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Egypt

Literature Residency

The Egyptian capital has inspired poets and writers for a long time. From Mid-June 2025 three writers from Algeria, Germany, Lebanon, Tunisia, or Yemen get the opportunity to spend six weeks in Cairo to develop their poetry or short stories further. The residency takes place in the “White Villa” in the neighbourhood of Dokki where the three writers share one apartment. As part of the residency meetings with institutions and individuals from the literary scene are organized and there is the possibility to present previous work at a public event at the Goethe-Institut in Cairo. The residents will also have ample time to explore Cairo, meet with fellow artists and foster new collaborations or strengthening existing ones. We are interested in artists who have a strong reason for spending six weeks in Cairo and who are interested in engaging in new collaborations, particularly interdisciplinary.

On this page:

Literature Residency Canva

Open Call

Benefits of the Residency

  • A comprehensive residency program with a flexible structure that allows for ample time for free exploration, as well as pre-planned networking and exchange activities.
  • A round Trip (Economy) and visa fees (25 USD) are covered.
  • Accommodation at our fully equipped residency space.
  • A communal workspace.
  • A grant amount of 1.200 EUR.
  • Access to the Goethe-Institut Library.
  • The opportunity to have a public reading event in Cairo

Application Procedure

Please send the following information in English or Arabic to Ms. Nada Abdelwahab at this email Residenz-Kairo@goethe.de until 16.04.2025:
1. C.V
2. Motivation letter with the following guidelines:
- Why do you want to take part in this residency in Cairo?
- Is there a specific artist/author you would like to meet or collaborate with?
- Why is this residency important in terms of supporting your work on the concept you submitted?
3. Max. 1 page concept note of the project you would like to explore during your residency.
4. Links to previous published works (please add them in an attached file, not in the body of the email)

All applications will be reviewed by a jury who will select three artists for the residency program. All applicants will be informed until 01.05.2025.

Selection Criteria

  • Writers who have the nationality of or are based in Algeria, Germany, Lebanon, Tunisia, or Yemen.
  • Innovative and compelling artistic practice and body of work.
  • Ability to work and communicate well in English.
  • Willing and eager to have cultural exchange and share experiences.
  • Commitment to the residency program in its entirety.

Contact

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact: Residenz-Kairo@goethe.de