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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Dubai Culture: Boosting Global Presence for Dubai’s Art Scene

Managed by Art Dubai Group, the grant underscores Dubai’s commitment to expanding its art scene internationally. It provides financial support to galleries that maintain a full-time presence in Dubai, represent Emirati artists or those who have lived in the UAE for at least three years, and actively participate in exhibitions beyond their gallery space. Eligible galleries can apply for up to 50% funding for an international art fair booth, depending on the percentage of space allocated to Emirati or UAE-based artists.

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, highlighted the grant’s importance, stating: “Dubai’s position as a global art hub is largely attributed to its thriving art scene, which is centred around the city’s art galleries. Through this grant, we aim to elevate our artists on an international platform while fostering cultural exchange and collaboration.”

William Lawrie of Lawrie Shabibi gallery also praised the initiative, noting that it provides essential support for local talent. He also emphasized that the grant will help galleries expand their reach, promote artists globally, and contribute to Dubai’s evolving cultural landscape.

Encouraging Growth and Cultural Exchange

Beyond financial assistance, the grant seeks to establish Dubai as a permanent fixture in the international art world. By supporting emerging and established artists, the initiative fosters a sustainable creative ecosystem, benefiting complementary sectors and reinforcing Dubai’s role as a center for artistic excellence.

Applications for the grant are now open. Interested galleries can visit Art Dubai’s official website or contact the Art Dubai team at pietro@artdubai.ae for further details.

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Cultural Experiences Across Museums and Libraries

Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, will host Hag Al Leila-themed activities in collaboration with Kinder from 14 to 16 February. Children dressed in traditional attire will embark on ‘Hag Al Leila Trails’ through Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, collecting sweets, singing folk songs, and engaging in creative workshops. Inspired by Emirati traditions, the workshops will feature art installations reflecting the iconic Hag Al Leila bag and local delicacies.

Kinder will also introduce a digital element, allowing children to design their own Ramadan characters on iPads, which will be displayed on a large screen. To enhance the festive spirit, 400 kilogrammes of Kinder chocolate will be distributed. Visitors will also have access to the museum’s exhibitions, offering deeper insights into Dubai’s cultural heritage.

Etihad Museum will host an immersive programme on 15 and 16 February, bringing Emirati customs to life. ‘Dukkan Al-Mathaf’ will recreate a nostalgic Emirati grocery store, featuring classic sweets. The Basma Choir will perform traditional Hag Al Leila songs alongside Arabic and Khaleeji classics. The event will also include workshops, entertainment sessions, and film screenings, all centered around themes of heritage and belonging.

The Kutubna Cultural Center will present a storytelling session featuring Emirati folktales that highlight unity and cultural harmony. Guests can enjoy traditional games and view ‘Eternal Gateways,’ an art installation by Abdulla Al Neyadi inspired by old Emirati doors. The museum will also feature dedicated spaces for visitors to sample local cuisine, while Emirati creatives will have the opportunity to showcase and promote their work.

Extending the Celebrations Across Dubai

Dubai Public Library branches will host school visits, offering activities such as traditional games, henna stations, and a ‘Dukkan Al-Taybeen’ (Old School Grocery). Visitors can also explore ‘Raa’i Al Sambosa’ (Samosa Corner), ‘Al Khabbazat’ (Traditional Bakery Corner), and the ‘Kharareef Yadoh’ (Grandmother’s Tales) storytelling session. Additionally, an Emirati dialect workshop will provide deeper cultural engagement.

The celebrations will conclude on 19 February at the Dubai Club for People of Determination. This event will feature interactive workshops, including bracelet-making, tote bag painting, and a themed drawing competition, all led by expert facilitators.

Through these diverse activities, Dubai Culture continues to safeguard Emirati traditions, ensuring they remain an essential part of the city’s cultural identity for generations to come.

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Hands-On Creativity for Children

Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children presents Bait Al Khazaf, a dedicated space for pottery and ceramics. Designed to inspire young artists, the workshops include pottery-making, painting, and performing arts. Children can shape clay on a wheel, decorate candles, and design costumes while learning from theatre experts. The Centre for Musical Arts leads music sessions, and families can participate in a collaborative mural.

