From 19 to 23 November, Abu Dhabi came alive with vibrant artistic energy as the annual Abu Dhabi Art Fair opened its doors—one of the most significant cultural events in the region and the world. This year’s edition stood out with its remarkable level of diversity and innovation, making the fair a favored destination for art enthusiasts, professionals, and those seeking the latest creative trends.
From the very first moment, it was clear that the fair offered a fully immersive artistic experience. The lights, colors, installations, and conversations flowing between artists and visitors collectively created a warm and lively atmosphere, allowing attendees to feel as though they were walking through a boundless world of ideas and imagination.
Artistic Diversity and New Perspectives
The fair hosted dozens of galleries from around the globe, showcasing an extensive mix of artistic styles—from classical paintings and contemporary movements to digital artworks and large-scale installations. This diversity offered visitors the chance to explore multiple creative journeys and listen to stories from both emerging and established artists who shared their sources of inspiration, creative paths, and how they approach social and human issues through art.
The international pavilions further enriched the fair with a uniquely global spirit, as each culture presented its own perspective on beauty and innovation. This added a profound human dimension that strengthened dialogue between civilizations through the universal language of art.
Accompanying Programs and Dialogue Sessions
Abu Dhabi Art is not limited to exhibitions alone; it also features an inspiring cultural program that includes panel discussions and workshops led by artists and experts from the region and beyond. These sessions provided visitors with a space for reflection, conversation, and the exchange of ideas on the relationship between art and society, and the role art plays in fostering understanding among communities.
The calm and inviting tone of these gatherings gave the audience a sense of belonging to a global community united by an appreciation for creativity and beauty, adding an elevated human layer to the overall experience.
An Experience that Inspires and Lasts
With its diverse atmosphere and rich artistic content, Abu Dhabi Art Fair leaves a lasting impression on its visitors—whether through its captivating artworks, warm conversations, or the opportunities it offers to discover new names in the art world. It is an event that brings together beauty, culture, and innovation under one roof, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to supporting the arts and strengthening their role in bringing people closer from all corners of the world.
Abu Dhabi Art Fair
His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, inaugurated the 17th edition of Abu Dhabi Art on 19 November at Manarat Al Saadiyat. Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the fair continued until 23 November.
During his tour, His Highness explored key artworks and sculptures showcased at the event, as well as projects presented by artistic institutions participating through 142 galleries representing 34 countries — including 53 galleries exhibiting for the first time at the fair.
On the occasion of the opening, His Highness emphasized the importance of reinforcing the cultural landscape within the Emirate. He noted that Abu Dhabi Art plays a vital role in supporting the ambitious goals of Abu Dhabi’s cultural vision by spotlighting creative talent and providing a global platform for cultural dialogue.
The annual November fair serves as the culmination of the year-round visual arts program organized by Abu Dhabi Art. It brings together a selection of local and international galleries presenting artworks for sale, displayed alongside exhibitions, commissioned pieces, and large-scale installations both within the fair and across the emirate.
Exhibitors
Participating exhibitors are selected each year by an internal committee at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, based on proposals submitted through the Abu Dhabi Art website. Some exhibitors are invited directly by guest curators who oversee specific sections of the fair. Contemporary and modern international galleries present a wide variety of artworks for sale created by diverse artists.
Curators
Each edition of Abu Dhabi Art invites renowned global curators to design an integrated artistic program that brings together a select range of exhibitions, panel discussions, and performances. Through this, the fair highlights diverse perspectives on global artistic trends and contemporary cultural practices. Abu Dhabi Art offers a year-long schedule of events, culminating in the modern and contemporary art fair held every November.
