Antonia leads the Art Jameel teams in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, and oversees programmes across the arts, heritage and education. She joined in 2016 with a mandate to develop the Jameel Arts Centre, Dubai, and Hayy: Creative Hub, Jeddah, and institute a new period of radical growth for the organisation. Among other roles, Antonia was previously Director of Art Dubai (2010-2016); Projects Director at Bidoun; and has written extensively on Middle Eastern art and film.
I’m the curator of the Youth Assembly programme at Art Jameel, where I work across Learning, Exhibitions and Programming to shape projects that centre youth communities, collaboration and research. A big part of my work is creating space for emerging voices and more experimental ways of sharing knowledge. What I really value is the team, everyone is open, supportive and genuinely collaborative, so tackling challenges always feels like a shared effort. My interest in this field started with theatre design, where I became fascinated by how stories come together through space, light and sound. That curiosity eventually led me to an internship at Jameel Arts Centre in 2019. One of the most rewarding parts of my role is supporting young creatives and seeing projects come to life and how people respond to them. Outside of work, I love reading, walking and solo travelling, and I’m a big Formula 1 fan.
I provide technical assistance to members of staff, supporting research, implementation, and the maintenance of Art Jameel’s technology infrastructure. This role allows me to work within a creative ecosystem made up of people from diverse backgrounds, which I find both engaging and rewarding. I am particularly interested in learning more about how things work, while continuously building my capacity for problem-solving. I would describe myself as passionately curious, always keen to understand systems more deeply and improve how I approach challenges. One of my key projects was the Art Jameel Shop website redesign and migration, which gave me valuable hands-on experience. Outside of work, I enjoy playing bass guitar, reading non-fiction, jogging, and going on road trips and hikes. I also used to play hockey and rugby, which continues to influence my sense of teamwork and collaboration.
I oversee the Library, focusing on Library Programming, Research Commissions, and growing the Library’s collection of resources. I enjoy working across different teams to produce outcomes that would not be possible without collaboration, and I value learning from colleagues who specialise in their own fields. As a member of the Library team, I find it very fulfilling to access, develop and expand the Library’s resources. I am interested in storytelling and illustration. While freelancing, I became involved in education-oriented roles and projects, including working as an adjunct instructor at university level and designing educational printed matter with various art institutions. Working in a library like Jameel Library allows me to continue exploring and developing these interests in practice. I also enjoy contributing to a consistent research commission cycle and enabling researchers to rely on a structured institutional framework. Outside of work, I pursue freelance illustration and cartooning projects. I have a lifelong fascination with mermaids.
Brent studied Information Technology and Information Systems at Brigham Young University - Hawaii. He has a passion for assisting people (and artists!) with technology, and also delves into photography and graphic design. He comes to Jameel Arts Centre having pioneered an art prize and other programmes for emerging artists in Oman.
As the Facilities Manager of a contemporary museum, I am responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and uninterrupted operation of the facility, overseeing building operations including MEP systems, security, housekeeping, and maintenance, while supporting the operational needs of exhibitions, public programmes, and events. I manage vendor performance, statutory compliance, and authority approvals, ensuring the Centre meets all regulatory, safety, and environmental standards, and I take pride in improving compliance through initiatives such as coordinating SIRA and DCD Hassantuk certification and subscriptions to strengthen safety frameworks. I enjoy being part of a space that supports artists, engages the community, and brings ideas to life, and I was drawn to Facilities Management through an interest in combining technical problem-solving with operational leadership. Outside work, I enjoy time with my family, watching Netflix and discovery channels, and I’ve always been curious about how things work.
I support the research, programming, and administration of the collection. I primarily lead research on collection artists and artworks, and collaborate on developing collection-related public programming. I also contribute to the delivery of collection-focused exhibitions, such as Artists’ Rooms, and support overall collection administration. I greatly appreciate Art Jameel’s commitment to widening access to the arts through free exhibitions and public programming; it is rewarding to see diverse audiences connect with our work. I also value being part of a dedicated team passionate about contributing to and safeguarding the arts. During my History of Art studies, museum collections inspired me deeply—not just for academic work, but as sources of awe and wonder. I am proud to help share human creativity with audiences and preserve it for future generations.I am especially proud of piloting the 2024 ‘Artists on Artists’ series, pairing collection artists with UAE-based artists in conversation. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, K-dramas, gaming, and cinema, and I also have a strong passion for theatre.
