Visual Arts
ABU DHABI ART (19-23 November 2025)
The annual Abu Dhabi Art fair each November is the culmination of the year-round visual arts programme. The fair brings together a number of local and international galleries offering artworks for sale which are shown alongside exhibitions, artist commissions and installations both at the fair and across the emirate.
Time: 2:00 – 9:00 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
Entry: Free, Registration Required
For more details, please visit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/events/abu-dhabi-art-2025
ART HERE 2025 (Until 28 December 2025)
‘Art Here 2025’ at Louvre Abu Dhabi is the fifth edition of a dynamic exhibition showcasing contemporary artists based in the GCC, Japan, and MENA connected to the GCC. Focusing on sculpture and installations designed for outdoor spaces, the exhibition provides a central platform for diverse artistic expressions, supported in collaboration with Richard Mille. Running from October to December 2025, it highlights innovative practices contributing to a universal cultural dialogue.
Time: Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry: 6:00 PM)
Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM (last entry: 8:00 PM)
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
For more details, please visit: https://www.louvreabudhabi.ae/en/exhibitions/art-here-2025
NATIVE: PLANTS IN THE UAE (Until 31 December 2025)
The ‘Native’ exhibition explores the life conditions of each plant indigenous to the UAE’s landscape, examining the surrounding atmosphere that influences its growth and gives it unique variations in colour, texture, size, and behaviour. From the iconic Ghaf tree to the resilient desert grasses, each specimen tells a story of adaptation and survival. The exhibition features a curated collection of art installations and informative exhibits that highlight the ecological significance of these plants and trees.
Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Al Qattara Arts Centre
Entry: Free Entry
For more details, please visit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/events/native-plants-in-the-uae
MANAR ABU DHABI 2025 (Until 4 January 2026)
Manar Abu Dhabi will once again illuminate the archipelagos, mangroves, and oases of the emirate of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Drawing on the Gulf’s ancestral relationship with light, this edition of Manar Abu Dhabi brings together contemporary artworks that respond to its presence, behaviour, and resonance across natural and technological forms. Set within Abu Dhabi’s diverse landscapes, The Light Compass will unfold across mangroves, sandbanks, oases, and urban edges, where artworks form a breathing constellation and become a living map shaped by reflection and relation.
Time: Open daily, 5:30 pm – 12:00 AM
Location: Al Qattara Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis
Until 4 January 2026
Time: Jubail Island: open daily, 5:30 pm – midnight
Souq Al Mina: Open 24 hours
Location: Jubail Island and Souq Al Mina, Abu Dhabi
15 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
For more details, please visit: https://paad.ae/manar
‘ALA YOUNIS: PAST TEMPORAL UNIVERSE’ EXHIBITION (Until 18 January 2026)
This exhibit is a dynamic contemporary art space that showcases diverse exhibitions, fostering cultural dialogue and creativity. Open to the public, the gallery presents rotating shows and events that highlight both regional and international artists, supporting innovative artistic practices and engagement. It serves as a vital platform for exploring contemporary art within the vibrant cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi and beyond.
Time: Tuesday to Sunday 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: NYUAD Art Gallery
For more details, please visit: https://publicprograms.nyuad.nyu.edu/en/the-art-gallery/exhibitions/fall-2025-ala-younis.html
MAMLUKS: LEGACY OF AN EMPIRE (Until 25 January 2026)
Louvre Abu Dhabi’s “Mamluks: Legacy of an Empire” showcases over 250 exceptional works, highlighting the Mamluks’ enduring impact as formidable warriors, skilled diplomats, and masterful craftsmen. The exhibition celebrates their artistic brilliance and significant contributions to art, culture, and diplomacy during a flourishing period in the Islamic Golden Age.
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Location:Louvre Abu Dhabi
Entry: AED 65 (full price)/ AED 35 (reduced price) per person
For more details, please visit: https://www.louvreabudhabi.ae/en/exhibitions/mamluks-exhibition
“NJA MAHDAOUI: THE CHOREOGRAPHER OF LETTERS” (Until 25 January 2026)
Nja Mahdaoui is a pioneering Tunisian visual artist whose work has defined the field of calligraphic abstraction. Often described as a “choreographer of letters,” his practice liberates the Arabic script from linguistic meaning, transforming it into a visual, rhythmic, and poetic form. By emphasising gesture and morphology, Mahdaoui opens new aesthetic worlds that transcend cultural boundaries and invite viewers into intuitive, sensory encounters.
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Bassam Frieha Art Foundation
For more details, please visit: https://bfaf.ae/exhibition/nja-mahdaoui-the-choreographer-of-letters/
MOHAMED AHMED IBRAHIM: TWO CLOUDS IN THE NIGHT SKY (Until 22 February 2026)
“Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim: Two Clouds in the Night Sky” is a solo exhibition celebrating the work of pioneer artist Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim, an influential figure in the development of contemporary art in the UAE.
