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About Us

1) What is ISEA?

2) When will ISEA2014 be held?

3) What is ISEA’s definition of “electronic art”?

4) Where will ISEA2014 be held?

5) How do i get involved in ISEA as an artist?

6) Applications for Artwork for ISEA2014?

7) When do I submit a paper for the symposium?

8) What are the cut off dates for the call out?

9) What is the assessment process for each application?

10) Where can i find out about other ISEAs?

11) Do I need a Visa to visit the UAE?

12) Will ISEA2014 be able to fund our project?

13) I am an artist exhibiting for the symposium; can I bring a friend/colleague to assist me with installing my piece?

14) I am interested in volunteering for ISEA2014. Do you need volunteers for ISEA2014? Do you fund volunteers from abroad?
 
15) Do I have to personally attend ISEA2014 to exhibit my work? Will installation assistance be provided?
 
16) Will installation assistance be provided?
 
17) What are the recommended hotels in the UAE?
 
18) What are the recommended airlines to reach the UAE?
 
19) When do I need to come to Dubai?
 
20) I am an independent presenter but I can’t fund my travel to Dubai; can you waive the registration fee?
 
21) What will the weather be like in November when the Symposium takes Place?

22) Do women have to cover their hair when visiting the UAE?

23) What is the most appropriate dress code in public for the UAE?

24) Is it safe for single women traveling to the UAE?

25) Are public displays of affection allowed in the UAE?

26) What happens if I am found in possession of illegal drugs?

27) Can I drive in the UAE?

28) What is the Religion in the UAE?

29) Can I practice my Religion in the UAE?

30) Can I visit a Mosque?

31) What is the local currency and it’s current value?

32) Can I use my Credit Card ort Debit Card in the UAE?

33) Do I have easy access to cash while in the UAE?

34) Are prices fixed or can I negotiate for discounts?

35) I am a vegetarian…will I be able to find food to eat?

36) What is the cost of dining out?

37) When is the Weekend in the UAE?

38) Are there restrictions on Photography in the UAE?

39) Will people speak English?

40) Are there foreign Embassies in the UAE?

1) What is ISEA?

ISEA is the International Symposium on Electronic Art – it is an annual event that moves around the world each year.
The series of symposia known as the International Symposium on Electronic Art was initiated in 1988 in order to support the founding and maintenance of an international network of organizations and individuals active in the field of the electronic arts.
This network took the shape of an association, founded in 1990 in The Netherlands, called the Inter-Society for the Electronic Arts. The Board and membership of ISEA has always been international, bringing together individuals and organizations from around the world. From the founding of ISEA until 1996, the organization was based in the Netherlands. From 1996 to 2001, ISEA headquarters was based in Montréal, Canada. In 2009 a new Headquarters was established at the University of Brighton, United Kingdom. The Inter-Society existed for over 15 years as a membership organisation and in 2009 ISEA was changed from the association to a foundation in order to better serve its mission.
The organization is now managed by the ISEA International Foundation Board, whose main role is to oversee the organization of the symposia in each selected city. It assures the continuity of symposia identity and quality, and works closely with the Host Organization. The symposia have been held as both a biennial and annual event. In 1998, the symposium returned to the biennial format for ten years. It is now held annually. ...back to top.


2) When will ISEA2014 be held?

ISEA2014 will be held for about a week and half, in mid-November 2014. ISEA2014 will open with a series of talks, exhibitions and events presented in conjunction with our partners. We will be working with a range of partners around Dubai and Abu Dhabi to ensure that there is an exciting program of workshops, residencies, exhibitions and events for ISEA2014. In addition, the first day of ISEA2014 will happen the day after Art Abu Dhabi's last event, so out-of-town visitors may wish to arrive at ISEA a few days early, in order to see Art Abu Dhabi. As soon as the exact conference dates are known, we will publish them here. ...back to top.


3) What is ISEA’s definition of “electronic art”?

ISEA International defines “electronic art” as art that cannot be created without electronic means. This includes both visual and performing arts. It means, for example, that computer software, the Internet, databases, wireless devices, electronic components or physical computing has played a role in the creation of the work. This does not mean that the work itself must include a screen, projector, embedded computer or electronic components.
As long as computer software, the Internet, databases, wireless devices, electronic components and/or physical computing has played an important role in the creation of the work, the resulting work can be in any media. ...back to top.