I oversee design across Art Jameel, working across Jameel Arts Centre and Hayy Jameel, where I develop visual identities, exhibition graphics, wayfinding systems, and publications, ensuring consistency and quality across outputs while collaborating with external designers and partners and helping build more structured internal design processes. I enjoy being part of an environment that supports experimentation and cultural dialogue, where design shapes culture and storytelling, and I value contributing to systems and frameworks that strengthen how design functions within the institution. My practice is rooted in research, storytelling, and problem-solving, which led me to exhibition design focused on language, typography, and spatial meaning, and I’m proud of establishing the in-house design function at Art Jameel to create a more cohesive approach. Outside work, I design typefaces, have a growing interest in Arabic calligraphy and contemporary type design, and I also have different coloured eyelashes.
I’m the Global Retail Manager for Art Jameel, leading retail operations across all shops to ensure our offer reflects the organisation’s mission and remains sustainable. I oversee product selection, pricing, discounts, and relationships with artists, designers, vendors, and partner organisations. I enjoy being part of an organisation committed to art, learning, and community, and I value collaborating with diverse colleagues and creatives while seeing how retail supports artists and audiences in a tangible way, alongside the trust and autonomy to grow, experiment, and improve how we work. I was drawn to this career because I’ve always been interested in how art, design, and everyday objects tell stories and connect people, and I wanted a role combining creativity, business thinking, and collaboration, which I’ve found here. One achievement I’m proud of is helping strengthen and streamline Art Jameel Shop, now recognised across the region. Outside work, I enjoy exploring art and design stores, travelling, spending time with friends and family, and dancing, which helps me relax and often surprises people.
As a Library Operations Assistant, my primary focus is the seamless operation of the library facility. My responsibilities include overseeing day-to-day activities, ensuring a welcoming environment for all visitors, and guiding them through the collections. I also handle key administrative tasks such as data entry, cataloguing, and supporting the library’s operational needs. What I value most about my role at Art Jameel are the daily learning opportunities, along with the supportive and inclusive team culture. My initial volunteering experience with CCD showed me the creative and freeing nature of a career centred around service and culture. With a lifelong connection to the arts, I was inspired to pursue a path aligned with my passions. I am proud of earning the appreciation of my colleagues, as well as relocating from Colombia and securing my first international role at a major institution. Outside work, I enjoy travelling, dancing, visiting the beach, spending time with loved ones, and exploring the city’s food scene. I also collect pins and earrings as travel keepsakes.
As a Digital Communications Assistant, I support the streamlining of messaging for events, programmes, and exhibitions at Jameel Arts Centre, working closely with the Communications Managers. I handle front-facing content, copy, and promotions, and also liaise with exhibiting artists and community members to support the delivery of creative projects and related materials. What I enjoy most about working at Art Jameel is being surrounded by passionate and talented colleagues who genuinely believe in the impact and values of Jameel Arts Centre as a cultural force in the region. It is inspiring to be part of an organisation committed to representing regional voices and decentralising Western narratives, particularly within the Arab world. I am proud to contribute to the growth and shaping of this cultural shift. Being around creative individuals continually inspires me and strengthens my passion for supporting artists across disciplines. I also enjoy street photography, exploring different parts of the city, staying active through sports, and spending time with friends and family.
I lead the planning and delivery of exhibitions at Jameel Arts Centre, working closely with artists, curators, and institutions globally. My role covers the full project lifecycle, from concept development to installation, including budgets, loans, logistics, and the development of touring exhibitions and institutional partnerships that expand Art Jameel’s programme. What I enjoy most is the environment at the Centre - the waterfront setting, especially in winter, and working alongside a talented, young, and diverse team. I chose to work on the institutional side of the art world because I believe culture should be accessible to everyone. I see contemporary art as a public good that reflects society and shapes cultural conversation. I am especially proud of my first touring exhibition, which travelled to three countries. Managing international loans, production, and long-term partnerships was a major milestone.
