Abu Dhabi’s ambition to establish itself as a cultural and luxury hub began over a decade ago with the $27 billion Saadiyat Island project, which aimed to make the UAE a cultural tourism destination. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, completed in 2017 for $650 million, was a major milestone of this development, branding itself as the “world’s first universal museum” for its expansive, global art perspective. In 2026, the Louvre will be joined by the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, a Frank Gehry-designed museum that plans to juxtapose Western contemporary artists with influential voices from the Middle East and Asia.

These cultural efforts are rooted in the UAE’s 2005 strategy to diversify its economy and establish itself as a major destination for art and tourism. Part of this initiative was Abu Dhabi Art, an annual fair that began in 2007 and rebranded in 2009 under the Abu Dhabi Tourism Development & Investment Company (TDIC). Despite its ambitions to foster transnational cultural exchange, the fair has struggled to compete with Dubai’s booming commercial art scene, which hosts the majority of galleries and auction house headquarters in the region. Ben Floyd, CEO of Art Dubai, observes that while Dubai has attracted a strong commercial art market, Abu Dhabi has prioritized institutional development, positioning itself as a quieter, more traditional “older brother” to Dubai’s dynamic, commercial scene.

However, Abu Dhabi Art’s position might soon change. Rumors have circulated about a potential deal for Art Basel to take over management of the fair, with sources indicating a $20 million investment as part of the arrangement. Although neither Art Basel nor TDIC have confirmed the speculations, the move could signify a strategic shift for Abu Dhabi Art under the guidance of Art Basel, which has found success with recent projects in Paris. Art Basel’s parent company, MCH Group, has faced financial difficulties with a reported 41% net income decline, fueling the need for profitable expansions.

The UAE’s booming status as a haven for high-net-worth individuals has fueled interest from global luxury brands and investors. Over recent years, a significant number of Western billionaires have relocated to the UAE, attracted by its tax benefits, as well as residents from the Middle East who view the UAE as a politically stable base. This influx has made the UAE an attractive prospect for art fairs, which must adapt to where high-spending collectors are likely to congregate.

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The programme is structured around three main thematic areas: ‘Global History of Museums and Collections,’ ‘Circulation of Styles, Images and Texts,’ and ‘Precious Materials and Routes of Exchange.’ Through these axes, the programme intends to explore critical topics in art history, expanding the museum’s ongoing research efforts. This launch signifies a noteworthy advancement in Louvre Abu Dhabi’s dedication to bolstering art historical research on a worldwide scale.

To facilitate this research, the museum will utilize its cutting-edge facilities, including the Resource Centre, Conservation Centre, and the Gulf region’s first Scientific Laboratory for artwork material analysis. Scholars will have access to these resources to pursue innovative research endeavors. The programme also plans to host symposiums, workshops, and publications aimed at fostering significant discourse and sharing knowledge about its vast collections, all while examining broader themes in art history and heritage science. This initiative strives to cultivate a dynamic academic community, enhancing the understanding of the cultural narratives that its artworks represent, reinforcing Louvre Abu Dhabi’s ambition to emerge as a global centre for research and scholarship.

H.E. Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of DCT Abu Dhabi, stated, “An important element of Abu Dhabi’s transformation into a global cultural centre is its role as a hub for research and knowledge exchange. While they remain rooted in a regional context, it is vital that our cultural institutions are plugged into the global discourse, benefiting from diverse viewpoints and perspectives. This grant programme will bring talent from around the world to Abu Dhabi, helping to generate fresh insights into topics which reflect our shared humanity.”

Fellowships and Institutional Grants

As part of the inaugural Fellowships and Grants Programme, Louvre Abu Dhabi is introducing both short- and long-term fellowships, offering critical support to local and international scholars in their research projects. These fellowships come with significant financial assistance, providing AED 85,000 for short-term fellows (three months) and AED 245,000 for long-term fellows (nine months).

