The Zayed National Museum has opened applications for its 2026 Research Fund.
The AED1 million fund aims to back research that deepens knowledge of the UAE’s heritage and the wider region. Launched four years ago, the programme supports both large and small grants, targeting seasoned scholars and early‑career researchers alike.
Funding details and eligibility
Grants range from modest awards for emerging academics to larger sums for established projects. Applicants must propose work that aligns with the museum’s mandate to preserve, advance and share understanding of Emirati history and culture. A review panel composed of museum representatives, officials from the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and external subject‑matter experts will assess proposals against criteria such as methodology, experience and expected outcomes.
Now in its fourth year, the Zayed National Museum Research Fund continues to attract leading researchers from across the globe, each contributing a distinct perspective to our understanding of the UAE’s heritage, Emirati cultural identity and the remarkable story of this land.
— Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary, Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi
Research focus and past projects
The fund’s key themes include the life and achievements of the Founding Father, the late Sheikh Zayed, and broader investigations into the region’s archaeological and intangible heritage. Recent museum‑led work, such as the Magan Boat project – a reconstruction of a Bronze Age vessel based on a cuneiform tablet – showcases the depth of inquiry the fund encourages.
As a research institution, Zayed National Museum's internally led programme spans archaeology, conservation science, oral history and intangible heritage, supported by specialised in-house facilities including conservation laboratories, a digitalisation studio and multispectral imaging technology.
— Dr Peter Magee, Director, Zayed National Museum
By inviting scholars worldwide, the Research Fund seeks to expand the museum’s role as a hub for cultural scholarship and international collaboration. Successful projects will add to a growing body of knowledge that informs future generations and keeps the UAE’s heritage vibrant and relevant.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Zayed National Museum Research Fund?
The Zayed National Museum Research Fund is a programme that provides AED1 million in funding to support research on the UAE's heritage, culture, and the broader region.
How much funding is available through the Zayed National Museum Research Fund?
The Zayed National Museum Research Fund provides up to AED1 million in funding to support research projects on the UAE's heritage and cultural legacy.
What types of research projects are eligible for funding?
The Zayed National Museum Research Fund supports research projects that align with the museum's mandate to preserve, advance, and share understanding of Emirati history and culture.
Who is eligible to apply for funding?
Both seasoned scholars and early-career researchers are eligible to apply for funding through the Zayed National Museum Research Fund.
