Dubai’s art scene is really buzzing this season, with so many cool art exhibitions to check out. Whether you’re into big international shows or more local, thought-provoking pieces, there’s a lot happening. We’ve put together a list of some of the best art exhibitions Dubai has on offer right now, so you can plan your visits and get a dose of culture. It’s a great chance to see some amazing work and experience the city’s creative side.
Key Takeaways
- Art Dubai is a major event for art in the Middle East, bringing together many galleries.
- Eltiqa’s “How to Work Together?” is a powerful exhibition you should see.
- Maitha Abdalla’s solo show in Abu Dhabi explores identity in a unique way.
- Mounira Al Solh and Ieva Saudargaite Douaihi have interesting shows in Beirut about myth and memory.
- Dubai is a great place to find new and exciting art this season.
1. Art Dubai
Art Dubai is a big deal in the Middle East art scene. It’s like a gateway for discovering new artists and ideas. The 2025 show had over 120 galleries from 60+ cities, featuring contemporary art, modern pieces, and even digital art. There were also 30 galleries that were there for the first time, with a strong showing from the Middle East, Africa, and South and West Asia.
Art Dubai takes place at Madinat Jumeirah.
It’s not just about looking at art, though. They also have talks and events. For example:
- Art Dubai Commissions Programme
- The Art Business Conference
- After Dark Series
Art Dubai is more than just an exhibition; it’s a meeting place for artists, collectors, and art lovers from all over the world. It’s a chance to see what’s new and exciting in the art world and to connect with people who share your passion.
They even have online exhibitions if you can’t make it in person. You can explore a remarkable private collection of Islamic art.
2. Eltiqa
Eltiqa, which translates to "convergence" or "meeting point" in Arabic, is more than just an art exhibition; it’s a cultural bridge. It’s a space where artists from diverse backgrounds come together, showcasing works that often reflect shared human experiences and perspectives. I always find it interesting to see how different artists interpret similar themes.
Eltiqa aims to promote cross-cultural dialogue through art.
It’s not just about pretty pictures (though there are plenty of those!). It’s about sparking conversations and challenging perceptions. I remember one year, there was a piece that sparked a really interesting debate about identity and belonging. It’s those kinds of moments that make Eltiqa stand out.
Eltiqa provides a platform for emerging and established artists alike, fostering a sense of community and collaboration within the art world. It’s a place where you can discover new talent and connect with artists on a personal level.
Here’s what you can typically expect at an Eltiqa exhibition:
- A wide range of artistic mediums, from painting and sculpture to photography and mixed media.
- Works that explore themes of identity, culture, and social issues.
- Opportunities to meet and interact with the artists themselves.
- A welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for art lovers of all backgrounds.
3. Maitha Abdalla
Maitha Abdalla’s exhibition, ‘Between Metamorphosis and Reality’, is currently showing at the Cultural Foundation in Abu Dhabi. It’s a really interesting look into transformation, identity, and ritual. Abdalla uses paintings and sculptures to explore these themes, often pulling inspiration from folklore and theater. You’ll see figures in dreamlike settings, created with oil, charcoal, and acrylic. It’s a visual style that feels like performance and memory all mixed together.
It’s worth checking out if you’re looking for something that makes you think. The way she combines different elements to create a unique perspective is pretty cool.
This exhibition is open until August 30, 2025, so there’s still time to see it!
4. Mounira Al Solh
Mounira Al Solh, after representing Lebanon at the Venice Biennale, is back in Beirut with Stay Salt, a multimedia exhibition. It’s all about displacement and evil, viewed through a feminist lens. Think of it as a modern take on the old Phoenician story of Europa.
Al Solh uses different mediums to show the goddess Europa. You’ll see ceramic murals, shiny glazed sculptures, and even animated videos. There’s also a life-size sculpture of a woman traveler pulling a suitcase in a shell-shaped boat. The exhibition touches on war and exile, but Al Solh also adds a playful twist to reimagine ancient stories. Europa saves Zeus, women put on fake tears, and old sea journeys meet today’s displacement issues. It’s a powerful look at disruption, identity, and how people bounce back.
It’s interesting how Al Solh mixes serious topics with a bit of humor. It makes you think about heavy stuff in a new way, and it’s not all doom and gloom.
5. Ieva Saudargaite Douaihi
Ieva Saudargaite Douaihi, a Lithuanian-Lebanese artist, brings a unique perspective to the Dubai art scene. Her work often draws inspiration from the natural world, particularly the resilience of plants in urban environments. Her pieces invite viewers to contemplate the relationship between nature and the built environment, and the quiet strength found in unexpected places.
I’ve always found her art to be thought-provoking, especially the way she uses different mediums to convey her message. It’s not just about pretty pictures; it’s about making you think about the world around you in a new way.
- Exploration of urban nature
- Focus on resilience
- Use of mixed media
Ieva’s art reminds us to look closer at the world around us, to find beauty and strength in the everyday, and to appreciate the quiet resilience of nature in the face of urban development.
6. Maxi Cohen
Maxi Cohen’s work is something else. It’s raw, it’s real, and it definitely makes you think. I saw some of her stuff a while back, and it stuck with me. Her art really gets under your skin in a way that’s hard to shake off.