Ceramic Art Exhibition

Curated by Kamal Al Zoubi, Head of the Pottery Department at Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, Bait Al Khazaf features works by 55 Emirati and UAE-based ceramicists. Highlights include:

• Communication and Connection by Emirati artist Shamsa Juma, reflecting her search for perfection.
• Ibahar (Sailing) by Abdulla Al Hammadi, inspired by pearl diving.
• Calligraphy Mural by Pakistani artist Adeel Umar.
• Cultural Diffusion by Australian artist Alex Rawson, exploring cross-cultural exchange.
• Oryx the Survivor by Sudanese artist Amani Badur, symbolizing resilience.

The People of Determination Exhibition showcases inspiring works by artists with disabilities, highlighting their creativity and perseverance.

Literature and Visual Arts

Dubai Public Library’s School of Life initiative offers workshops such as:

• Ruq’ah Calligraphy by Mohammed Al Tamimi.
• Doors and Wooden Carvings by Dr Saeed Abdullah Al Wail, exploring Emirati craftsmanship.
• Sikka Folktales by Magdy ElKafrawy, bringing local stories to life on canvas.

Theatre and Folktales

The World Stage Design House (House 203) hosts theatre workshops, including:

• Puppet Workshop by Jacqui George, where children create shadow puppets.
• Lighting Workshop by Youmna Aboelella, teaching stage lighting techniques.
• Costume Design by Salma Lakharouti, using recycled materials.

At Masterpieces House – House of Folklore Tales (House 355), students from the Ministry of Education’s 2024 summer camp present artworks inspired by Kharareef (local folktales), blending tradition with modern creativity.

Festival Partners

The Sikka Art & Design Festival is organized in collaboration with Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development.

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Running until 9 February, the festival features over 450 workshops and talks covering arts, design, architecture, visual storytelling, and traditional crafts. The event supports the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy, ensuring a rich cultural experience for attendees. The festival’s sessions are led by industry experts and artists, offering valuable insights and practical training. Al Shindagha Museum, the UAE’s largest heritage museum, has been transformed into a dynamic hub for creativity.

Sikka Art & Design Festival : Hands-On Artistic Workshops

The festival offers workshops tailored to various creative disciplines. Emerging City is hosting Gypsum Art, where participants explore gypsum carving techniques. The Traditional Jewellery House presents Jewellery Making: Marriyah (Necklace), providing hands-on experience in crafting traditional ornaments.

Visitors at the People and Faith House can join Henna Stencil and Prayer Bead Crafting sessions. The Traditional Crafts House introduces Spindle, a workshop on hand-weaving using traditional tools.

At House 355 – Masterpieces, creativity takes center stage with Graffiti Art: Express Yourself with Spray Paint, where participants learn graffiti fundamentals from a professional artist. House 341 – Realiity House offers Doodles & AI, transforming simple sketches into digital art using artificial intelligence. The Glitch Art session explores creative distortions inspired by digital effects.

Workshops at House 314 by Sxill Lab include Handmade Tile Making and Cheese Board Design. Meanwhile, House 326 – Sikka Platform presents sustainability-focused sessions such as Sustainability Now: Eco-Friendly Solutions and Perfume Making for Adults. At House 15, Tashkeel hosts modern printing workshops like Hand Printing on Bags and Riso Printing.

Sikka Art & Design Festival : Music, Writing, and Storytelling

At House 196 – Urban House by The Workshop DXB, singer Shilpa Ananth leads Unlocking Authenticity: The Psychology of Songwriting. The session delves into emotional and experiential influences on songwriting, helping participants refine their music composition skills.

The Merin Pavilion hosts Letters to the City: Writing Public Spaces, where attendees reflect on meaningful locations in Dubai by writing personalized messages dedicated to them.

