Today's Edition
ABU DHABI (ALETIHAD)
Zayed National Museum, the national museum of the UAE, is launching the country’s first part-time Associate Conservator Diploma, delivered in partnership with West Dean College of Arts, Design, Craft and Conservation in the UK, and supported by the Mubadala Foundation.
The diploma responds to a growing need within the UAE for conservation expertise, and will equip current and future conservators with the skills to apply professional standards, ensure the ethical care of objects in line with national and international conservation frameworks, and address key environmental factors impacting heritage collections.
Dr. Peter Magee, Director of Zayed National Museum, said: “Supporting the preservation and understanding of the UAE’s heritage lies at the heart of Zayed National Museum’s mission. In partnership with West Dean College and with the support of the Mubadala Foundation, this diploma programme reflects our commitment to contributing to the development of conservation expertise within the cultural sector and creating opportunities for emerging and established professionals to further their practice.
“Bringing together academic learning and practical experience, the qualification will enable participants to deepen their knowledge while contributing to the long-term care of heritage collections across the UAE.”
Alya Al Hosani, Executive Director – Community Affairs at Mubadala, said: “This diploma represents an important step in developing specialised skills within the cultural sector. Through our commitment to education and enablement, we support initiatives that build local capabilities and strengthen a sustainable ecosystem.
"This diploma directly contributes to empowering talent to lead the preservation and stewardship of the UAE’s heritage, while creating meaningful and lasting impact for the wider community.”
The Associate Conservator Diploma programme was designed using collaborative and interdisciplinary learning approaches to balance scientific and contextual theory with practical workshops. It is open to applicants with a background in heritage, archaeology, conservation, or related disciplines, as well as professionals currently working in the cultural sector.
Participants who successfully complete the diploma will receive a West Dean College Associate Conservator certificate, supporting progression into further academic study or professional practice in conservation.
Delivered as a hybrid format, the programme combines in-person teaching at Zayed National Museum, online self-directed study, and a four-week work placement across UAE cultural institutions.
Year 1 of the programme will run from August to January 2027, with in-person teaching delivered across three intensive blocks; Block 1 from 31 August to 18 September 2026; Block 2 from 26 October to 13 November 2026; and Block 3 from 11 January to 22 January 2027
Professor Laura Peters, Vice-Principal at West Dean College, said: “This diploma has been designed to provide participants with both the technical skills and critical understanding required to support the care and conservation of heritage collections.
“I wish to congratulate the teams at Zayed National Museum and West Dean for making this new venture possible and look forward to welcoming students and professionals to study and develop their practice.”
This initiative reflects Zayed National Museum’s role in strengthening conservation expertise within the UAE, supporting the long-term preservation and study of the nation’s heritage through a programme grounded in local context and aligned with international standards.
Recruitment is open until June 2026.
As places are limited, early registration is encouraged.
