Managed by Art Dubai Group, the grant aligns with the government’s efforts to position Dubai as a leading global hub for the creative economy. By supporting local artists and galleries, the initiative helps expand their international presence while reinforcing Dubai’s status as a thriving cultural center.

Strengthening Dubai’s Art Ecosystem

Through this initiative, Dubai Culture aims to:

• Enhance the city’s reputation as the region’s art capital.
• Encourage both emerging and established UAE-based and Emirati artists.
• Provide financial backing to galleries for international exposure.
• Drive growth in Dubai’s creative economy by attracting long-term commitments from galleries and artists.

Eligible galleries must meet the following criteria:

• Maintain a full-time presence in Dubai.
• Represent Emirati artists or those who have resided in the UAE for at least three years.
• Regularly showcase their programs beyond their gallery space, such as at institutions or art fairs.

Qualifying galleries can apply for up to 50% financial support for their booths at international art fairs, depending on the portion dedicated to Emirati or UAE-based artists.

Industry Leaders Welcome the Initiative

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design, and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, highlighted the grant’s significance, stating, “Dubai’s position as a global art hub is largely due to its vibrant art scene and thriving galleries. Through this grant, we aim to raise the international profiles of our galleries and artists, contributing to the global discourse on contemporary art and promoting Dubai as a center for artistic excellence.”

William Lawrie of Lawrie Shabibi Gallery also praised the initiative, emphasizing that it is a vital step in strengthening Dubai’s role in the international art scene. “This grant supports our participation in global art fairs and helps us showcase our artists on an international level,” he said.

As part of Dubai’s ongoing efforts to foster creativity and innovation, the grant ensures that the city remains a key player in the global art industry. By offering financial aid and international exposure, Dubai Culture continues to strengthen the local art community while reinforcing the emirate’s position as a dynamic and evolving cultural hub.

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Inspiring Installations and Creative Tours

Accompanied by prominent figures from Dubai Culture and Alserkal Initiatives, Hala Badri explored an array of artworks. Highlights included ‘Forest Dancer and the Path to Pure Creation’ by Eness, a vibrant installation symbolising freedom, and ‘Bright Memories’ by Abdulla Alneyadi, which reflected UAE’s cultural traditions.

Other notable exhibits were ‘Unity: الوحدة is Plural’ by DIDI, emphasising planetary connections, and the interactive Camera Obscura by Fujifilm and Gulf Photo Plus, offering insights into the origins of photography. Children enjoyed The Playground, a fully crocheted installation.

Empowering Creativity in Dubai

Hala Badri praised the festival’s calibre, noting its role in igniting creativity and fostering talent. She emphasized the importance of such initiatives in strengthening Dubai’s cultural industries and creating a sustainable creative ecosystem that attracts global talent.

A Celebration of Art and Community

Quoz Arts Fest offered a rich blend of live music, visual arts, and culinary experiences, providing an inclusive platform for the community to connect with Dubai’s vibrant art scene.

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Katia Nounou Boueiz, the deputy chairman of Sotheby’s Middle East, shared her enthusiasm about the collaboration, emphasizing that it was designed to support the flourishing cultural scene in the UAE. “From the moment we opened our doors in the heart of the DIFC, our aim was to support the blossoming cultural ecosystem of the UAE, working side-by-side with the institutions and galleries who also make up the rich tapestry of the art scene here,” she said. This series of intimate exhibitions is expected to draw attention to artists from across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, showcasing their work to both local collectors and international audiences.

The first exhibition under The Gallery Collective initiative is already underway, with Zidoun-Bossuyt Gallery hosting Jewels, which opened on November 12 and will run until January 6. This exhibition features the vibrant and thought-provoking works of New York artist Khalif Tahir Thompson and American artist Summer Wheat. Thompson’s large, bold portraits explore themes of identity and cultural heritage, while Wheat’s textured paintings celebrate femininity and community through her unique materials and figurative compositions.

Following this, Tabari Artspace and The Third Line will collaborate on an exhibition titled Hot Spots, running from January 9 to March 10. This group exhibition will feature artists from across MENA who work in a wide range of mediums and techniques, further diversifying the art landscape in the region.

From March 12 to May 7, Lawrie Shabibi will present Form and Rhythm, an exhibition that will focus on geometric abstraction and traditional crafts. This show will feature renowned artists like Pakistani Hamra Abbas, Palestinian Dima Srouji, Iranian-German Timo Nasseri, and Lebanese Nabil Nahas, exploring how their work intersects through abstraction and cultural influences.