4) Where will ISEA2014 be held?

ISEA2014 will be held in a range of venues in and around Dubai, United Arab Emirates. This will include galleries, museums and art venues both large and small, universities and other partner institutions, as well as a range of non conventional sites and spaces for exhibitions and performances.
ISEA2014 aims to engage not merely the Dubai metro area, but other parts of the United Arab Emirates to host satellite events, residencies, and projects that will take place during or lead in and out of ISEA2014 itself. ...back to top.

5) How do i get involved in ISEA as an artist?


We are currently in the process of seeking funding that we hope will allow us to commission new works (in conjunction with various funding partners) as well as work with artists and institutions from around the world to support a range of umbrella exhibitions and independently mounted shows.
All information on ISEA2014 will be promoted through our email list, and will be widely publicised through Twitter, Facebook and through our partner networks. ...back to top.

6) Applications for Artwork for ISEA2014?

We will be accepting applications for Artwork shortly.  Please regularly check our website, Twitter, and Facebook for updates.  The final processing of submissions will be completed and all applicants will be notified by June of 2014 as to whether they will be included in the program for ISEA2014.

Applicants whose projects are dependent on funding from other sources (i.e. government, philanthropic agencies, etc.) with deadlines approaching are encouraged to request support letters from ISEA2014 (janet.bellotto@zu.ac.ae). ...back to top.


7) When do I submit a paper for the symposium?

The Call for Conference Participation for ISEA2014 is now open!
Join us for informed dialogues, dynamic debates, enlightening keynotes and experimental incursions into the extensive and diverse practice of electronic media arts.
For more information on presentation formats and themes for the Symposium please visit the Call for Participation page, and submit your proposals here. ...back to top.

8) What are the cut off dates for the call out?

The deadline for the Call for Participation for the conference is May 1, 2014. ...back to top.

9) What is the assessment process for each application?

The ISEA2014 Curatorial Committee will be shortlisting projects and successful applicants will be invited to discuss their project in more detail with the committee. ...back to top.

10) Where can i find out about other ISEAs?

ISEA2011 was held in Istanbul Turkey in September 2011 and you can visit their web site here. ISEA2012 ‘Machine Wilderness’ was held in Albuquerque, New Mexico in September 2012 — more information on their program can be found here.  ISEA 2013 was held in Sydney, Australia in June 2013, you can visit their web site here. ...back to top.

11) Do I need a Visa to visit the UAE?

Individuals from many countries are not required to get a visa prior to entering the UAE. The below list outlines the countries that do not require advanced visa arrangements. Citizens of the GCC nations of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia also do not require a visa to travel to the UAE. When you land, you will proceed to Immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30-day visit visa free of charge.
If your country doesn't appear on this list, please consult the closest UAE Embassy in your country to see if you require a visa. You will likely require a visa arranged prior to travel to the UAE.

Australia

Andorra

Austria

Brunei

Belgium

Canada

Denmark

Finland

France

Germany

Greece

Hong Kong 

Iceland

Ireland 

Italy

Japan

Liechtenstein

Luxembourg 

Malaysia

Monaco

Netherlands

New Zealand

Norway

Portugal

San Marino

Singapore

South Korea

Spain

Sweden

Switzerland

United Kingdom

United States of America

The Vatican 

How do I obtain a Visa if I am required to get one?

You can apply for a visa at your local UAE Embassy. You can also obtain a visa if you fly with the UAE Airlines: Emirates or Eithad. Some hotels when booked will also arrange the visit visa for you.

More information on obtaining a visit visa: http://www.emirates.com/english/plan_book/essential_information/visa_passport_information/uae_visas.aspx 

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12) Will ISEA2014 be able to fund our project?

ISEA2014 is limited in what it can fund for projects, however it will assist artists with local logistics. Artists will be notified in what it can support...back to top.

13) I am an artist exhibiting for the symposium; can I bring a friend/colleague to assist me with installing my piece?