I work on designing curricula and activities that inspire meaningful engagement with the arts, and I collaborate closely with schools and universities to support education in contemporary arts and culture. My work includes producing programmes, children’s activity booklets, educator resource guides, and large-scale events for schools and universities. What I enjoy most is working with the team, especially seeing how children explore and respond to the world around them through creative learning experiences. It’s always rewarding to witness their curiosity and imagination in action. One project I am especially proud of is Creative Careers Days and children’s exhibitions, which bring together learning, creativity, and participation in an engaging way. Outside of work, I enjoy cooking and making ceramics, as both allow me to be creative in different ways. A fun fact about me is that I am half Iraqi and half Kuwaiti, which has deeply influenced my perspective and connection to culture.
As a Visitor Experience Assistant, my role is to ensure visitors have a welcoming and engaging experience. I share information about current exhibitions, programmes, and facilities, answer questions, and support guided tours and public programmes. I also gather visitor feedback and insights to help improve exhibitions, programmes, and overall visitor satisfaction, as well as handle inquiries and feedback professionally. Being surrounded by a supportive and collaborative team has made my experience really enjoyable. Being in close proximity to art and meeting artists every day feels inspiring and allows me to reflect on my own creative interests. I grew up surrounded by creative family members, which nurtured my love for art and storytelling. This led me to become passionate about supporting creative communities and seeing how art brings people together and sparks dialogue. I was chosen as a Youth Ambassador to represent the UAE at Osaka EXPO. Outside of work, I enjoy board games, D&D, and exploring places through Google Maps including planning trips.
Hassan is a certified accounting professional bringing over 7 years of industry experience in Financial Management, Budgeting and Financial Reporting and a commitment to providing a variety of financial and analytical review to departments and clients.
I have a background in electrical engineering and spent many years working in AI before transitioning into the arts sector, where I now work as an Administration Coordinator. My role focuses on supporting behind-the-scenes coordination and ensuring everything runs smoothly, which is something I truly enjoy. I am very happy to be part of the Art Jameel team, as it has an beautiful work culture where management genuinely cares about and supports the team. One professional achievement I’m proud of is teaching electrical engineering courses to bachelor’s students at university. It was a meaningful experience that allowed me to share technical knowledge while helping students build confidence in a challenging subject. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time at home with my nine cats, watching true crime, and travelling. I’ve spent much of my life solo travelling, often to remote places, immersing myself in other cultures and going completely off the grid. A fun fact about me is that I’ve had the rare experience of being in close proximity to cheetahs and lions in an uncontained setting, which was surreal and unforgettable.
As Collections Manager for the Art Jameel Collection, I oversee the care, documentation, movement, and development of the collection. My role includes managing acquisitions, loans, storage, conservation planning, cataloguing, and legal and administrative processes related to artworks. I also work across departments and with external partners to ensure the collection is well cared for, accessible for research and display, and aligned with Art Jameel’s curatorial priorities. What I enjoy most is the balance between responsibility and purpose. I work across both the practical and strategic sides of collection management while contributing to a wider cultural mission. It is meaningful to support a collection that is actively cared for and used for research, exhibitions, and public learning. I was drawn to this field through an interest in how artworks are cared for and given long-term institutional life, especially at the intersection of research, stewardship, and cultural strategy. I am especially proud of improving documentation, storage, and completing a full physical check of the collection. Outside work, I enjoy exhibitions, reading, spending time with family, and creative research.
Indranjan is an Exhibitions Curator at the Jameel Arts Centre. As a curator, writer and cultural producer he often plays the role of an interlocutor with artists and creative practitioners and thinks with research based practices that are at the intersection of visual, material and performance cultures. Before joining Art Jameel, Indranjan was the Senior Curator at Khoj International Artists’ Association, New Delhi, where his curatorial research was in the realm of ecology and technology. Experiments in writing, writing in transmission, and acts of annotation are his writerly fixations. As an artist his interest is in the body as a vessel to hold memory and withhold borders. You can find him staring at the horizon, plotting strategies of worldbuilding and modes of remembering.