I think what’s cool about her is that she doesn’t seem to hold back. It’s like she’s putting her whole self out there, and that takes guts. It’s not always pretty, but it’s always honest. I’m not sure exactly what she’s showing in Dubai, but I’m betting it’ll be worth checking out.
I always find it interesting how artists can take something personal and make it universal. It’s like they’re holding up a mirror to society, and you can’t help but see yourself reflected in it, even if it’s not always comfortable.
7. Mohammed Kazem
Mohammed Kazem’s work is often a fascinating exploration of place, identity, and technology. He uses GPS coordinates, sound recordings, and video to document and interpret the ever-changing urban landscape of Dubai and beyond. It’s not just about pretty pictures; it’s about capturing the essence of a location through data and sensory experience.
Think of it as a kind of artistic cartography, where the map isn’t just a visual representation but a multi-layered experience. He’s been a fixture in the UAE art scene for a while, and his work always offers something new to think about.
Kazem’s art invites viewers to reconsider their relationship with the environment, prompting reflection on how we perceive and interact with the spaces around us. It’s a subtle but powerful commentary on the impact of modernization and globalization.
His exhibitions are usually pretty thought-provoking, and you can expect to see a mix of media, from photographs to installations. It’s definitely worth checking out if you’re interested in contemporary art that engages with the world in a meaningful way.
8. Abdul Rahman Katanani
Abdul Rahman Katanani’s work is something else. He’s known for using found materials, like barbed wire and scrap metal, to create these really powerful and thought-provoking installations. His art often reflects on displacement, resilience, and the human condition, especially in the context of his experiences growing up in a Palestinian refugee camp.
I remember seeing some of his pieces a while back, and the sheer scale of them was just amazing. It’s not just about the materials he uses, but also the way he transforms them into something beautiful and meaningful. It makes you think about the stories behind the materials and the people they represent.
Katanani’s art is a reminder that beauty and meaning can be found in the most unexpected places. He challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of value and to recognize the potential for transformation in even the most discarded objects.
His exhibitions are always worth checking out if you’re looking for art that makes a statement.
9. Aya Haidar
Aya Haidar’s work often explores themes of displacement, memory, and identity through a personal lens. Her art serves as a powerful commentary on social issues, inviting viewers to reflect on their own experiences and perspectives.
Haidar’s pieces are not just aesthetically pleasing; they are thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, prompting conversations about the complexities of the human condition.
Here are some common themes found in her exhibitions:
- Displacement and belonging
- Memory and nostalgia
- Social and political commentary
10. Naqsh Collective
Naqsh Collective is a design studio founded by the two Jordanian sisters Nisreen and Nermeen Abu-Dail in 2010. They are known for blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design aesthetics. Their work often explores themes of cultural identity and heritage, reinterpreting traditional motifs and techniques in new and innovative ways.
Their pieces range from furniture and lighting to art installations, showcasing a commitment to quality and detail. I saw some of their work at a design fair last year, and it was really impressive how they managed to make something so modern feel so connected to the past. It’s not just about aesthetics; there’s a real sense of storytelling in their designs.
I think what makes Naqsh Collective stand out is their ability to create pieces that are both beautiful and meaningful. They’re not just making pretty things; they’re engaging with their cultural heritage and using design as a way to explore and celebrate it.
Here are some common elements in their designs:
- Geometric patterns inspired by Islamic art
- Calligraphic elements
- Use of natural materials like wood and stone
- Incorporation of traditional weaving techniques
They’ve exhibited their work internationally and have received several awards for their contributions to design. Definitely worth checking out if you’re interested in contemporary design with a cultural twist.
Wrapping Things Up
So, there you have it. Dubai’s art scene is really buzzing this season, with lots of different shows to check out. Whether you’re into modern stuff, classic pieces, or something totally new, there’s probably an exhibition for you. It’s a great chance to see some cool art and maybe even find a new favorite artist. Don’t miss out on these chances to see what’s happening in the art world here.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I find out about the latest art shows in Dubai?
Dubai has many art shows happening all the time. You can find out what’s new by checking websites like Visit Dubai or GQ Middle East. They often list current and upcoming art events.
What is Art Dubai?
Art Dubai is a big art fair that brings together lots of galleries and artists from all over the world. It’s a great place to see many different kinds of art in one spot.
Are there specific places in Dubai known for art galleries?
Dubai has many art galleries that show works by local and international artists. Some popular areas for art include Alserkal Avenue, which has many galleries and creative spaces.
Are art exhibitions in Dubai suitable for families and children?
Yes, many art shows in Dubai are family-friendly. Some events, like Art Dubai, even have special programs for kids to learn about and enjoy art.
Do I need to buy tickets for art exhibitions?
Some art shows might have a small fee, but many galleries and smaller exhibitions are free to enter. It’s always a good idea to check the event’s website before you go.
When is the best time of year to visit art exhibitions in Dubai?
The best time to visit art shows in Dubai is usually during the cooler months, from October to April. This is when many major art events and festivals take place.
