Register Now: Al Quoz Creative 2025 Lands 26–27 Oct

Dubai Culture has opened registration for the third Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Forum (AQCEF), running 26–27 October 2025 at Al Khayat Avenue, Al Quoz. The theme is “Passion, Profit, Possibilities”—expect keynotes, panels, workshops and performances designed to turn creative work into viable business. Registration is free. There’s also a competition with AED 160,000 in prizes and seven finalists pitching on stage.

What is AQCEF 2025?

A focused, two-day forum for UAE creatives and founders to learn, network and build real opportunities.

Third edition of Dubai’s flagship creative entrepreneurship event
Dates: 26–27 October 2025
Venue: Al Khayat Avenue, Al Quoz
Theme: “Passion, Profit, Possibilities”
Free registration, open to entrepreneurs, startups, investors and aspiring professionals in CCIs
Organised by Dubai Culture & Arts Authority

AQCEF has grown into a UAE platform that brings together founders, artists, designers, chefs, cultural leaders and investors. The brief is simple: celebrate the business of creativity and map where it’s going next. This year’s theme signals a practical lens—how to turn creative passion into profit, and where the new possibilities sit across the cultural and creative industries (CCIs).

What’s on the agenda?

Talks you can use, not just panels you forget.

Keynotes, strategic panels and hands-on workshops
Creative performances that show the “business of creativity” in action
Topics include culture as capital, mentorship, placemaking and investment
Designed to equip both new and established entrepreneurs with tools and contacts

The programme leans into practical skills and real-world examples. Expect expert-led sessions, small-group workshops and performance showcases. The aim is to leave with notes you’ll actually use, plus a few new WhatsApp groups that matter. Dubai Culture frames the forum as part of a wider push to nurture talent and strengthen Dubai’s reputation as a global culture and creativity hub.

The competition: AED 160,000 on the line

Seven finalists pitch for cash plus in-kind support.

Over 120 submissions received
7 finalists shortlisted to pitch to a jury
AED 160,000 total prizes
- AED 80,000 (1st)
- AED 50,000 (2nd)
- AED 30,000 (3rd)
In-kind rewards to help develop the winning projects

The Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Competition is a pillar of the forum, giving founders a chance to stress-test ideas in front of decision-makers. The prize pot is sizeable, but the real value could be the mentorship, exposure and follow-up support bundled in the in-kind rewards. If you’re building in the CCIs, this is a shortcut to feedback and funding conversations.

Who should register?

Anyone working—or planning to work—across the cultural and creative industries.

Entrepreneurs and startups
Investors looking at CCIs
Aspiring professionals seeking an entry point
Business owners needing skills and connections
Registration is free of charge

The forum is open by design. If you’re a solo creative, a small studio, or a startup with a prototype, you’ll find sessions that fit. Established businesses can use the workshops to refine models and meet new partners. For students and career-switchers, it’s an accessible way to see where the sector’s heading.

How to attend (and plan your weekend)

Sign up now on the official event page (registration is free)
Save 26–27 October 2025 in your calendar
Bring a one-pager of your idea or portfolio for quick intros
If you’re in the competition, polish that deck and time your pitch to 5 minutes max (then practise the Q&A)

Registration is straightforward and doesn’t cost a dirham. It’s also worth planning your route to Al Khayat Avenue—sessions will likely run back-to-back, and the best networking often happens in corridors. Link to register is on Dubai Culture’s site (see below).