I am Senior Manager of People at Art Jameel, where I focus on supporting the organisation’s most important asset - its people. My role involves shaping HR frameworks, recruitment, and learning and development, with a focus on building an inclusive and supportive environment where creative teams can thrive. I am passionate about fostering diversity, equity, and a culture where people feel empowered to do their best work. What I enjoy most is the culture of curiosity and collaboration at Art Jameel. It is a place that values learning, openness, and accessibility, where both global and local perspectives come together. I value being part of an organisation that treats culture as a living ecosystem rather than a static institution. I was drawn to mission-driven work because I believe strong institutions are built on supported teams. My focus has been on improving feedback culture, encouraging ownership, and reducing operational friction. Outside work, I enjoy cooking and baking for my family and dancing as a form of creative expression and release.
As Events Manager, I manage a range of events, from in-house programmes and large-scale festivals to third-party venue hires and collaborations. My role includes overseeing logistics, liaising with vendors, and working closely with operations, security, and technical teams to ensure events run smoothly and comply with venue and safety regulations. I also support crowd management, technical setup, and post-event operations. I appreciate contributing to initiatives that create meaningful community experiences. I am driven by working in collaborative environments where I can learn from others, combine skills and knowledge to solve problems, and engage with both internal and external stakeholders. A professional achievement I am proud of is contributing to large-scale festivals and supporting increased footfall and recognition of the Centre, while also assisting in-house programming. Outside work, I enjoy Netflix or Crunchyroll, spending time with family and friends, exploring my surroundings, and I have an interest in antiques and historical objects.
I work in government-related public service, supporting administrative coordination and service delivery. My role involves handling time-sensitive tasks, assisting with events and requests, and ensuring work is completed efficiently and accurately. What I enjoy most is the flexibility of the role and the opportunity to support people through structured processes. It is meaningful to hold a position that is both respected and service-oriented. I was drawn to this career because I’ve always wanted to help others and contribute directly to public-facing work. One professional achievement I’m proud of is consistently managing multiple challenges and completing tasks before deadlines. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family. I would describe myself as straightforward, with a strong sense of responsibility, and I enjoy working with people in a positive and grounded environment.
As the Senior Manager in Finance, I manage the financial operations at Art Jameel, overseeing budgeting, reporting, and financial planning. I work closely with teams across the organisation to ensure strong financial governance and to support strategic decision-making. I appreciate being part of a mission-driven organisation where finance plays a meaningful role in enabling cultural impact. I’ve always been drawn to roles that combine analytical thinking with purpose, and finance offers the right balance of structure, strategy, and problem-solving. One professional achievement I’m proud of is leading the implementation of improved financial processes that increased efficiency and transparency across departments, including introducing budgeting tools that helped teams manage their resources more effectively. I enjoy reading, gardening, and discovering new food ideas and menus online. I love singing, but the universe gently suggested I keep my day job.
As a Retail Assistant at Art Jameel, I’m usually the first person visitors meet when they enter the shop. I welcome guests, help them find products, and share information about the artists, brands, publications, exhibitions, and events at Jameel Arts Centre. I also support the day-to-day running of the shop, including merchandising, sales, inventory, and managing the shop’s social media. What I enjoy most is meeting Art Jameel’s diverse community - students, families, artists, and visitors - and helping them connect with art and creative products in the shop. It also allows me to work closely with a supportive team, learn from each other, and build a collaborative environment. I’ve always enjoyed working with people in creative spaces, which led me to retail in the arts. One achievement I’m proud of is consistently delivering strong customer service while supporting smooth shop operations. Outside of work, I enjoy sports, dance, training, and reading science fiction and self-development books. A fun fact about me is that I used to be a national table tennis player.