The collaboration between Sotheby’s and these UAE-based galleries is expected to bring more visibility to regional artists while fostering deeper appreciation for the cultural vibrancy of the UAE and its surrounding countries. With an added focus on public engagement, the project will also include a series of free talks and artist spotlights, giving visitors the chance to learn about the unique themes and creative practices that shape contemporary Middle Eastern art.

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Aimed at broadening access to limited-edition art, Editions offers a novel approach for younger collectors seeking personalized connections through art. Unlike traditional fairs focused on rare and high-priced pieces, this initiative makes art acquisition feel practical, approachable, and uniquely modern. Over 50 galleries, studios, and collectives are participating, displaying art ranging from prints, ceramics, and contemporary designs to paper-based works.

Highlighting Accessibility in Art

Pablo del Val, the visionary behind Editions and Art Dubai’s artistic director, emphasized how this new platform breaks traditional barriers in art. “Cities grow and mature, and as that happens, people’s needs evolve,” del Val remarked. His mission is to democratize limited-edition art and make it available to everyone, regardless of financial standing.

The fair’s format opens doors for novice collectors to immerse themselves in an approachable environment, fostering a new wave of art enthusiasts. Del Val elaborated, “With the introduction of the golden visa, a new wave of expats, and the younger generation moving from teens to young professionals, we saw an opportunity to make art more accessible—a way for newcomers to feel comfortable without feeling overwhelmed or intimidated.”

A New Way to Explore Art

The fair itself is designed to be inviting, akin to a “candy shop” experience for art lovers. Displays encourage visitors to wander, ask questions, and engage with the art in a relaxed setting. Del Val explained that this environment breaks down the intimidation factor often associated with art collecting: “It’s set up to be approachable for those who haven’t collected art before.”

Editions also prioritizes affordability, intentionally reducing entry costs to attract younger audiences. “Often people assume the price range is so high that they don’t bother asking,” said del Val, emphasizing the fair’s commitment to dispelling that myth and opening the art world to broader demographics.

A Return to Tangible Experiences

As Gen-Z continues to seek out meaningful, hands-on experiences in a tech-dominated era, Editions offers a timely alternative to the mass-produced digital content dominating social platforms. Del Val reflected on this dynamic, stating, “AI, while powerful, still needs a human touch, an artistic mind behind it. Art is an experience, a sensory interaction and AI cannot replicate that.”

The fair provides a space to reconnect with the tangible and the unique. Del Val noted that despite the prevalence of virtual experiences, physical interactions remain essential: “There’s a return to hands-on, material-focused work and a pushback against the purely digital pieces.”

Inspiring Emerging and Established Talent

Beyond expanding accessibility, Editions creates a platform for emerging artists to showcase their work alongside established creators. Del Val highlighted the importance of this blend: “We hope to nurture future collectors in Dubai, and making this world more accessible for them is the first step.” The mix of fresh and experienced talent reflects the fair’s intention to create a vibrant space for diverse perspectives and craftsmanship.

By bridging gaps in art appreciation and demystifying collection, Editions offers a distinct space where art becomes a personal journey. It aims to empower visitors—whether seasoned collectors or first-timers—to engage with art meaningfully and to make it their own.

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The new deadline for participation is now set for 31st October 2024. This extension aims to provide all Emirati and UAE & GCC-based artists and creatives—including retailers, culinary artists, performers, and workshop facilitators—with the opportunity to present their diverse creations at the festival.

Artists can submit works in a variety of disciplines, such as visual arts, paintings, sculptures, photography, design, murals, multimedia, and culinary arts.

The festival will also feature interactive workshops, musical performances, cinematic showcases, talks, and panel discussions.

Scheduled to take place from 31st January to 9th February 2025 in the Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, participants are encouraged to showcase pieces that embody their unique ideas, visions, and artistic methods, while also reflecting the vibrant local art scene.

Moreover, all submissions must incorporate environmentally friendly materials, and the works presented should be original creations that have not been previously exhibited or produced in other festivals or events.

The Sikka Art and Design Festival, part of the broader Dubai Art Season, serves as an innovative platform designed to unite various art forms and celebrate both emerging and established talents. This initiative is in line with Dubai’s cultural aspiration to be recognized as a global hub for culture, creativity, and artistic excellence.

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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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Almutawa, an Emirati-Kuwaiti historian who had been teaching Islamic intellectual history at the American University in Washington DC, relocated to the UAE in 2022 following the birth of her daughter. With over two decades of experience in the U.S., Almutawa sought to re-engage with the Gulf’s literary and artistic scene while providing her daughter with proximity to family.

Initially, Almutawa envisioned Kutubna as a traditional bookshop focused on Gulf literature, a way to explore works from the region that were not readily available abroad.