Inspiring Talks and Creative Discussions

The festival includes Sikka Speaks, a dedicated space featuring leading creatives discussing industry trends. Highlights include:

• Creative Minds: Art Therapy for Young Explorers – Art therapist Caline Boghos guides children through therapeutic practices and imaginative play.
• Immersive Magic: Where Art, Music, and Technology Transform Experiences – A panel featuring Anna Lebedeva, Jalal Luqman, Maryam Al Obeidli, Denis Rosiev, Evgenia Romanidi, and Nicholas Mann, moderated by Elias Attallah.
• Decoding Humour: The Art of Multicultural Comedy in Dubai – Featuring comedians Shadi Jad and Saniya Abbas, moderated by Liz Baines.
• Artistic Intervention in Satwa: Tracing Urban Nostalgia – A discussion led by Khalil Abdulwahid and Karim Jabbari.
• Go Global! International Opportunities & Strategies for Dubai-Based Artists – Moderated by Sophie Mayuko, featuring Sanaz Askari, Giuseppe Moscatello, and Behrang Samadzadkan.

A Collaborative Effort

The festival is organized in partnership with Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development. This collaborative effort ensures a world-class platform for artists, designers, and cultural enthusiasts.

With an extensive lineup of workshops, talks, and exhibitions, Sikka Art & Design Festival 2025 continues to establish Dubai as a leading creative and cultural hub.

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The ‘House of Saffron’

This year’s edition introduces the ‘House of Saffron’ (House 416), a dedicated space highlighting seven saffron-inspired works. Among them, Fatima Alsuwaidi’s An Exploration Through Poetry and Traditions examines the cultural significance of saffron, while Saffron’s Prints by Mariam Bayat explores its relationship with nature. Omar Al Othman’s documentary Saffron in UAE delves into its heritage through interviews with a perfumer, a saffron vendor, and a poet.

A collective from One Third Studio—Amna Bin Bishr, Duna Al Ajlan, and Dania Al Ajlan—presents a saffron-inspired tableware collection. Meanwhile, Roudhah Al Mazrouei’s Terrain captures a UAE village landscape, and Roudha Bu Abdulla’s Saffron-Infused Emirati Dishes illustrates six traditional recipes featuring saffron. Taqwa Alnaqbi showcases Preserved Saffron, further emphasizing the spice’s cultural role.

Culinary and Musical Experiences

Visitors can enjoy saffron-inspired dishes from nine renowned chefs, including Maitha Warshaw, Arwa Lootah, and Halima Bahlooq, at the ‘Supper Club,’ where tableware and furniture reflect the warmth of the saffron flower. Additionally, 51 food stalls, such as Farmers, Midori, and Wakame, will offer a variety of cuisines.

The festival also includes over 100 live music performances featuring artists like Maryam Omran Sajwani, Rashid Waleed Al Marzouqi, and Kamal Musallam. Notable bands such as The One-Man Band, Nafas, and The Fizz Group will take the stage. Six orchestral performances will feature the Firdaus Orchestra led by A.R. Rahman, alongside ensembles like the Emirates Youth Symphony Orchestra and the UAE Philharmonic Orchestra by ToDA.

Art Installations and Cultural Highlights

Sikka showcases Dubai’s history through Wind Canvas, a project featuring three collaborative works inspired by maritime trade. Artists Khawla Darwish and Rashid Al Mulla created the first sail, drawing from Dubai’s Fish Roundabout, while Ghada Mehdi and German Fernandez envisioned a journey of memories. Hessa Al Awadhi and Maryam Al Ramsi crafted the third sail, merging digital and traditional art to reflect Al Shindagha’s commercial legacy.

Festival-goers can also experience Creatives on Wheels, a shadow puppetry performance by Boubaker Boukhari, Lina Younes, and Samer Arzouni. The story, inspired by Dubai Creek, follows a crocodile and a bird in a tale of unity, performed in Arabic with live music.

Supporting Local Creativity

Sikka Art 2025 features more than 50 retail stores, including From The Arabs, which preserves cultural heritage through fragrances, and Tropicfeel, a sustainable fashion brand. Other notable stores include Atuyah Studios, Creams Botanics, and Yello for Sustainable Abayas, the region’s first circular, zero-waste abaya brand.

The Ahlan W Sahlan Creative Studio will present innovative designs from brands like Clique, Elain Knit, and The Noor Creative. The festival runs until 9 February and is supported by Dubai Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Municipality, Dubai Police, Dubai Civil Defence, and the Emirates Council for Rural Development.