I am a Senior Curator at Art Jameel, and my work engages with animals, infrastructure, cities, and the politics of emotions. I develop curatorial projects that explore how social and environmental systems shape everyday life and artistic practice. Before joining Art Jameel, I was a curator at Bétonsalon — Centre for Art and Research in Paris, and I also worked at the Sursock Museum in Beirut, where I contributed to exhibitions and research-led programming. I hold degrees from Sciences Po Paris and Paris-Sorbonne University in Philosophy and Social Sciences, which continue to inform my interdisciplinary approach to curating. My practice is rooted in critical inquiry and an ongoing interest in how institutions, spaces, and narratives intersect and evolve. Outside of work, I enjoy books, cats, and public transportation systems, which reflect my curiosity about structure, movement, and the rhythms of everyday urban life.
As a Visitor Experience Assistant at Jameel Arts Centre, I act as a primary guide for the community, leading tours of the Centre and current exhibitions while facilitating creative workshops and public programmes. My role includes supporting visitor engagement and shaping a welcoming experience for every guest. I am energised by the creative process and enjoy working in an open environment where ideas are developed and brought to life through public programmes. I was drawn to this path by a lifelong passion for the arts and the evolving nature of creative spaces. I am particularly proud of leading a specialised training programme in Qatar for Visit Qatar, where I trained teams on international tourism standards and inclusive visitor engagement, including accessibility for People of Determination. Outside of work, I enjoy quiet beach mornings in summer and exploring parks across the Emirates in winter, and I collect sketchbooks I never sketch in.
As a Retail Coordinator, I support smooth retail operations through effective inventory management, team coordination, and supplier communication to ensure seamless processes and strong customer experiences. I enjoy working in a positive and collaborative environment, especially within a creative space where we deliver meaningful and engaging retail experiences. My interest in operations and teamwork inspired me to pursue this path, and I find fulfilment in roles where I can organise, coordinate, and enhance overall customer experience. I am particularly proud of managing a pop-up store where operations ran smoothly from inventory management to team coordination, successfully surpassing sales targets while maintaining excellent customer service. Outside of work, I enjoy relaxing at home while listening to music, trying out new activities, and spending time with friends. A fun fact about me is that I am a big fan of unwinding at home with music after a busy day.
As part of the Facilities team, I oversee the daily operations and maintenance of building MEP systems and infrastructure, including preventive and corrective maintenance, contractor coordination, and HSE compliance. I also support exhibitions and events with technical requirements and coordinate between internal teams and vendors to ensure a safe and efficient environment for staff and visitors. I enjoy working at Art Jameel because of its dynamic cultural environment, where facilities support exhibitions, programmes, and events. I was drawn to Facilities Management through my interest in engineering and problem-solving, combining technical expertise with practical solutions for safe, functional spaces. I am particularly proud of managing the setup and operations of high-profile events while maintaining compliance and optimizing costs. Outside work, I enjoy time with family and friends, sports and fitness, and unwinding with Instagram reels and occasional dancing at home.
I support teams across the organisation by managing end-to-end travel bookings for guests and staff, including reviewing requests, coordinating itineraries, and confirming flights and accommodation to ensure accurate and timely logistics aligned with programme needs. I also support travel-related payments and operational expenses, working closely with Finance to ensure documentation is complete, compliant, and properly recorded, alongside broader administrative and office management tasks such as publications inventory and day-to-day operational support. I enjoy the collaborative, mission-driven environment at Art Jameel and being part of its daily operations, where my work helps enable programmes that support artists, partners, and communities. Being close to programme delivery motivates me to manage logistics with care, knowing they directly contribute to their success, and this balance of structure, service, and purpose continues to inspire my career path. Outside work, I enjoy spending time at home, doing small interior projects, being with my cat and dog, and I also enjoy solo videoke sessions and am currently learning drums.
My focus is on developing and implementing strategies that strengthen Art Jameel’s impact across the creative industries and philanthropic initiatives. My work spans organisational planning, audience engagement, and strategic partnerships, and I also support advisory projects with cultural and public sector partners, translating creative ambitions into actionable frameworks. My background is in architecture, which shaped my interest in how ideas translate into real-world experiences and broader cultural impact. I’ve contributed to the growth of Art Jameel, including the strategic planning and inauguration of Jameel Arts Centre in Dubai and Hayy Jameel in Jeddah, and initiated the Jameel Assembly programme, now a flagship platform bringing together cultural practitioners and thinkers. Outside work, I explore interests across design, technology, and the humanities, with a particular appreciation for architecture, product design, travel, and coffee culture.
