Art Dubai 2025: A Vibrant Showcase of Creativity and Innovation
Art Dubai, the premier platform for art from the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia, is gearing up for its 2025 edition, set to take place from April 18 to 20 at the stunning Madinat Jumeirah. With invitation-only previews on April 16 and 17, this year promises to be an exciting celebration of contemporary art, featuring a diverse array of programming and partnerships that reflect the dynamic art scene of the region.
New Partnerships and Performances
One of the most anticipated highlights of Art Dubai 2025 is the introduction of a new multi-year co-commissioning partnership between Art Dubai and Alserkal Avenue. This collaboration will kick off with a series of performances and site-specific interventions by acclaimed Mexican artist Héctor Zamora. Zamora’s work is known for its engaging exploration of architectural spaces and cultural narratives, making his contributions to Art Dubai a must-see for attendees.
Additionally, a major new digital commission by leading Emirati artist Mohammed Kazem will be presented by Julius Baer. Kazem’s work often delves into the complexities of identity and place, and this commission is expected to offer a thought-provoking experience that resonates with the evolving narrative of Dubai as a global city.
Experiential Commissions and Installations
Art Dubai 2025 will also feature a series of experiential commissions and installations that examine the transformation of nature through technology and human experience. Notable artists such as Ania Soliman and Total Arts at the Courtyard will present site-specific works that invite viewers to reflect on the intricate relationship between humanity and the environment. Soliman’s monumental installation, titled "Kahrabaa," explores the connections between technology, nature, and memory, while Total Arts will transform found objects from the UAE’s landscapes into an imagined terrain, prompting discussions on ecological fragility.
Digital Innovations at Art Dubai Digital
The digital realm will take center stage at Art Dubai Digital, where a series of new site-specific digital installations will debut. Artists such as Ouchhh Studio, Breakfast, Jacopo Di Cera, and Hybrid Xperience will showcase innovative works that blend art and technology. Ouchhh Studio’s "MotherEarth," an AI-driven data sculpture, will transform raw climate data into vivid sensory experiences, while Breakfast’s "Carbon Wake" will present a kinetic installation that visualizes real-time energy data from cities worldwide. These installations aim to engage audiences in critical conversations about climate change and sustainability.
Engaging the Next Generation
Art Dubai’s commitment to cultural education is exemplified by the A.R.M. Holding Children’s Programme, which has reached over 30,000 children since its inception in 2021. The fifth edition of this initiative will feature a collaboration between renowned Nigerian artist Peju Alatise and Emirati artist Alia Hussain Lootah. Their co-produced program will celebrate local ecosystems and the cultural significance of water in the UAE, guiding children to explore their connection with this vital resource through creative applications in art.
Global Art Forum and Digital Summit
Art Dubai’s flagship transdisciplinary summit, the Global Art Forum, will return with the theme "The New New Normal," commissioned by Shumon Basar and curated by Y7. This year’s forum will delve into how cultures and economies are transforming chaos into progress, featuring prominent speakers such as architect Rem Koolhaas and artist Lawrence Abu Hamdan.
In addition, the second edition of the Digital Summit, themed "After the Technological Sublime," will gather international and local industry leaders to discuss how art and technology can address pressing environmental, social, and political challenges. These discussions will provide valuable insights into the evolving landscape of contemporary art and its role in society.
A Diverse Gallery Program
Art Dubai 2025 will showcase over 120 exhibitors, with dedicated sections curated by experts like Magalí Arriola and Nada Shabout for Art Dubai Modern, and Gonzalo Herrero Delicado for Art Dubai Digital. This diverse gallery program ensures a rich tapestry of artistic expression, highlighting both established and emerging talents from the region and beyond.
Conversations and Collaborations
Art Dubai will also feature a series of engaging talks, including the Art Dubai Collector Talks and Modern Talks, which explore cultural affinities between West Asia, North Africa, and Latin America. These discussions, presented in partnership with the Dubai Collection, aim to foster dialogue and collaboration among collectors and artists alike.
Patronage and Partnerships
Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Art Dubai continues to thrive as a vital cultural event. The fair is held in partnership with A.R.M. Holding and is sponsored by Julius Baer, with Piaget serving as the exclusive Watch and Jewellery partner. The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority is the strategic partner, ensuring that Art Dubai remains a cornerstone of the UAE’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Art Dubai 2025 promises to be an extraordinary celebration of creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange, inviting art enthusiasts, collectors, and the general public to engage with the transformative power of art in our contemporary world.
