Communities of Creativity: Mawaheb (Dubai, UAE) 🇦🇪

A Studio Rooted in Meaning

Mawaheb—Arabic for “talents”—is a community art studio in Dubai dedicated to nurturing the artistic voices of adults with disabilities. Known in the UAE as people of determination, these individuals are given the space, tools, and support to express themselves creatively and grow in confidence.

Art as Structure and Self-Discovery

At Mawaheb, the studio day begins with stretching and mindfulness exercises. This daily rhythm—centered on wellness and focus—sets the tone for immersive artmaking in various media, including painting, mosaic, and design. Staff and volunteers act as facilitators, helping artists pursue their ideas while fostering independence and skill development.

Creativity in Context

Located in Dubai’s Al Quoz creative zone, Mawaheb is situated in the heart of the city’s contemporary art district. This proximity isn’t just geographic—it’s symbolic. Mawaheb artists are not secluded; they are contributors to the cultural life of their city. Exhibitions, pop-up shows, and collaborations highlight their work and invite the broader public to witness the value of inclusive creative expression.

A Broader Mission

Mawaheb is more than an art studio—it’s a space of personal development and societal change. The program includes vocational skill-building and community engagement activities, supporting artists as they grow into confident adults who can live with dignity and agency. In a region where adult disability services are still evolving, Mawaheb stands out as a pioneering model.

Supporting the Artist, Not Just the Art

What defines a supported studio is not just what’s made—but how it’s made, and who is seen in the making. Mawaheb artists are not just making art; they are being artists. That distinction matters. Facilitators here don’t direct from the front—they walk beside each individual, honoring the unique pace, style, and story that each artist brings to the studio.

To learn more about Mawaheb or see the artists’ work:

🌐 mawaheb-dubai.com📸

@mawahebdubai on social media