As Art Jameel's Logistics and Administration Coordinator, Naseef works closely with the Collections and Exhibitions departments, liaising with partners and suppliers to provide creative and efficient solutions for the movement of artwork in and out of Jameel Arts Centre. Naseef has over 12 years of experience in land, sea, and air shipping and logistics for large-scale events and fairs.
As Procurement Coordinator at Art Jameel LLC, I manage end-to-end purchasing and payment workflows supporting exhibitions, programmes, operations, and retail, including processing procurement requests, quotations, invoices, and purchase orders, coordinating with vendors, and ensuring all documentation is complete, compliant, and aligned with budgets and approvals before payment release, while also monitoring workflows to prioritise urgent items, follow up on approvals, and flag risks or delays. I enjoy the hybrid, mission-driven environment at Art Jameel, where procurement directly enables cultural and community programmes and the variety of requests across departments keeps the role dynamic. I was drawn to procurement because it connects operations, finance, and delivery through structured, problem-solving processes. I am proud of helping streamline procurement workflows by improving tracking systems, clearing backlogs, and strengthening documentation consistency. Outside work, I enjoy family time, sports, reading, exploring the city, and organising trips and gatherings.
As part of the Visitor Experience team at Art Jameel, I engage with visitors by introducing them to exhibitions, programmes, and initiatives while creating meaningful and accessible experiences through tours and conversations. With a background in psychology and a curiosity about how people think, behave, and interpret the world around them, I’m especially interested in the connections between ideas and creative expression, as well as fostering inclusive spaces where diverse voices are recognised. I enjoy working within collaborative environments where art and community intersect, where I’m able to make a meaningful social impact. Professionally, I take pride in my commitment to continuous learning, self-development, and stepping into opportunities where I can take initiative and implement ideas. Outside of work, I’m drawn to the quiet experiences - from road trips, mountains, and secluded villages to exploring art and history museums and researching cultures, traditions, and their evolution over time. I’m have a general love for science, but I enjoy creating lino prints.
Nora manages the exhibitions programme at the Jameel Arts Centre, and contributes to curatorial thinking across the board. Previous roles include heading up programmes at the Sursock Museum, Beirut, and curating public programmes at Tate, London. She has an MA in Anthropology and Cultural Politics from Goldsmiths College, London, where she also designed and taught the MA course ‘Critical Pedagogy in Contested Space’ at the Centre for Arts and Learning.
I curate and manage public programmes, grants, and collaborations, working closely with artists, researchers, and partner institutions across the region and beyond. I value the team culture at Art Jameel, which is built on trust and highly capable colleagues, and I find the work continually engaging as each exhibition and programme opens new perspectives. Working closely with artists allows for an intimate understanding of their practice, where accumulated knowledge is shared, absorbed, and renewed across projects. I came into this field after a major shift from a medical background, though I have always been drawn to writing and cultural work, and growing up in Sudan, where music, poetry, and art are part of everyday life, deeply shaped this path, especially through witnessing how art responds to political and historical change and contributes to world-building. I am especially proud of designing and delivering symposia that translate artists’ practices for broader audiences. I am also part of an interdisciplinary collective focused on Sudanese cultural production, and outside work I enjoy playlist-making, DJing, poetry, and being outdoors.
Rita welcomes the Jameel Arts Centre’s many visitors daily as part of her role as Visitor Experience Coordinator. Rita has a background in hospitality and guest services, which she draws on into her undisputed love for all things arts and culture
I oversee content, shape messaging, and develop strategies for public-facing materials, ensuring coherence, editorial consistency, and alignment with institutional direction, while also contributing to the establishment of Art Jameel’s independent publishing arm. I enjoy the depth of critical engagement across subjects and translating institutional ideas into accessible formats for wider audiences, as well as editing, writing, and collaborating with colleagues through reviewing ideas, proposals, and collective brainstorming. My background is in writing and publications, and I am drawn to the process of reifying ideas, working with language, and theorising. I also enjoy devising strategies for working with partners and leveraging networks. I identify as an artist, writer, and publisher, and outside of work I am always online - if you text me, I will respond.
