Deadline: 22 September 2025

Description

The UNESCO–AlUla Fellowships Programme, launched in partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla, offers a transformative two-year experience for ten outstanding fellows from across the world. Hosted in Saudi Arabia’s historic AlUla region, the programme combines advanced fieldwork, international traineeships, and academic exchange. Fellows will gain hands-on expertise in cultural heritage research, conservation, and management, while contributing to UNESCO’s broader mission of safeguarding heritage and achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Over 24 months, participants rotate through the Kingdoms Institute in AlUla, UNESCO field offices worldwide, and national heritage institutions, ensuring both local immersion and global exposure.

Eligibility

Applicants must be between 25 and 40 years old, hold the nationality of one of the invited UNESCO Member States or Associate Members, and have at least a master’s degree (or equivalent) in fields such as archaeology, architecture, heritage management, anthropology, museum studies, conservation, or social sciences. Excellent command of English is required, while knowledge of other UNESCO official languages (Arabic, French, Spanish, Russian, or Chinese) is an asset. The programme values innovation, cross-disciplinary skills, and cultural diversity.

Benefits

Selected fellows will receive comprehensive support, including:

• Full coverage of international travel, local transportation, accommodation, and food during the three rotations.
• Monthly stipends are aligned with UN regulations for living expenses.
• Medical insurance provided by the Royal Commission for AlUla.
• Immersive fieldwork in AlUla (6 months), followed by a 12-month traineeship at UNESCO headquarters or field offices worldwide, and a 6-month placement in national heritage institutions or cultural organizations.
  This structure provides both in-depth field experience and international professional exposure

How to apply

Applications must be submitted in English by 22 September 2025 (CET) to alulafellowship@unesco.org. Required documents include a CV (max. 2 pages), certified copies of diplomas, a completed application form (Annex 4), a motivation letter, a proposal form (Annex 5), a 2-minute self-introduction video, and a valid passport. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews, and the final selection will prioritize academic excellence, innovation, and gender and cultural balance.

Contact information

For inquiries, contact alulafellowship@unesco.org

For more information, visit the official website.