In 2025, the programme plans to introduce institutional grants designed to promote collaborative research efforts between Louvre Abu Dhabi and various cultural institutions, including museums, research centres, and universities. These grants will support initiatives that align with the museum’s mission of encouraging cultural exchange and dialogue.

Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, remarked, “Launching this programme is a natural extension of Louvre Abu Dhabi’s mission to be a universal museum, one that not only collects and displays the world’s artistic heritage but also actively contributes to its preservation and understanding. By providing scholars with the resources and support needed to conduct pioneering research, we are reaffirming our commitment to deepening global knowledge and fostering cross-cultural dialogue.”

Dr. Guilhem André, Director of Scientific, Curatorial and Collections Management at Louvre Abu Dhabi, added, “In launching Louvre Abu Dhabi’s fellowship and grants programme, we want to collaborate with scholars and institutions worldwide, offering essential support for researchers and museum professionals. This initiative will enable them to engage deeply with Louvre Abu Dhabi’s collections and contribute meaningfully to the global discourse on art, heritage, and museum studies.”

Key Themes of the Programme

Researchers and scholars focusing on Art History, Archaeology, Museum Studies, Heritage Science, Conservation, and related fields are invited to submit proposals that align with one of the three thematic areas:

• Global History of Museums and Collections: This theme investigates the development of collections and museums globally. Using Louvre Abu Dhabi as a focal point, it examines the diverse experiences of curating, engaging audiences, and displaying art in the Arab world and beyond, spanning all five continents. Key topics include exploring the conception and articulation of the “universal museum” concept and the interlinked histories and collections of museums.
• Circulation of Styles, Images, and Texts: This area focuses on the flow of objects, artistic styles, images, and texts since the 2nd millennium. It explores the evolution and dissemination of forms, techniques, and themes, alongside the effects of cross-cultural exchanges on the spread of artworks. Projects are encouraged to challenge traditional cultural hierarchies and may cover topics like cultural transfers in art history and the notion of multiple modernities.
• Precious Materials and Routes of Exchange: This theme emphasizes the material aspects of artworks in the Louvre Abu Dhabi collection, reflecting influences from both Eastern and Western traditions and underscoring the significance of historical trade routes such as the Silk Road. Projects in this area should investigate how trade and cultural interactions have shaped the use of precious materials over time, aiming to recontextualize artworks across various eras and cultures while shedding light on evolving concepts of rarity, beauty, wealth, and value.

Application Process and Timeline

Applications for the Fellowships and Grants Programme are currently open until January 10, 2025, with selected candidates to be announced in March 2025. A committee of esteemed museum representatives and experts will supervise the selection process, meticulously reviewing all submissions, with potential interviews as part of the evaluation. Proposals must be submitted online via the museum’s website in English. For inquiries regarding the application process, interested individuals may contact research@louvreabudhabi.ae.

Louvre Abu Dhabi’s Operating Hours

• Museum: Open 10 am – 6:30 pm (Tuesday – Thursday); extended hours 10 am – 8:30 pm (Friday – Sunday); closed on Monday.
• Dome: Open 10 am – midnight (Tuesday – Sunday) – last entry 11 pm; closed on Monday.
• Museum Café: Open 10 am – 7 pm (Tuesday – Thursday); extended hours 10 am – 9 pm (Friday – Sunday); closed on Monday.
• Art Lounge: Open 3 pm – 12 am (last order 11 pm); closed on Monday and during summer.
• Fouquet’s Abu Dhabi and Marta Bar: Open 12 pm – 12 am (last orders at 10 pm) (Tuesday – Thursday, Sunday); weekends: 12 pm – 1 am (last order at 10:30 pm) (Friday – Saturday); closed on Monday.
• Aptitude Café: Open 9 am – 10 pm (daily including Monday).

Follow Louvre Abu Dhabi on social media: Facebook (Louvre Abu Dhabi), Twitter (@LouvreAbuDhabi), and Instagram (@LouvreAbuDhabi) #LouvreAbuDhabi.

