The Flourishing Contemporary Art Scene in the UAE

The contemporary art scene in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is thriving, with a dynamic framework of events and exhibitions that highlight the region’s artistic vibrancy. Central to this artistic narrative is Art Dubai, taking place from April 16 to April 20, 2025. This event serves as a focal point of the spring’s art activities, complemented by the Sharjah Biennial (February 6–June 15, 2025) and the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial (November 15, 2024–April 30, 2025). The bustling atmosphere in the UAE this month was palpable, alive with the energy of art dealers, curators, critics, and collectors converging to celebrate creativity.

Sharjah Biennial: “To Carry”

The 16th edition of the Sharjah Biennial features over 190 participants, handpicked by a team of five curators. This year’s title, “to carry,” encourages artists to respond to an expansive and inclusive prompt. The term embodies an awareness of our vulnerabilities within unfamiliar spaces whilst maintaining a sense of mindfulness toward our cultural backgrounds. It acts as a bridge connecting various temporalities, intertwining personal experience with aspirational futures. This intersectionality embraces intergenerational narratives and the diverse forms of inheritance that shape artistic interpretation.

Art Dubai: A Global Showcase

Founded in 2007, Art Dubai remains a significant player on the art fair circuit, showcasing over 120 galleries from 65 cities across the globe. Taking place at the opulent Madinat Jumeirah, an illusion of an Arabian mini-city, the fair is meticulously curated into distinct sections: Modern, Contemporary, Digital, and Bawwaba (which translates to “gateway” in Arabic). It features more than 20 exhibitors from Dubai, blending local talent with international artistry.

Pablo del Val, Art Dubai’s Artistic Director, emphasizes that Dubai is at the epicenter of the Middle East’s art market, noting the city’s growth and evolution. "Our 2025 galleries reflect the region’s energies and diverse communities,” he remarked, highlighting the exhibition’s commitment to showcasing a rich tapestry of artistic perspectives. Art Dubai not only celebrates established artists but also elevates emerging voices, ensuring the fair remains a breeding ground for artistic discovery.

Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial: “Public Matter”

The inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, titled “Public Matter,” dives into the evolving concept of public spaces in the city. By focusing on four pivotal themes—environment, community, urbanity, and indigeneity—this biennial showcases the work of over 70 artists. Audiences can expect to encounter large-scale installations and striking sculptures designed to provoke dialogue around how environmental factors influence gathering spots and community interactions.

This biennial is particularly significant as it addresses the remarkable tension between modern urban development and the preservation of indigenous traditions. As Abu Dhabi embraces contemporary growth and economic diversification, the challenge remains to uphold traditional values amidst this rapid transformation. The event not only highlights these challenges but also invites public engagement through a diverse program encouraging attendees to explore and articulate their views about public space.

Discoveries from Art Events

Art & Object’s journey to Art Dubai and the surrounding biennials aimed to uncover contemporary artworks that resonate with our shared moment. The works on display reveal a rich narrative that speaks to the complexities and interconnectedness of our experiences. From intimate reflective pieces to grand public installations, the art emerging from the UAE in 2025 eloquently captures the dialogue between tradition and modernity, local and global influences, as well as vulnerability and strength.

As Dubai continues to position itself as a leading hub for contemporary art, the UAE art scene stands as a testament to the power of creativity in shaping cultural conversations. With events like Art Dubai, the Sharjah Biennial, and the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, the region is not just participating in the global art dialogue but is actively defining it.