Publication grant

Application deadline: June 22nd, 2025

FIKAR invites applications for its Publication Grant, which supports the creation and dissemination of innovative and original publications related to Failaka Island. The grant aims to promote public knowledge of the island and extend its cultural and historical narratives to both Kuwaiti and international audiences.

The grant supports the production of publications that explore, reflect on, or are inspired by Failaka Island. Eligible genres include:

  • Fiction

  • Non-fiction

  • Research-based works

  • Artistic publications

  • Children’s and young adult literature

  • Poetry

    The final publication must be completed in either Arabic or English.

About the grant

Grant amount

The maximum amount awarded is 3,000 KWD.

Funding may cover partial or full costs of the publication, depending on the approved budget. Eligible expenses include:

  • Printing and binding

  • Design and layout

  • Licensing of images and copyright fees

  • Graphic design

  • Indexing

  • Production costs

  • Commissioning of new photography

  • Editorial and proofreading services

Grants will not be awarded for publications that have already been completed or published.

Timeline

The entire publication project must be completed within two years from the start date of the grant. Applicants are required to outline a realistic and achievable timeline within this timeframe.

Terms

The proposed publication must clearly relate to Failaka Island. Applications not fulfilling this requirement will be automatically disqualified.

Criteria

This call is open to Kuwaiti and international applicants aged 21 or older who meet the following conditions:

1

This grant is open to visual artists and researchers with a minimum of five years of professional experience in their respective fields. Applicants may apply individually or collaboratively.

2

Are eligible to obtain a visa to Kuwait

(details available here)

3

Propose a project that directly relates to Failaka Island.

Application Requirements

All applicants must submit:

1 - A clear project proposal outlining objectives, methodology, and potential outcomes or public engagement.

2 - A biography of the applicant(s).

3 - A list of publications

4 - A detailed budget indicating the requested amount and proposed allocation of funds.

5 - At least one letter of recommendation supporting the candidate(s) and project proposal (up to a maximum of three letters).

6 - Indication of preferred dates for the residency period between October 1, 2025 and May 1, 2026

Important dates

Application Deadline: June 22, 2025, by 11:59 PM (Kuwait time)
Pre-Selection Interviews: End of June 2025
Final Notification of Results: First week of July 2025
Residency Period Begins: October 1, 2025
Residency Period Ends: May 1, 2026

Residency Support

Residents will receive the following:

  • Round-trip boat transport between Kuwait

  • and Failaka Island

  • Accommodation at Dar FIKAR

  • Dedicated studio space

  • Two meals per day

  • Access to all residency facilities

  • Ongoing mentorship and support from the FIKAR team

Please note: International travel to and from Kuwait is not covered by FIKAR. Applicants are encouraged to seek additional funding from third-party sources for flights and related costs.

Grant Support

In addition, grantees will receive a production grant of up to 3,000 KWD, depending on the scope and budget of the proposed project.

All funded projects must be completed within two years from the start date of the grant.