Dubai Culture has opened the Stories of Wulfa competition, offering AED 2 million to develop and produce one animated series inspired by Emirati culture, values and traditions. Applications are open until 15 November 2026.
Stories of Wulfa will fund 15 animated episodes
The winning proposal will become a 15-episode series, with each episode running for approximately 20 minutes. Dubai Culture says the project should reflect Emirati heritage and values including belonging and family connection, while remaining suitable for different segments of society.
The authority is accepting concepts from artists, writers, illustrators, directors, designers, filmmakers, animation studios, production companies, and local, regional and international creative teams. Proposals must set out the series concept, target audience, educational and cultural value, visual direction, character development, episode synopses, a complete script for the first episode, and animation samples.
The official criteria include storytelling quality, cultural authenticity and originality, visual direction, character development, production readiness, and broadcast potential. Possible themes listed by Dubai Culture include family relationships, hospitality traditions, Hag Al Laila, Ramadan, Eid, majlises, folk tales, games and historical figures.
“Investing in original content is a fundamental pillar in advancing the cultural and creative industries and a key driver for the growth of the animation sector.”
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture
How to apply for the Stories of Wulfa competition
Applications opened on 7 September and close on 15 November 2026. Creators can read the official competition details on Dubai Culture’s website, review the FAQ document, and submit the registration form.
The competition is part of the Season of Wulfa. The AED 2 million award covers the winning project’s development, production and presentation.
The announcement was also reported by WAM, which said the initiative is intended to support original visual content and strengthen local cultural identity. For more regional animation coverage, see our report on Sharjah’s animation and comics conference.
How much funding does the Stories of Wulfa winner receive?
The winning project receives AED 2 million for development, production and presentation as part of the Season of Wulfa.
How many episodes will the Stories of Wulfa series have?
The proposed animated series will have 15 episodes, each approximately 20 minutes long.
What must applicants submit?
Applicants must provide a series concept, target audience, cultural and educational value, creative vision, character development, episode synopses, a complete first-episode script and animation samples.
