Dubai Culture introduces a new initiative, 'Harakat Sikka', providing complimentary animation training for ambitious apprentices
New Animation Course Launched in Dubai: "Harakat Sikka"
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has announced the launch of a new initiative, the "Harakat Sikka" animation course, as part of the Sikka Platform. This practical stop-motion animation training program aims to develop visual storytelling and animation skills among young creatives in Dubai, supporting the growth of the animation sector.
The course runs from August 18 to September 26, 2025, at House 436 in the Al Shindagha Historical Neighbourhood. It is open to UAE nationals and residents aged 18 and above, including students, artists, filmmakers, writers, and designers. No prior experience in animation is required.
The program, limited to just 10 participants, focuses on developing skills in stop-motion animation and visual storytelling. It will be guided by director-artist Boubaker Boukhari, ensuring a personalised learning experience for each participant.
The curriculum covers concept development, storyboarding, character design, visual arts, filming, editing, sound recording, and distribution strategies. The goal is for participants to create original short films, which will be showcased at the Sikka Art & Design Festival.
Interested candidates must submit short written responses explaining their motivation and interest in animation, along with a CV or creative portfolio if available. The application deadline is August 8, 2025.
This initiative reinforces Dubai Culture's commitment to building sustainable talent development platforms and strengthens Dubai's position as a global hub for creativity and culture.
Sources: - The National News, 2025-08-04 [1] - Gulf News, 2025-08-03 [2] - Dubai Culture official event page summarized in [3] - Emirates247, 2025-08-04 [4]
- This new animation course, "Harakat Sikka," not only fosters visual storytelling and animation skills within Dubai's creative community but also contributes to the city's ongoing transformation into a global hub for culture and lifestyle, as reported in news outlets like The National News and Gulf News.
- Participants of the "Harakat Sikka" animation course, an initiative by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, will not only gain practical skills in stop-motion animation and storytelling but also potentially enhance their education and self-development through the learning process and showcasing their work at the Sikka Art & Design Festival.