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Murals Capturing Tradition, Identity, and Modernity

Among the 13 striking murals, notable works include:

• ‘A Heritage of Night’ by Eman Alrashdi, merging Emirati identity with a Van Gogh-inspired night sky.
• ‘Child’s Play’ by Perryhan El-Ashmawi, portraying childhood joy and creativity.
• ‘Rooted Connections’ by Karim Jabbari, blending Arabic calligraphy and poetry.
• ‘Dream Big’ by Noé Peiró, symbolizing Dubai’s rise from a fishing village to a global city.

Other murals explore urban life, nature, and cultural heritage, showcasing the depth of talent from regional and international artists.

Innovative Sculptures and Installations

Over 40+ installations redefine the landscape, including:

• ‘Shells’ by Dr Mohamed Yousif, depicting Dubai’s coastal history through stone carving.
• ‘Dubai Heart’ by Azza Al Qubaisi, exploring the UAE’s traditions and identity.
• ‘Starry Sky in Dubai’ by Liu Yang, a dynamic light sculpture inspired by celestial movements.
• ‘Moon’ by Mohamed Sahnoun, a calligraphy-adorned marble piece that shifts between full and crescent moon perspectives.

Interactive and Sustainable Art

Artworks like ‘Make-A-Friend’ by Hend Almurid, an installation allowing visitors to build their own sculptures, and ‘Renewal’ by Studio Thirteen X Nordic Homeworx, made from recycled wood, highlight the festival’s focus on community engagement and sustainability.

A Collaborative Effort

The festival is supported by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai Police, Dubai Municipality, and Dubai Civil Defence, ensuring a well-curated cultural experience.

With immersive art, heritage-inspired creations, and futuristic installations, Sikka 2025 cements Dubai’s position as a thriving hub for artistic innovation and cultural storytelling.

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A Vision for the Future: Kengo Kuma and Marina Abramović Join the Project

As part of this ambitious transformation, the estate will feature new pavilions designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, whose work is known for its harmonious integration of nature and architecture. These additions aim to complement Barragán’s signature use of light, color, and spatial harmony, ensuring that the site remains a beacon of architectural excellence.

Adding to the excitement, the legendary performance artist Marina Abramović will present a site-specific intervention ahead of the grand reopening. This new work is expected to push the boundaries of performance art, aligning with Barragán’s own philosophical exploration of space, silence, and emotional impact in architecture.

A Space for Creativity, Engagement, and Architectural Innovation

The reimagined Cuadra San Cristóbal will house a range of facilities aimed at fostering cultural dialogue and artistic exploration, including:

• Galleries showcasing Barragán’s work and contemporary exhibitions
• A podcast studio and library dedicated to architectural and artistic research
• Event spaces for discussions, workshops, and performances

The foundation envisions the estate as a living archive of Barragán’s contributions, ensuring that his influence on global architecture continues to inspire new generations of designers, artists, and scholars.

Barragán’s Enduring Legacy in Mexico City

Beyond Cuadra San Cristóbal, Barragán’s Mexico City home, now a public museum, remains one of the most significant architectural landmarks in Latin America. Recognized as the only individual building in the region to be added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List, it attracts a growing audience of design enthusiasts and cultural tourists.

Barragán’s expressive use of color, water elements, and natural materials distinguished his approach from the stark minimalism of Western modernism, cementing his role in shaping a uniquely Mexican Modernist aesthetic. His upcoming cultural center at Cuadra San Cristóbal will further elevate his legacy, ensuring that his visionary work continues to inspire innovation.

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Bringing Van Gogh’s Vision to LEGO

LEGO has unveiled its latest artistic creation, the LEGO Art Vincent van Gogh – Sunflowers set, developed in partnership with the Van Gogh Museum in Amsterdam. This 2,615-piece collector’s item transforms Van Gogh’s 1889 masterpiece into a three-dimensional LEGO format, offering art enthusiasts and builders an immersive experience.