Interested volunteers grouping with an artist are required to state their specific roles and duties in assisting the artist for further permission disclosing.  Please send this request toisea2014_info@zu.ac.ae

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14) I am interested in volunteering for ISEA2014. Do you need volunteers for ISEA2014? Do you fund volunteers from abroad?

Interested volunteers are welcomed to send their intentions to isea2014_info@zu.ac.ae . Unfortunately, due to limited funds we will not be able to fund the travel for volunteers. ...back to top.

15) Do I have to personally attend ISEA2014 to exhibit my work?

No. You have the option to choose having a volunteer exhibiting your project. However, a prior acknowledgment on your absence must be disclosed. Passport copy of whoever is attending on your behalf should be sent by the artists to isea2014_info@zu.ac.ae

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16) Will installation assistance be provided?

Limited installation assistance may be provided upon request. The artists is required to install his/her work. ...back to top.

17) What are the recommended hotels in the UAE?

Please refer to the Accommodation page. ...back to top.

18) What are the recommended airlines to reach the UAE?

The official UAE carriers are Emirates Airline, Etihad Airways and Fly Dubai. However we highly recommend you to check with your local travel agencies to secure the most appropriate airline for you....back to top.

19) When do I need to come to Dubai?

Depending on the complexity of your installation, you should be present 1 to 3 days prior to the opening of the exhibition. A list of dates will be sent. Please request any update from isea2014_info@zu.ac.ae

...back to top. 

20) I am an independent presenter but I can’t fund my travel to Dubai; can you waive the registration fee?

Please send any requests related to registration to isea2014_registration@zu.ac.ae

....back to top.

21) What will the weather be like in November when the Symposium takes Place?

The UAE has a sub-tropical, arid climate. Sunny blue skies and high temperatures can be expected most of the year. Rainfall is sporadic, falling mainly in winter (November to March) and averaging 12 cms per year in most of the emirate. November is one of the  most pleasant times to visit, when temperatures are around 24C (75F) during the day and 13C (56F) at night. ...back to top.

22) Do women have to cover their hair when visiting the UAE? 

Non-Muslim women are not expected to wear the Shaila (Headscarf). In fact, nobody is expected to wear the headscarf unless they wish to. ....back to top.

23) What is the most appropriate dress code in public for the UAE? 

Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year, but something slightly warmer may be needed in winter months. Take a light jacket or sweater as the air conditioning can be quite cold in public transport, hotels, malls and in all indoor venues.

Although the attitude towards dress is fairly liberal throughout the Emirates, it is important to respect local customs, especially when at public venues such as the university, shopping, sightseeing etc. Short or tight clothing may be worn, but it will attract attention - most of it unwelcomed. Dress at the university must be conservative (skirts should not be too high above the knee and shoulders should not be exposed). Nightwear at western venues can be less conservative.

Swimming attire can only be worn on beaches or at swimming pools. Topless sunbathing is not allowed.  ...back to top.

24) Is it safe for single women traveling to the UAE?

Yes, it is safe for single women to travel to the UAE. Many single women come to the UAE to visit, to live and to work. The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world. Everyone should take the same precautions that they would back home (like getting into cars with strangers, going into strangers homes etc.) ...back to top.

25) Are public displays of affection allowed in the UAE?

As in all Muslim countries, public displays of affection are considered disrespectful and may lead to a police caution or even arrest depending on its severity. ...back to top.

26) What happens if I am found in possession of illegal drugs?

The penalties for drug trafficking, smuggling and possession, of even residual amounts of illegal drugs, are severe. Do not even consider taking in small amounts of drugs even for personal medicinal use.  ...back to top.

27) Can I drive in the UAE?

If you hold a valid drivers licence you can rent a car in the UAE. This is a great opportunity to see the beautiful country and the other Emirates if you plan to stay after the conference. Please note that the driving can be erratic and fast on UAE roads, so if you are an uncomfortable driver, driving should be avoided.  ...back to top.

28) What is the Religion in the UAE? 

Islam is the official religion of the UAE, and is widely practised. The Islamic holy day is Friday. Muslims are required to pray five times a day. The times vary according to the position of the sun, when the modern day call to prayer is transmitted through loudspeakers on mosque minarets. ...back to top.

29) Can I practice my Religion in the UAE?

