Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press (Doha, Qatar) has partnered with Art Omi (NY, USA) to sponsor one aspiring Arabic writer to participate in the 2020 Art Omi Writers’ Residency Program.

This annual residency provides writers with the space and time away from daily pressures to create, and to bring experts in the field to dialogue with the residents.

Daytime is reserved for writing and quiet activities, while evenings are more communal. Noted editors, agents and book scouts are invited to share dinner and conversation on both creative and practical subjects, offering insight into the workings of the publishing industry, and introductions to some of its key professionals.

The retreat is held over four weeks in either the spring or fall seasons at the Art Omi residences located in Ghent, New York on 300 acres of rolling farmland with spectacular views of the Catskills and the Hudson River Valley. 

The program’s international emphasis provides exposure for global literary voices and reflects the spirit of cultural exchange that is essential to both HBKU Press’s and Art Omi’s mission.

For more details and to apply for the residency, please download and complete the application package below and send it to hbkupcomms@hbku.edu.qa. The deadline for the application is 30 September 2019.

General Information: 

• This opportunity is open to all writers, though preference is given to mid-career writers.
• Applicants must have an intermediate grasp of the English language as the residency and its workshops are all in English.
• Applicants must agree to all terms and conditions set forth below. 
• Application, Statement of Purpose (1000 words), and CV to be submitted in English; Writing Sample (5000 words) can be in Arabic.
• Only completed applications emailed to hbkupcomms@hbku.edu.qa on or before 30 September 2019 will be considered.
• Shortlist of finalists will be announced on 15 October 2019, and one finalist will be announced on 25 November 2019.

To download the application form, click here.