MBRF to launch first phase of Dubai International Program for Writing in September

Dubai, UAE, Aug 24, 2014: Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation (MBRF), a leading establishment that seeks to spread knowledge and support literary initiatives in the Arab world, has announced it will launch the first phase of the Dubai International Program for Writing (DIPW) with a workshop on creative writing in September.
The Dubai International Program for Writing, aimed at encouraging young Emirati and Arab writers, will organize the workshop under the supervision of Lebanese novelist Najwa Barakat, who will offer creative writing skills to selected candidates in the field of novel writing. In the first stage of the selection process for the workshop, a selection committee will choose 6 to 10 candidates. Entry of the candidates to the DIPW training program will be based on their final evaluation by novelist Barakat.

The MBRF recently organized an orientation session under the DIPW for 15 candidates in the field of novel writing. The session included discussions on the program in general, the conditions for participation and the selection mechanism.  
His Excellency Jamal Bin Huwaireb, Managing Director of MBRF, said: “The launch of the Dubai International Program for Writing is a major step in the efforts of Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Foundation to empower young Emirati and Arab talents by supporting them in the field of writing and helping them publish their works. The program also reflects our commitment and consistent efforts to promote the dissemination of knowledge in the Arab societies.”
H.E. Bin Huwaireb added: “The Foundation will form partnerships with leading literary figures and local experts to train candidates under the Dubai International Program for Writing. Trainers will be allocated in various fields of writing, including literature, science and research, with the duration of each training program not exceeding 10 months and not less than 6 months.”

Aiming to elevate the literary standards of society, the Dubai International Program for Writing will be rolled out in three phases. The first phase aims to empower 100 young Emirati writers with enhanced writing skills, while the second phase will engage young Arab authors who currently reside in the UAE. The third phase will address authors from across the wider Arab region.

After the completion of the training period, MBRF will print the books associated with the program. It will also oversee the editing, artwork and design of book covers, following which a certified company will undertake the distribution of the work.

The DIPW represents a key part of the activities and initiatives launched by the MBRF to enhance the capability of the intellectual and literary community. The program also supports national publishing houses which contribute to the enrichment of the cultural movement and intellectual activities in the UAE and the Arab world.
Those wishing to participate in the DIPW should send their bio-data and specimen of their written work or research studies to email DIPW@mbrf.ae. The specimens will be assessed by a committee composed of experts in the areas of writing and publishing, primarily based on the criteria of talent and language skills.