The UAE is tolerant of other religions with people being free to practice their religious beliefs, so long as they do not interfere with Islam. There are places of worship for other religions in the UAE. ...back to top.

30) Can I visit a Mosque? 

Non Muslims are restricted from entering mosques. Do not attempt to enter a mosque when you travel to the UAE. Non-Muslims can get an insight into Islam at the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.  It is important to cover legs, arms, and the head when visiting the mosque. They will provide a hair scarf if necessary. ....back to top.

31) What is the local currency and it’s current value?

The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED or Dhs) which is divided into 100 fils and is pegged against the US $ (US$ 1: AED 3.6725). ...back to top.

32) Can I use my Credit Card ort Debit Card in the UAE?

Most shops, hotels, restaurants accept major credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, etc.). It is prudent to confirm acceptance of credit card or debit card payments with staff especially if there is no visible signage indicating acceptance of credit card payment at the store premises or the till/counter. ...back to top.

33) Do I have easy access to cash while in the UAE?

Most ATMs across the UAE bear the Visa, MasterCard, American Express Cirrus, Maestro or Plus logos, which means credit card owners can withdraw cash against their accounts from them. There are also many foreign exchange services in hotels and malls. ....back to top.

34) Are prices fixed or can I negotiate for discounts?

When offered a price at markets – especially if the price is not listed, make sure you ask (sometimes several times) for the “best Price.” Visitors can get quoted prices almost halved with some serious negotiation at markets, carpet shops or small shops. ....back to top.

35) I am a vegetarian…will I be able to find food to eat? 

There are endless choices of dining options in the UAE with cuisines from around the world. There is something for everyone in the UAE when it comes to food. ...back to top.

36) What is the cost of dining out?

Average dining in popular hotel restaurants ranges between AED100 / US $27 to AED200 / US $55 per person, excluding beverages. Many fine dining and high-end restaurants may add a service charge (usually around 10%) and a tourism levy of 6% to your bill. These charges are often included in the menu prices and the menu will denote when they are. You may choose to reward your waiter directly with a tip – the usual 10-15%.

It is easy to find restaurants outside the glitzy hotels, where you can pay as low as AED 10/ $2-$3 US dollars for a hearty meal. ....back to top.

37) When is the Weekend in the UAE?

The Weekend in the UAE is Friday and Saturday, and the first day back to work (for most companies) is Sunday. There are, however, certain offices that remain open on Saturday too. ...back to top.

38) Are there restrictions on Photography in the UAE?

While normal tourist photography is acceptable, you should ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly women. Photographs of government buildings, military installations and ports and airports should not be taken. Also, cameras may be banned in public areas designated for women and children only. Pictures of female UAE students at the university should not be taken unless asked in advance. ...back to top.

39) Will people speak English?

Although Arabic is the official language in the UAE, English is widely spoken. Most business transactions in Abu Dhabi are conducted in English. ....back to top.

40) Are there foreign Embassies in the UAE?

The UAE’s Capital houses many foreign embassies:

