SAF opens applications for 2025–2026 Residency Programme

July 31, 2025 / 7:56 PM

Kalba Ice Factory, Kalba City

Sharjah 24: Sharjah Art Foundation (SAF) has announced an open call for its 2025–2026 Residency Programme, inviting applications from visual artists, writers, poets, researchers, musicians, filmmakers, performance artists, and other creatives working in experimental and interdisciplinary practices.

The programme offers selected residents a unique opportunity to develop their work within Sharjah’s dynamic creative landscape. Participants will benefit from provided flights and transportation to Sharjah, accommodation, a monthly stipend, and full access to SAF’s extensive institutional resources and networks.

Residency locations

Bait Obaid Al Shamsi, Sharjah City
Located in the heritage Al Shuwaiheen neighbourhood, this mid-19th century creekside house has been repurposed as artist studios and exhibition spaces. With 16 rooms surrounding a central courtyard and rooftop views of the creek, it has served as a Sharjah Biennial venue since 2009.
Residency dates: November 2025 to March 2026

Kalba Ice Factory, Kalba City
A renovated 1970s brutalist structure near Kalba Creek and Al Qurm mangroves, the site offers studio space, exhibition areas, and residential accommodation within a rich natural ecosystem.
Residency dates: 17 November 2025 to 15 January 2026 and 2 February to 30 March 2026