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Tomasz Sawoszczuk, lead researcher for Odotheka, explained to Euro News, “We can feel the element of walnut wood, because the walnut board was used as the base of the painting, and the smell of oil paintings. It’s a very nice, historical museum smell.”

The National Museum created a scent-infused pen to enhance visitor experience by offering a whiff of the painting’s historical ambiance, a concept embraced by museum director Andrzej Szczerski, who described it as evoking a “15th century palace in Milan.”

Louvre Abu Dhabi curators have explored this concept further, revealing the imagined scents of four notable artworks:

1. Thurifer Angel in a Yellow Tunic by Bernhard Strigel (circa 1520)

Curator Mariam AlDhaheri describes the painting’s scent as reminiscent of Strigel’s studio, filled with organic pigments and oils. “You can imagine the smell of frankincense and nature,” says AlDhaheri.

2. The Adoration of the Magi by Pieter Coecke van Aelst (circa 1523)

AlDhaheri highlights the diverse scents from nature and luxury items, reflecting the origins of frankincense and the rich, exotic aromas of the Magi’s gifts.

3. Still Life with Chinese Ceramics and an Oriental Carpet by Willem Kalf (1658)

Andrea Rozsavolgyi notes that the painting evokes floral and spicy scents from the 17th century Dutch Golden Age. “The aroma of fresh flowers, salty sea air, and spices would have been prevalent,” Rozsavolgyi comments.

4. The Cup of Chocolate by Pierre-Auguste Renoir (1877-1878)

Himanshu Kadam points out that Renoir’s studio would have been filled with the smells of paints, fresh canvases, and the luxurious scents of carnations and roses. “The painting’s context includes the industrial age’s diverse smells and the fresh market breeze,” Kadam adds.

The exploration of these scents offers a novel way to engage with art, extending beyond visual appreciation to a multi-sensory experience.

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Rabate praised the project’s aim to bring together a diverse range of cultural and educational institutions under one roof, calling it a “remarkable commitment” to fostering curiosity, creativity, and intellectual growth. He noted that this initiative reflects a deep belief in the importance of knowledge, connection, and openness. “What Abu Dhabi is doing in Saadiyat is gathering all sources of curiosity, creativity, inspiration, and education. It’s an incredibly bold, I would say, commitment and belief in the importance of knowledge, of connection, of openness,” Rabate stated.

He further elaborated that the concept has been evolving for several years, involving extensive planning and collaboration to create a cohesive narrative for Abu Dhabi.

“The idea to bring world-class museums has been communicated for a while. What we see now is the critical moment where the plan is becoming a reality,” Rabate explained.

The Saadiyat Cultural District’s institutions will not only share physical proximity but also collaborate on various levels to enhance the visitor experience. According to Rabate, this collaboration will create a seamless flow between institutions. “For the visitor experience, it is extremely pleasant to be able to move from one to the other, going to Zayed National Museum in the morning, an exhibition at Guggenheim, then having dinner at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and maybe catching a late show at Berklee,” he said. Each institution will contribute its unique mandate and narrative, enriching the overall cultural landscape.

With its focus on art, history, and technology, the Saadiyat Cultural District aims to position itself as a unique global platform. It will celebrate Abu Dhabi’s rich traditions while embracing modern advancements, making it a vibrant cultural hub that reflects both the city’s heritage and its forward-looking vision.

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Art Exhibition Louvre Abu Dhabi Celebrates World Photography Day

As World Photography Day approaches on Monday, Louvre Abu Dhabi is offering a special treat for art enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy free access to the museum’s galleries on Saturday and Sunday, providing an opportunity to explore the diverse collection. The museum also invites visitors to capture and share their favorite artworks on social media, tagging Louvre Abu Dhabi for a chance to be featured on its official Instagram page.

Date: Saturday and Sunday Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi Contact: 600 565566

In Context: The Spectrum Group Exhibition at Manarat Al Saadiyat

Manarat Al Saadiyat is hosting the second edition of the Spectrum Residency exhibition, featuring works by eight artists from the UAE, Canada, the Philippines, and Palestine. Guided by mentor and curator Nasser Al Maazmi, these artists have spent the past year exploring the influence of culture on perspectives. The exhibition includes a variety of mediums, such as immersive installations, photography, mixed media, and a short film.

Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi

Art Exhibition Gavin Jantjes Retrospective at Sharjah Art Foundation

The Sharjah Art Foundation presents a comprehensive retrospective of South African artist and curator Gavin Jantjes. Titled To Be Free, the exhibition spans over five decades of Jantjes’ work, reflecting his role as a key figure in societal and cultural transformation. The exhibition comprehensively charts his evolution as a multifaceted artist, encompassing roles as painter, printmaker, writer, curator, and activist, beginning with the anti-apartheid prints of the 1970s and leading up to his recent abstract paintings.

Art Exhibition Nasser Almulhim’s Solo Exhibition at Tabari Artspace

This weekend is one of the last chances to catch In-Between, a solo exhibition by Saudi abstract painter Nasser Almulhim. Inspired by Carl Jung’s psychological theories, Almulhim’s large-scale, vividly colored paintings delve into the human psyche. His works serve as both an artistic and spiritual journey, contributing to his personal growth.

Runs until September 6 Location: Tabari Artspace, DIFC, Dubai Contact: 04 323 0820

2024 MFA Graduate Show at 421 Arts Campus

The 421 Arts Campus in collaboration with NYU Abu Dhabi presents On a Timeline, the 2024 MFA Graduate Show. The exhibition highlights the research and experimentation of five MFA graduates, effectively showcasing their exploration of the contemporary global condition through various mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpture, installation, and mixed media.

Location: 421 Arts Campus, Abu Dhabi

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Burj Khalifa: A Sky-High Wonder

Height and Design

The Burj Khalifa, standing at 828 meters, is the tallest building in the world. Designed by the Chicago-based architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill, it features a sleek, tapering form inspired by Islamic architecture. The Y-shaped floor plan maximizes views of the Arabian Gulf and enhances the building’s stability.

Engineering Feats

Constructing the Burj Khalifa required groundbreaking engineering solutions. The building’s foundation extends 50 meters underground, supported by a large reinforced concrete mat and piles. The exterior is clad in reflective glazing, aluminium, and textured stainless steel, which help manage the desert heat.

Cultural Impact

Beyond its physical stature, the Burj Khalifa symbolizes Dubai’s rapid growth and futuristic vision. It houses luxury residences, corporate suites, and the Armani Hotel Dubai, making it a bustling centre for business and leisure.

Louvre Abu Dhabi: A Cultural Beacon

Architectural Design

Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is a masterpiece of modern architecture. Its most striking feature is the dome, an intricate, geometric structure that creates a ‘rain of light’ effect, reminiscent of sunlight filtering through palm fronds.

Cultural Significance

The museum represents a historic partnership between the UAE and France, aiming to bridge the gap between Eastern and Western art. It houses a vast collection of artworks and artefacts from various cultures and epochs, emphasizing universal themes and shared human experiences.

Sustainability and Innovation

The Louvre Abu Dhabi incorporates several sustainable design elements. The dome provides natural cooling and shade, reducing energy consumption. Additionally, the museum’s construction included careful planning to protect the marine environment around Saadiyat Island.

Expo 2020 Dubai Pavilions: Showcases of Innovation

Diverse Designs

Expo 2020 Dubai featured pavilions from 192 countries, each showcasing unique architectural styles and innovations. Highlights include the UAE Pavilion, designed by Santiago Calatrava, inspired by a falcon in flight, and the Sustainability Pavilion, which generates its own energy and water.

Technological Advancements

The pavilions were equipped with cutting-edge technology to enhance visitor experience and sustainability. Virtual reality, interactive displays, and smart building systems were widely used. The Mobility Pavilion featured a moving platform that demonstrated future transportation technologies.

Global Collaboration

Expo 2020 Dubai was a platform for global collaboration, highlighting the UAE’s role as a nexus for cultural and technological exchange. The event emphasized themes of sustainability, mobility, and opportunity, aligning with the UAE’s vision for the future.