Country

Telephone

+971 2

Fax

+971 2

Email address

Afghanistan

665 5560

665 5576

afgen555@emirates.net.ae

Algeria

444 8949

444 7068

emalgadhabi@hotmail.com

Argentina

443 6838

443 1392

embar@emirates.net.ae

Australia

634 6100

639 3525

info@abu-dhabi-diplo.de

Austria

676 6611

671 5551

abu-dhabi-ob@bmaa.gv.at

Azerbaijan

666 2848

666 3150

azembasy@emirates.net.ae

Bahrain

665 7500

667 4141

Bahrain1@emirates.net.ae

Bangaladesh

446 5100

446 4733

banglaad@emirates.net.ae

Belarus

445 3399

445 1131

belembas@emirates.net.ae

Belgium

631 9449

631 9353

abudhabi@diplobel.be

Benin

639 4665

639 4667

benin@emirates.net.ae

Bosnia & Herzegovinia

644 4164

644 3919

abhad@bhmc.ae

Brazil

632 0606

632 7727

abubrem@emirates.net.ae

Brunei

448 6999

448 6333

kbdauh98@emirates.net.ae

Canada

694 0300

694 0399

abdbi@dfaitmaeci.gc.ca

China

443 4276

443 6835

chnemb_ae@mfa.gov.cn

Czech Republic

678 2800

679 5716

azab@emirates.net.ae

Egypt

444 5566

444 9878

engemb_abudhabi@mfa.gov.eg

Eritrea

633 1838

634 6451

eriemb@emirates.net.ae

Finland

632 8927

632 5063

finemb@emirates.net.ae

France

443 5100

443 4158

contact@ambafrance.ae

Germany

443 5630

445 5712

info@abu-dhabi.diplo.ae

Greece

449 2550

449 2455

gremb.abd@mfa.gr

Guinea

665 3166

665 2531

ambagui@emirates.net.ae

Hungary

676 6190

676 6215

hungexad@emirates.net.ae

India

449 2700

4444 685

indiauae@emirates.net.ae

Indonesia

445 4448

445 5453

indoemb@emirates.net.ae

Iran

444 7618

444 8714

iranemb@emirates.net.ae

Iraq

665 5152

665 5214

adbem@iraqmofamail.net

Ireland

495 8200

6819233

embassyabudhabi@dfa.ie

Italy

443 5622

443 4337

italianembassy.abudhabi@esteri.it

Japan

443 5696

443 4219

embjpn@emirates.net.ae

Jordan

444 7100

444 9157

embjoad@emirates.net.ae

Kazakhstan

447 6623

447 6624

kazemb@emirates.net.ae

Kenya

666 6300

665 2827

kenyarep@emirates.net.ae

South Korea

443 5337

443 5348

keauhlee@emirates.net.ae

Kuwait

447 7146

447 7675

Lebanon

449 2100

449 3500

libanamb@emirates.net.ae

Libya

445 0030

445 0033

sunnylib@eim.ae

Malaysia

448 2775

448 2779

mwadhabi@emirates.net.ae

Mauritania

446 2724

446 5772

Montenegro

441 8901

441 8900

montenegrouae@mfa.gov.me

Morocco

443 3963

443 3917

sifmabo@emirates.net.ae

Nepal

634 4767

634 4469

nepemuae@emirates.net.ae

Netherlands

632 1920

631 3158

nlgovabu@emirates.net.ae

Nigeria

616 6219

616 6219

nigabh@eim.ae

Norway

621 1221

621 3313

noramb@emirates.net.ae

Oman

446 3333

446 4633

omanemb@emirates.net.ae

Pakistan

444 7800

444 7172

pakisuae@emirates.net.ae

Palestine

443 4652

443 4363

Philippines

641 5922

641 2559

auhpe@emirates.net.ae

Poland

446 5200

446 2967

polcon99@emirates.net.ae

Qatar

449 3300

449 3311

Romania

445 9919

446 1143

romaniae@emirates.net.ae

Russia

672 1797

678 8731

uaeruss@hotmail.com

Saudi Arabia

444 5700

444 8491

Senegal

633 6929

633 6779

senabdi@emirates.net.ae

Somalia

666 9700

665 1580

somen@emirates.net.ae

South Africa

447 3446

447 3031

consular@southafrica.ae

Spain

626 9544

627 8974

emb.abudhabi@mae.es

Sri Lanka

642 6666

642 8289

lankemb@emirates.net.ae

Sudan

444 6699

449 0530

sudembii@emirates.net.ae

Switzerland

627 4636

626 9627

vertretung@adh.rep.admin.ch

Sweden

621 0162

639 4941

swedemb.uae@swedish.org.ae

Syria

444 8768

444 9387

info@syrianembassy.ae

Tanzania

631 3088

631 6618

tanrep@emirates.net.ae

Thailand

642 1772

642 1773

thaiauh@emirates.net.ae

Tunisia

681 1331

681 2707

ambtunad@emirates.net.ae

Turkey

445 4864

445 2522

tcabudbe@eim.ae

Turkmenistan

449 1088

449 2961

tkmemb@emirates.net.ae

Ukraine

632 7586

632 7506

embukr@emirates.net.ae

United Kingdom

610 1100

610 1518

www.britishembassy.gov.uk/uae

USA

414 2200

414 2469

usisamem@emirates.net.ae

Yemen

444 8457

444-7978

yemenemb@emirates.net.ae

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