I lead the spatial and production dimensions of Art Jameel’s exhibition programme, from early concept development through fabrication and installation. I see the built environment of an exhibition not as a neutral container, but as an active layer of meaning that shapes how work is read and experienced. I work closely with artists on commissioned and site-responsive projects, collaborating across curatorial, operations, and design teams to keep spatial decisions aligned with the programme’s intellectual ambitions. My path is driven by an interest in how space holds or erases memory, beginning with research into Syrian displacement and historical craft lineages, and later developing through work at Studio Italo Rota, Fondazione Prada, and the Diriyah Biennale. I’m especially drawn to institutions that balance curatorial ambition with grounded context. Outside of work, I maintain a research practice exploring displaced geographies and cultural memory, and I also enjoy climbing and swimming.
As a Learning Assistant, I focus on creating personalised visitor experiences, leading engaging tours, and building lasting partnerships with schools and universities. I collaborate with the Learning team to develop workshops and programmes, exploring creative and meaningful ways to engage and connect with communities. I enjoy seeing concepts unfold into public experiences, and how ideas develop organically when there is a thoughtful balance between creativity and structure. My path into this role emerged from working between creative exploration and academic frameworks, which naturally led me toward learning-focused practice that uses the arts to explore critical concepts. One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is seeing children not only participate in activities, but truly understand the ideas behind them and find a sense of accomplishment in the process. Outside work, I enjoy analog photography, mainly portraiture, as well as cycling, swimming, and hiking whenever there is a mountain nearby.
As part of the finance function, I manage the financial operations of the organisation, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and strong governance across all processes. My responsibilities include overseeing accounting processes, preparing financial reports, maintaining internal controls, coordinating audits, and ensuring timely month-end and year-end closing activities, as well as supporting budgeting, forecasting, and cash flow management. I enjoy working in an environment with ever-evolving operational challenges and a highly skilled team that maintains strong ethical standards. My motivation comes from a passion for governance and controls, and ensuring financial integrity within the organisation. Outside of work, I enjoy reading, economic research, and exploring the cosmos.
Sobia works behind-the-scenes on Art Jameel events, from exhibition openings to large-scale festivals, and oversees hosted events at the Jameel Arts Centre. She also nurtures new partnerships, including with the diplomatic community and cultural organisations. Sobia holds an MA in South Asia studies with a focus on contemporary Pakistan from SOAS. Sobia previously worked at Qatar Museums and Art Dubai.
As a Learning Coordinator, I plan, manage, and deliver public programmes for audiences ranging from primary school age to postgraduate level, creating resources, workshops, and large-scale events that connect the arts with learning and everyday life. I translate exhibition concepts into accessible activities and experiences for all ages, often looking at the arts through the lens of a child to make ideas more engaging and understandable. My background is in cultural programming and freelance workshop facilitation, which developed my understanding of audience engagement and led me to my role at Art Jameel’s Learning Department. Some of my most rewarding moments come from seeing regular participants return over time, especially children whose creativity grows year on year. Outside work, I spend my free time experimenting in the kitchen, particularly with baking and fermentation.
As Deputy Director and Head of Learning and Research at Art Jameel, I lead team development, arts and culture programming, strategy building, and the delivery of large-scale projects, with a focus on arts learning and fostering impactful collaborations. I enjoy working closely with colleagues and creatives in environments shaped by a belief in arts, culture, and community learning. Over the past seven years, I have been involved in the conception and realisation of both Jameel Arts Centre and Hayy Jameel, contributing to their development as well as their growing programmes and teams. I am motivated by the role arts can play in engaging communities and shaping meaningful learning experiences. Outside work, I spend time with my son, enjoy reading and hiking, and I have yet to meet someone who shares my name.
