Dubai is fast becoming one of the most exciting creative and cultural playgrounds for African and Caribbean talent. With its diverse population and growing appetite for global voices, the city offers a wealth of events designed to empower, elevate, and connect creatives across multiple industries.
Why Dubai stands out for creators of African and Caribbean heritage:
Here’s The Network PR’s curated guide to the UAE’s most impactful events for African and Caribbean creators that foster professional growth and creative collaborations:
SOFT Conference – Sustainability, Opportunity & Future Technology
When: 29–30 July 2025
Where: Conrad Hotel, Dubai
Why it matters: The S.O.F.T Conference which is organised by the Global Africa Forum (GAF) in partnership with the UAE Africa Networking Group and other global stakeholders, is a summit that brings together African and Middle East innovators to tackle sustainability, business growth, and future tech. African and Caribbean founders, engineers, and storytellers regularly feature in its exhibitions.
Organised by: Global Africa Forum (GAF) in partnership with the UAE Africa Networking Group
Connect: https://gaf.eki.digital/packages/
Creators HQ: “The Procreate Starter Lab”
When: August 8 2025
Where: Creators HQ, Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Why it matters: This hands-on workshop, hosted by renowned digital illustrator Nourane Owais, is ideal for illustrators, graphic designers, and visual artists. It teaches beginner-friendly Procreate skills to help artists monetise their work and build digital portfolios, especially useful for Black and diaspora creators.
Organised by: Creators HQ
Connect: creatorshq.com – Procreate Lab
Creators HQ: “How Gemini Can Power Your YouTube Content”
When: 15 August 2025
Where: Creators HQ, Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Why it matters: This workshop offers a practical guide to integrating Google Gemini AI into YouTube content planning, thumbnail design, and audience engagement. It’s ideal for YouTubers wanting to boost their strategy and workflow.
Organised by: Creators HQ
Connect: creatorshq.com – Gemini Workshop
The African Marketplace Dubai
When: 12-15 November 2025
Where: Grand Hyatt Hotel, Dubai
Why it matters: One of the UAE’s most vibrant African diaspora events. It invites diaspora consumers to shop, support, and engage with African and Caribbean creativity and culture. Creatives from across the continent use the platform to test products, build visibility, and network.
Organised by: Ibukun Awosika Leadership Academy (IALA)
Connect: The African Marketplace
AFROSOCIAL Black Professionals Networking Night - Dubai Takeover
When: November 20, 2025
Where: Nook Coworking, One JLT (Jumeirah Lake Towers)
Why it matters: AFROSOCIAL is a growing collective that curates premium networking events for black professionals to connect in the UK and now Dubai. It’s a strategic space for African and Caribbean creatives to grow their network and find collaborators as well as celebrate culture in a well curated space. Expect panel talks, cultural showcases, and business match-ups.
Organised by: AfroSocial
Connect: AFROSOCIAL
When: January 9–11, 2026
Where: Emirates Towers, Museum of the Future & DIFC
Why it matters: Touted as the world’s largest gathering for content creators and digital storytellers, this high-energy summit includes industry leaders from YouTube, TikTok, Meta, and more. African and Caribbean creators can benefit from media training, growth strategies, and exposure to global investors and sponsors. Expect workshops, growth hacks, and exposure to global brand partnerships, which is vital for African and Caribbean digital storytellers.
Organised by: UAE Government Media Office
Connect: 1billionsummit.com
Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC)
When: April 2026
Where: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC)
Why it matters: The largest pop culture convention in the region with a strong presence of indie filmmakers, illustrators, animators, and cosplay designers. African and Caribbean creatives and storytellers are increasingly represented in Artist Alley, screenings, and cosplay showcases and many more activations at this 3-day immersive experience.
Organised by: Informa Connect
Connect: mefcc.com
As the Middle East expands its cultural footprint, Dubai continues to lead with events that celebrate inclusivity, innovation, and the entrepreneurial spirit. For African and Caribbean creatives, the city is more than a destination, it’s a launchpad.
If you're an Afro-Caribbean creative creating content, coding platforms, or crafting handmade products, these events give you the stage, the skills, and the support network to grow. Attending the right events can fast-track your visibility, collaborations, and long-term success in the region.