The set includes:

• Adjustable petals to recreate Van Gogh’s signature brushstrokes.
• A removable frame for display versatility.
• A tile featuring Van Gogh’s signature, adding an authentic touch.

Designed to capture the painting’s three radiant shades of yellow and dynamic light and shadow effects, this release pays homage to one of the world’s most famous still-life artworks.

An Interactive Experience for Collectors

To enhance the building process, LEGO has introduced an exclusive podcast, available from March 1, 2025, featuring insights from LEGO Designer Stijn Oom and Van Gogh Museum Senior Curator Nienke Bakker. The podcast will provide historical context and behind-the-scenes details on the creation of this set.

In celebration of the launch, LEGO has also crafted two life-sized brick-built replicas of Sunflowers, which will be permanently displayed at the LEGO Store in Amsterdam and the Van Gogh Museum. Additionally, fans will have the opportunity to meet Stijn Oom, who will be signing sets at:

• LEGO Store Amsterdam – March 1, 2025
• LEGO Store Marseille – March 2, 2025

Pre-Orders and Pricing Details

The LEGO Art Vincent van Gogh – Sunflowers set is available for pre-order from January 28, 2025, ahead of its official launch on March 1, 2025. The set is priced at $199.99 USD, making it a must-have for LEGO collectors and art lovers alike. The set also includes intricate texturing techniques to mimic Van Gogh’s expressive brushwork, offering builders a deeper connection to the masterpiece.

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Global Participation and New Commissions

Over 30 international institutions from across the globe are taking part in the Biennale, including from countries such as Denmark, Egypt, France, India, Indonesia, Italy, Kuwait, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom. The exhibition features the work of more than 30 artists, with 29 new commissions that are created in dialogue with historical objects on display. These works emphasize the ongoing relevance and evolution of Islamic art in contemporary contexts.

The event offers visitors a unique opportunity to view treasured artifacts and artworks from sacred sites in Makkah and Madinah, with the most notable being the Kiswah— the cloth that covers the Holy Kaaba, which is on display for the first time outside of Makkah. This rare display marks a significant cultural moment, allowing visitors to witness an iconic symbol of Islamic heritage in person.

Thematic Exploration and Artistic Direction

The title And All That Is In Between draws inspiration from a Quranic verse that celebrates the majesty of God’s creation. The exhibition’s curators, including Artistic Directors Julian Raby, Amin Jaffer, and Abdul Rahman Azzam, along with Saudi curator Muhannad Shono, have conceptualized the Biennale to showcase how Islamic faith and culture have been interpreted through art across the centuries, reflecting the evolving expressions of human connection with the divine.

The exhibition spans five halls and outdoor spaces, featuring over 500 objects and artworks, including significant loans from prestigious institutions such as the Louvre (Paris), Victoria and Albert Museum (London), Museum of Islamic Art (Doha), and the Ahmed Baba Institute of Higher Learning (Timbuktu). This global collaboration enables a broader perspective on Islamic arts and opens new channels for cultural exchange.

Innovative Design and Public Programs

This year’s Biennale also celebrates innovative architecture, with a structure inspired by regional weaving traditions, designed by EAST Architecture Studio. The winning design for the AlMusalla Prize incorporates sustainable materials, including waste from local date palm trees, demonstrating the intersection of art, culture, and environmental consciousness.

In addition to the exhibition, the Biennale offers a range of public programs, including workshops, talks, symposia, and community initiatives that engage both children and adults. Notable programs include Biennale After School and Biennale After Work, which provide creative outlets through hands-on art activities. The Turuq: The Many Ways of Food symposium explores the culinary diversity of the Arab world, further enriching the cultural experience.

In a statement, Artistic Director Julian Raby emphasized the significance of the Biennale, stating: “This Biennale represents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of faith, creativity, and culture, through the lens of Islamic art. It is a celebration of how these concepts are continually reinterpreted across cultures and generations.”

The 2025 Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah is not just an exhibition; it is an immersive journey into the rich and diverse world of Islamic culture, offering both historical insight and contemporary reflections. With its global reach and interactive programs, the Biennale stands as a testament to the enduring power of art in bridging cultures and fostering dialogue.

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