However, as she pursued the necessary permits, she realized that the scope of her project would require a more formal cultural centre license to host events such as author readings and workshops.

Despite her initial hesitation about the cultural centre label, fearing it might seem off-putting, Almutawa’s concerns were quickly dispelled. “People were driving from all over the UAE,” she recalls. “They had ideas for the centre, and they wanted to help. So from the beginning, the place was really built by volunteers and people who really believe in having a community space for artists and writers.”

Kutubna’s charm lies in its eclectic setup, created on a shoestring budget. “There was no budget to start with,” Almutawa admits. “It was completely bare minimum, not even.” Resourcefulness turned discarded materials from other shops into functional elements of the centre, contributing to its unique character.

Since its soft launch last year, the centre has hosted prominent local scholars, including Ahmed Al Maazmi and Abdulla Galadari, who led engaging discussions on historical manuscripts and comparative texts. These events have strengthened Almutawa’s commitment to the centre.

Now, with its official opening marked by the exhibition One Hundred Years of Painting: Arab Art from 1916 to 2017, Kutubna highlights works from two notable collections in Dubai. This showcase includes pieces from influential artists such as Saliba Douaihy, whose early and later works illustrate his stylistic evolution, and other renowned figures like Farid Aouad and Najat Makki.

Almutawa expresses how organizing the exhibition deepened her appreciation for Arab art and hopes it will inspire visitors in the same way. “I didn’t know very much about these pieces or these artists,” she reflects. “Over time, I started to learn and understand.”

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Investment in Arts and Culture

The UAE has made substantial investments in arts and culture, signalling its commitment to becoming a cultural epicentre and global hub. Major cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are home to world-class museums, galleries, and cultural institutions. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, for example, has put the UAE on the global map, offering a diverse collection of art from around the world.

Architectural Marvels as a global hub

The UAE’s skyline is adorned with iconic architectural masterpieces. Structures like the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and the futuristic design of the Museum of the Future showcase the UAE’s architectural prowess. These landmarks not only attract tourists but also symbolize the country’s blend of tradition and modernity.

Hosting International Events: UAE’s efforts to become a cultural hub

The UAE hosts numerous international cultural events, further cementing its role as a global cultural hub. Art Dubai and the Abu Dhabi Art Fair attract artists, collectors, and enthusiasts from around the world. These events provide a platform for cultural exchange and showcase the UAE’s vibrant art scene.

Promoting Cultural Diplomacy

Cultural diplomacy is a cornerstone of the UAE’s strategy to enhance its global influence. Through partnerships and cultural exchanges, the UAE fosters international cooperation and understanding. Initiatives like the UAE-France Cultural Dialogue illustrate the country’s commitment to building strong cultural ties.

Supporting Local Talent

The UAE is also nurturing local talent, providing platforms for Emirati artists and creators to shine on the global stage. Government programs and private sector initiatives support emerging artists, helping them gain international recognition. This focus on local talent enriches the UAE’s cultural landscape and promotes cultural diversity.

Embracing Digital Innovation

In the digital age, the UAE is leveraging technology to expand its cultural reach. Virtual exhibitions, digital art platforms, and the growing market for NFTs (Non-Fungible Tokens) are areas where the UAE is making significant strides. These innovations ensure that the UAE remains at the forefront of the global cultural scene.

The UAE’s efforts to become a global cultural hub are evident in its investment in arts and culture, architectural innovations, international events, and cultural diplomacy. By embracing both tradition and modernity and by supporting local and international talent, the UAE is carving out a prominent place in the global cultural landscape. As these initiatives continue to flourish, the UAE’s influence as a cultural powerhouse is set to grow, enriching both its own society and the world at large.

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Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 6 May 2024: This past weekend, World Art Dubai (WAD) drew in thousands of art enthusiasts and creatives to the Dubai World Trade Centre for its landmark 10^th edition, held in collaboration with Dubai Culture.

Immersive Art Experiences and Global Artistic Diversity at WAD

Across the four days of the WAD 2024, visitors of every age immersed themselves in a diverse range of art experiences, including interactive art installations, captivating live performances, insightful art discussions, and enriching workshops. The expansive programme featured contemporary artworks from over 10,000 pieces exhibited by 400 galleries and individual artists from 65 nations. From paintings and sculptures to live performances, printmaking, photography and digital art, the fair presented a vibrant tapestry of artistic expression, catering to the tastes of art enthusiasts of all generations.

Programmes of awards and initiatives concluded on the event’s final day, bringing accolades and opportunities for participating artists.

