultural landscape. It also builds on the legacy of Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, an alumna of Zayed University and Chairperson of Dubai Culture.

Following the success of its first cohort, both institutions are now exploring the launch of a second intake and the potential expansion of their collaboration through a long-term strategic framework.

The event concluded with a certificate ceremony and networking session, reinforcing the programme’s role in connecting emerging talent with industry leaders.