Conclusion

The architectural marvels of the UAE, including the Burj Khalifa, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and Expo 2020 Dubai pavilions, are testaments to the country’s innovative spirit and cultural vision. These structures not only push the boundaries of design and engineering but also reflect the UAE’s commitment to fostering global connections and cultural dialogue. As the UAE continues to evolve, its architectural landmarks will undoubtedly remain symbols of its dynamic and ambitious character.

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Curated by Jean-Remi Touzet, a respected conservator for paintings at the Musee d’Orsay, and Jerome Farigoule, the esteemed chief curator at Louvre Abu Dhabi, the exhibition promises a profound exploration of post-impressionism. With the invaluable support of Aisha Alahmadi, a dedicated curatorial assistant at Louvre Abu Dhabi, the event is set to delve into the transformative period spanning from 1886 to 1905.

During these dynamic two decades, artistic innovation and experimentation flourished, marking the transition from impressionism to the remarkable emergence of the ‘fauves’ at the Salon d’Automne. A press release accompanying the announcement emphasized the significance of this era in shaping the course of art history.

Beyond Van Gogh, the exhibition will feature notable highlights from the Arab world, including works by the celebrated French Egyptian artist, Georges Hanna Sabbagh. Among the showcased masterpieces are “The Artist and his family at La Clarte” (1920) and “The Sabbaghs in Paris” (1921), offering a unique perspective on the intersection of cultures and artistic expression.

As anticipation mounts for this extraordinary showcase of artistic brilliance, art enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike eagerly await the opportunity to immerse themselves in the timeless beauty and profound significance of post-impressionist art. With its rich tapestry of masterpieces and insightful curation, the exhibition promises to be a transformative journey through the evolution of art, inviting visitors to explore the boundless depths of creativity and expression.

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Ishara Art Foundation presents ‘Only Life, Myriad Places,’ a groundbreaking solo exhibition by Sudarshan Shetty. Showcasing his latest film ‘One Life Many’ alongside rare videos, installations, and sculptures, the exhibit blurs reality’s boundaries. Shetty’s work delves into the interplay between dreams and waking moments, memories and illusions. Eight significant pieces reflect his South Asian cultural fascination, emphasizing the ‘poetics of listening.’ The exhibition challenges conventional art preservation, inviting visitors to experience the ephemeral. ‘One Life, Myriad Places’ encourages multi-sensory perception, with physical, and virtual tours, educational events, and artist discussions enriching the experience.

Van Gogh X Japan
Theatre of Dreams and Art
14 July 2023–30 August 2023

Step into a world where art and history converge at the Van Gogh X Japan immersive exhibit. Explore the captivating synergy between traditional Japanese prints and iconic Western art, including the works of Van Gogh. Uncover the narrative behind each exquisite piece as Ukiyo-e influences Van Gogh’s style. Immerse yourself in a 360° visual feast, where every detail is magnified. And, a special treat awaits in the Secret Room—a contemporary New Media Narnia crafted by Japanese artists. With Kimono & Ikebana exhibitions, Masterclasses in Japanese flower arrangements, and Tea Ceremonies, this experience transcends time and place.

Made in Tashkeel 2023 Group exhibition
Alserkal Avenue, Warehouse 58
20 June 2023–8 September 2023

Tashkeel marks its 15th anniversary with the anticipated showcase ‘Made in Tashkeel.‘ This annual exhibition is a tribute to our shared odyssey, celebrating art and ingenuity. The event unites a remarkable array of creations from members, resident artists, workshop leaders, participants, and recent exhibitors who have contributed to Tashkeel’s journey. A testament to our commitment to artistry, ‘Made in Tashkeel’ embodies the spirit of creativity that has defined us for 15 years.