Mentorship Opportunity for Young Artists

For the anniversary edition, WAD was proud to launch the Art Mentorship Programme. This ground-breaking initiative highlighted a decade-long dedication to nurturing emerging talent and enriching the UAE’s art landscape. The programme provided personalised mentorship from two respected UAE artists: Dr. Najat Makki and Rashid Al Mulla. These accomplished artists mentored aspiring Emirati art students live during the exhibition, guiding them through various artistic styles and techniques. The Art Mentorship Programme served as a vital bridge between emerging talents and the professional art world. Indeed, it offered a platform for creative exchange and professional growth.

Award Winners Receive Exhibition Space

World Art Dubai concluded the prestigious WAD Awards Ceremony, honoring exceptional artists and galleries. In its 6th edition, the WAD Emerging Artists Prize, partnered with Rove Hotels and themed their collaboration ‘Cultural Crossroads.’ It put the spotlight on emerging talents from the region and beyond. Moreover, this provided them with a unique platform to showcase their skills and advance their careers. Azaide Robin won the grand prize, entitling them to an exclusive opportunity to exhibit their artwork at World Art Dubai 2025. As a winner, they will have their own complimentary space next year. The Emerging Artists Prize included a People’s Choice Award category, and Manoj Zinzuwadia emerged as the winner. This award came with a cash prize of AED 5,000. Rove Hotels also treated both winning artists to a complimentary stay at one of its properties in Dubai.

Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown Award selected Rikka Gallery and the artist Ryoten Ogata from Japan as the winners of an exhibition space within the arts-focused hotel.

Additionally, the WAD 2024 named David Learman, a UK national based in the UAE, as the Best Photographer.

Young Artists Lead the Way Towards 2025

In the WAD Future Artists Competition, 12 schools from across the UAE submitted artworks. The artworks were presented under the theme of ‘Expressions of Emotions’. Repton School received the Grand Award Primary, while GEMS Millenium School was named the Runner-Up Primary. Nord Anglia School secured the Grand Award Secondary, with Gems Legacy School recognized as the Runner-Up Secondary.

Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, Dubai World Trade Centre, said: “World Art Dubai 2024 was an incredible celebration of creativity and diversity, bringing together artists and enthusiasts from around the world. I am particularly delighted with the success of the Art Mentorship Programme, which has played a crucial role in nurturing emerging Emirati talent and enriching our art landscape. As we look ahead, we are excited about the new plans we have in store for 2025, building upon the foundation laid this year.”

Asma congratulated all WAD Award winners and thanked partners and exhibitors for their contributions, anticipating another successful event next year.

Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown, the first certified boutique hotel in the United Arab Emirates, proudly serves as the fair’s Art Hotel Partner. In addition, Al Hathboor Group is the fair’s Artistic Sponsor.

WAD featured over 10,000 artworks from 400 galleries and solo artists from 65 countries. The fair will return to the Dubai World Trade Centre in 2025. For more information, please visit World Art Dubai’s website at www.worldartdubai.com.

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Luqman’s artwork transcends traditional boundaries in both meaning and material. He skilfully merges computer software with metal, wood, and other common materials, creating art that goes beyond the limitations of the frame. His pieces engage and provoke viewers, inviting them to explore new dimensions and perspectives. With a master’s degree in Cultural and Creative Industries (MCCI), Luqman’s contributions to the Emirati art scene extend beyond his own artistic practice. He has become an advocate for the development of other artists in the UAE, establishing initiatives to promote art within the country. Leveraging his extensive knowledge and network in the Emirati art scene, Luqman has become a trusted advisor and consultant for various projects and activities. Luqman has represented the UAE as a member of numerous delegations to international art events, showcasing the talent and creativity of Emirati artists on the global stage. He has also served as a public speaker, passionately promoting and advancing art and artists in the UAE. Through seminars and workshops conducted in schools, colleges, and universities nationally and internationally, he shares his expertise and experiences, inspiring the next generation of artists. In addition to his artistic endeavours, Luqman has worked with prominent clients and organizations, including ADNOC, Samsung, HP, Abu Dhabi Media, Silicon Graphics, Mubadala, The Abu Dhabi Music and Arts Foundation (ADMAF), Ajman Tourism, Flash Events, the Royal Family, Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism (DCT), Dubai Design District (D3), Dubai Culture, and Miral.

Jalal Luqman’s ground-breaking contributions to the UAE’s art scene, from introducing digital art to his innovative mixed media approach, have solidified his position as a respected and influential artist. His commitment to supporting and nurturing the growth of other artists, along with his extensive involvement in promoting art in the UAE, demonstrates his dedication to fostering a vibrant and thriving artistic community. Through his artwork, advocacy, and collaborations, Luqman continues to shape and enrich the cultural landscape of the UAE.

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