As a Senior Accountant, I ensure timely vendor and internal payments, oversee daily finance operations including accounts payable and reconciliations, monitor cash flow, verify documentation for accuracy and compliance, coordinate resolution of discrepancies, and support accurate month-end and year-end closings. I enjoy working at Art Jameel for its dynamic cultural environment and cross-functional collaboration, which enables efficient issue resolution and smooth operations. I am motivated by the opportunity to drive impact through accuracy, efficiency, and financial integrity while continuously learning and supporting organisational stability and growth. A professional achievement I am proud of is ensuring timely payables, improving efficiency, strengthening controls, ensuring compliance, and supporting accurate financial reporting while also helping the Retail Shop meet its sales targets. Outside work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, keeping my home organised, and I love collecting cute pink things.
As Enterprises Manager at Art Jameel, I oversee the strategic expansion of Art Jameel Shop globally, while also managing consultancy projects and partnership networks, including initiatives developed through Art Jameel Labs, and supporting Venue Hire and Performing Arts across Events and Public Programming. I enjoy working at the intersection of art, community, and enterprise in environments that encourage experimentation, where creative and strategic thinking come together and ideas move from concept to real-world impact through collaboration with artists, designers, and partners. My path into this role was shaped by a background in interior architecture and multidisciplinary art, which developed my interest in how spaces and narratives shape experience. I am especially proud of helping expand Art Jameel Shop into a more strategic, design-led platform and streamlining Art Jameel Labs into a more focused enterprise arm. Outside work, I am a professional musician involved in writing, producing, and performing, and I enjoy cultural spaces, contemporary art, design, travel, and getting lost in the internet.
I lead the AV implementation across exhibitions and public programmes at Jameel Arts Centre, shaping the sensory and spatial experience of artworks through projection, sound, and media systems. With a background in psychology and sound, I approach AV as a design layer that influences perception, collaborating with artists, curators, and production teams to translate concepts into cohesive installations. What I enjoy most is being in a space where diverse artistic practices come together, with openness to experimenting with AV and media and continuous development of new systems and formats. My starting point was as a musician and music producer alongside psychology, always interested in how people process sound, image, and space differently. Over time, that led me to AV work, combining both fields in a spatial way. I especially value projects that require complex technical translation while preserving artistic intent. Outside work, I play oud, experiment with sound, and spend time in nature. I think I can talk to animals, I just can’t prove it.
I support the delivery of exhibitions, commissions, and public programmes by coordinating design development and production across multiple projects, working closely with curators, artists, fabricators, and internal teams to translate curatorial concepts into spatial, technical, and material outcomes. My responsibilities include project planning, managing timelines and budgets, overseeing fabrication and installation logistics, and ensuring quality control across all stages of production, while acting as a liaison between creative and operational teams to ensure delivery in line with Art Jameel’s institutional standards. My career shifted from architecture to exhibition design through an interest in how people experience space as narrative, and over the past three years I’ve developed this practice by translating curatorial ideas into spatial experiences. I’m especially proud of delivering the Tarabot project in three months and designing Jumana Emil Aboud’s exhibition. Outside work, I make ceramics, dance, and play volleyball and badminton, and I also work on a long-term research project on empty homes in Kerala, which first brought me to Jameel through a zine workshop.
As Assistant Curator, my work spans the full arc of an exhibition: from early-stage research and artist liaison to loans coordination, wall text, installation, and catalogue production. There's a spirit of collaboration here that makes the place feel alive. Everyone brings something distinct to the table, and working alongside creative people like that is a real privilege. I've always been interested in history and politics. That led me to study art history during my undergraduate degree, which brought me into more museum and gallery spaces. It was there I became drawn to the question of framing — which histories get told, which artists get centred, by whom and how. That's what drew me into curatorial work. Whenever I produce curatorial writing that truly honours an artist's vision, when an artist feels that the text adds depth to their work and conveys what it is articulating in a different medium, that is the contribution I'm most proud of. Outside of work, I enjoy cinema, reading, and spending time with dogs. I have a sweet golden retriever called Rio.
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