Letters of Light
Louvre Abu Dhabi
13 September 2023 – 14 January 2024

From September 13, 2023, to January 14, 2024, the ‘Letters of Light‘ exhibition unveils the sacred texts of three Abrahamic faiths – the Quran, the Christian Bible, and the Hebrew Bible. Hosted by Bibliothèque nationale de France, Musée du Louvre, and Louvre Abu Dhabi, visitors will marvel at these revered manuscripts and artifacts, tracing the origins, writings, and cross-cultural influence of monotheism. Immerse yourself in illuminated calligraphy, as skilled artisans’ work comes to life through precious pigments. This extraordinary exhibit, curated by Laurent Héricher and Dr. Souraya Noujaim, with associate curators Sabine Maffre and Khalid Chakor-Alami, promises an awe-inspiring exploration of art and spirituality.

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The chief curator of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Guilhem Andre, explained that their aim is to bring the most beautiful artworks to Abu Dhabi and the region in all forms and shapes. They selected “Les Marionnettes” due to its exceptional quality and the fact that Fragonard was a celebrated artist of his time. However, Fragonard’s life and career remain somewhat shrouded in mystery, with limited information available due to the turbulent period of the French Revolution. Nevertheless, Fragonard, born in Grasse, a city now renowned for perfume, is believed to have created over 500 artworks, exploring various painting styles ranging from historical and mythological subjects to landscapes.

Painted in 1770, “Les Marionnettes” depicts a social gathering, likely set in a private garden in modern-day Paris during a Sunday in September. People of different social backgrounds, including commoners and nobility, come together to enjoy outdoor events. The focal point of the painting showcases individuals gathered around a puppet show, while others engage in purchasing small items from nearby stalls on the left side of the image.

Andre noted that the painting does not follow a narrative but rather exudes a captivating atmosphere with its beautiful, brightly lit landscape. The curator believes that “Les Marionnettes” might have served as a prototype for another larger work by Fragonard, currently owned by Banque de France.

Passed down through generations of collectors, the painting was acquired by the Louvre Abu Dhabi from the heirs of the Weil-Picard family, who had possessed it since 1936. This acquisition not only adds to the rich tapestry of the museum’s collection but also provides visitors with a rare opportunity to appreciate the lesser-known yet captivating works of Jean-Honore Fragonard.

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The first exhibition, Picturing the Cosmos, will be held in the Children’s Museum from 18 July 2023 to June 2025. It will take children on a journey through representations of space in art and address questions such as why humans have always been fascinated by the cosmos and how the sky has been a source of inspiration and imagination through the ages. The exhibition aims to help children develop the observational and analytical skills needed to become space explorers.

The second exhibition, Letters of Light, will be held from 13 September 2023 to 14 January 2024. It will explore the Holy Books of the three Abrahamic religions – the Quran, the Christian Bible, and the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) – and their associated scholarly, talismanic, and mystical practices. Curated by Laurent Héricher and Dr. Souraya Noujaim, the exhibition will foster a dialogue between the monotheistic traditions while respecting the unique characteristics of each.

The third exhibition, Cartier, Islamic Inspiration and Modern Design, will be held from 15 November 2023 to 24 March 2024. It will highlight the influence of Islamic art on Cartier’s iconic designs and is co-organized with the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the Musée du Louvre, France Muséums, with the support of Cartier.

Louvre Abu Dhabi Art Here 2023 will showcase works by artists shortlisted for the third Richard Mille Art Prize from 21 November 2023 to February 2024. The fifth and final exhibition, Fables from East and West: from Kalila wa Dimna to the Fables of La Fontaine, will be held from 20 March 2024 to 14 July 2024. It will showcase the influence of animal fables in the ancient world.

Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, said that the museum’s mission has always centred around providing an inclusive and engaging space where a plethora of voices, ideas, and stories are told. The upcoming exhibitions and events are a testament to the museum’s enduring commitment to serving its community, which are at the heart of all it does. Dr. Souraya Noujaim, Scientific, Curatorial, and Collections Management Director, Louvre Abu Dhabi, added that the exhibitions and programming celebrate the shared creativity of humanity and offer visitors of all ages and backgrounds an opportunity to explore a world of wonder through art.

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