Ibda’ Scholarship Fund
Ibda’ supports training in music, theatre and creative writing. Through ZAD’s partners, it also helps young artists access performance spaces and share their work with audiences.
Room to learn.Space to create.
ZAD supports music, theatre and dance in Jordan through learning opportunities, artist development and cultural partnerships.
About ZAD
Rooted in culture. Open to possibility.
Launched in 2023, ZAD for Arts is the cultural initiative of the Arab Cultural Society and the Samir Abdulhadi Fund for Culture and Arts. We support learning, artistic development and independent cultural spaces, drawing on Arab cultural roots and looking towards the future.
Read our story
Our story
ZAD’s story builds on the Arab Cultural Society, founded in 1967. The Society’s work has connected education and culture through initiatives including Al-Ra’ed Al-Arabi School, Turath embroidery and the Ibda’ Fund. In 2023, its collaboration with the Samir Abdulhadi Fund for Culture and Arts brought ZAD into being.
Timeline
- 1967The Arab Cultural Society is established.
- 1975Al-Ra’ed Al-Arabi School opens.
- 1989Turath begins its work to preserve embroidery.
- 2016The Ibda’ Fund is launched.
- 2018Kermaz opens a permanent embroidery exhibition.
- 2023ZAD for Arts launches.
How we support the arts
ZAD Music Academy
Learn an instrument, develop your musical understanding and build confidence in performance. The academy combines practical and theoretical learning for different age groups. Speak to the team about the right starting point for you or your child.
Explore the instruments
Choose an instrument to include it in your enquiry. The team will confirm available lessons and the next steps.
Preview your enquiry
Hello ZAD Music Academy. I would like to ask about lessons, available times and how to join.
ABRSM exam preparation
Preparation for ABRSM music examinations is among the academy’s published programmes. Ask the team about the appropriate level and current availability.
Music for younger learners
The Young Musicians programme is for children aged 4–7. Contact the academy for current arrangements.
Your first step starts with a conversation
- 01
Tell us what interests you
Ask about the instrument or programme you would like to explore.
- 02
Meet the academy team
Discuss your experience and goals, and arrange a visit where appropriate.
- 03
Agree the next step
The team will explain suitable options and whether an audition is needed. Enrolment is arranged with the academy, not through online checkout.
Arab Community Orchestra
Established with ZAD’s support and led by founder and artistic initiator Lutfi Malhas, the orchestra brings together experienced and developing musicians. Its performances draw on Arab and Western classical traditions.
Show details
The orchestra’s published membership includes professionals, students and Friends of the Orchestra. Contact the team about participation and current requirements. Academy study does not automatically secure an orchestra place.
Support for the next stage
Samir Abdulhadi Scholarship for Culture and Arts
Launched in August, this scholarship supports bachelor’s-level study in music. It is currently available to ZAD Music Academy students and members of the Arab Community Orchestra, helping them continue into higher education and develop their professional pathways.
Working together for the arts
ZAD provides funding and works with independent cultural organisations to help sustain their programmes. Our partnerships with Al Balad Theater and Al Shams Theater support spaces where artists and audiences can meet.
Al Balad Theater
Founded in 2005, Al Balad Theater is an independent space for theatre, music and cultural exchange. Its programme includes performances, training and festivals such as Al Balad Music Festival, Baladk and Hakaya.
Al Shams Theater
Opened in 2017 in the restored Concord Cinema, Al Shams Theater welcomes local, Arab and international artists. It offers a space for performance, learning and shared cultural experiences.
People, performance and shared moments
A selection of photographs shared by ZAD from performances and cultural activities.
The foundations of ZAD
Arab Cultural Society
Samir Abdulhadi Fund for Culture and Arts
Samir Abdulhadi Fund for Culture and Arts
The Fund’s grant to the Arab Cultural Society helped establish ZAD in 2023. Its support reflects a long-term commitment to cultural and educational opportunities. The Fund is distinct from the newer scholarship programme that shares Samir Abdulhadi’s name.
Born in Jerusalem in 1942, Samir Abdulhadi studied civil engineering at the American University of Beirut. Alongside his engineering career, he supported educational and cultural institutions in Jordan and Palestine, including Taawon. His contributions include learning facilities, cultural spaces and initiatives that preserve heritage.
With the support of
Our supporters help sustain ZAD’s work in arts and education.
The Omar Abdulhadi Foundation supports education, health, social and cultural initiatives, and scientific research in Palestine, Jordan and Lebanon.
The Ghiath and Nadia Sukhtian Foundation supports initiatives in culture, arts, education and economic empowerment.
Stay connected with ZAD
Interested in volunteering, sharing your skills or supporting our work? Tell us how you would like to get involved. For music lessons, contact the academy directly.
Let’s talk
For music lessons and academy enquiries
For partnerships and institutional support
For volunteering and general enquiries
Get involved