Time: Saturday – Thursday: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Friday: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Cultural Foundation
Entry: Free
For more details, please visit: https://culturalfoundation.ae/en/event/mohamed-ahmed-ibrahim-two-clouds-in-the-night-sky
AND AFTER (Until 22 February 2026)
“And After” explores the element of air and its various states through the lens of Arabic terminology, specifically “Sukoon”, “Hawaa”, “Naseem”, and “Riyah”. In Arabic, “Sukoon” symbolises stillness and the pause between movement, while “Hawaa” refers to the gentle, everyday state of air. The exhibition examines how these elemental states influence our environments and internal rhythms, encouraging visitors to contemplate the moments of pause and transformation.
Time: Saturday – Thursday: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Friday: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Cultural Foundation
Entry: Free
For more details, please visit: https://culturalfoundation.ae/en/event/and-after
GOLDEN INK: A JOURNEY THROUGH ARAB AND ISLAMIC MANUSCRIPTS(Until 7 April 2026)
A flagship travelling exhibition debuting at Qasr Al Watan, curated in partnership with McGill University. The event explores the intellectual and artistic legacy of the Islamic world, presenting rare manuscripts spanning science, literature, religion, art, and philosophy from Abu Dhabi Libraries, McGill, and key UAE collections. Through academic rigour and immersive displays, including exclusive pieces from Zayed National Museum and Louvre Abu Dhabi, the exhibition celebrates the beauty and global significance of manuscript heritage while inviting audiences into a visually rich, cross-cultural dialogue that continues in Montreal in 2027.
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: Qasr Al Watan, House of Knowledge
Entry: Starting from AED 30 per person
For more details, please visit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/events/golden-ink-a-journey-through-arabic-and-islamic-manuscripts-exhibition
ABU DHABI ART: ARTIST COMMISSIONS IN CULTURAL SITES (19 November 2026 – 26 April 2026)
Launched in 2017, Abu Dhabi Art invites renowned artists to create site-specific works in historic locations across Al Ain and Abu Dhabi. These commissions activate cultural sites, engage new audiences, and remain on view beyond the fair.
Location: Al Ain Museum, Al Ain Oasis, Al Hili Archeological Park, and Al Qattara Oasis
For more details, please visit: https://www.abudhabiart.ae/en/programme/exhibitions-installations
ABU DHABI ART: BEYOND EMERGING ARTISTS (19 November 2026 – 26 April 2026)
An annual initiative supporting three emerging UAE-based artists in developing their practice and producing new work through a year-long, curator-led programme. The resulting projects are presented at Abu Dhabi Art and on international platforms. Supported by Friends of Abu Dhabi Art and sponsored by Abu Dhabi Art’s Global Partner, HSBC.
Location & Date: Manarat Al Saadiyat Hall A: 19 – 23 November 2025
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Al Ain Cultural Sites: Al Ain Oasis, Al Jahili Fort, and Jebel Hafit: 19 November – 26 April 2026
For more details, please visit:https://www.abudhabiart.ae/en/programme/exhibitions-installations
CONSTRUCTING THE ORIENT: FRAGMENTS OF A WESTERN DREAM (Until 31 May 2026)
Constructing the Orient: Fragments of a Western Dream brings together works from Bassam Freiha Collection alongside loans from Galerie Ary Jan in Paris. Together, these two sources create a dialogue that allows the exhibition to examine how Orientalist painting was shaped by recurring archetypes and Western imagination. Seen side by side, the works offer visitors a rare opportunity to reflect on both the artistic fascination with the “Orient” and the cultural narratives that continue to resonate today.
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
Entry: Free
For more details, please visit: https://bfaf.ae/exhibition/constructing-the-orient-fragments-of-a-western-dream/
QUANTUM DOME PROJECT: A COLLECTIVE VR EXPERIENCE (Until 30 June 2026)
Immerse yourself in our new, family-friendly collective virtual reality experience.
Travel back in time through the ages and discover breathtaking historical landscapes—from Imperial Rome and Medieval Baghdad to Mughal India.
Time: Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry: 6:00 PM)
Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM (last entry: 8:00 PM)
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Entry: AED 120 (full price) / AED 95 (reduced price) per person
For more details, please visit: https://www.louvreabudhabi.ae/en/whats-on/vr-experience
ABU DHABI MASTERPIECES COLLECTION: EXHIBITION-DOSSIERS (Until April 2026)
The Abu Dhabi Collection, showcased through “Exhibition-Dossiers,” presents global artworks from prehistory to the present, fostering cultural dialogue. The second series highlights Jean-Baptiste-Siméon Chardin’s reunited 18th-century pair and Jean-Michel Basquiat’s “El Gran Espectáculo (The Nile),” currently on display at Manarat Al Saadiyat. The first series featured Nicolas Poussin’s “Confirmation,” Pierre Bonnard’s “Self-Portrait,” and Zao Wou-Ki’s “Triptyque 2000 – 23.12.2001.”
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
Entry: Free entry
For more details, please visit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/cultural-programmes/exhibitions-and-fairs/abu-dhabi-collection
Performing Arts
HEKAYAH: THE STORY (27 November 2025)
Hekayah | The Story brings together poets, singers, dancers, and instrumentalists to showcase the beautiful diversity of the UAE.
Time: 7:30 PM
Location: The Black Box, The Arts Centre
For more details please visit: https://publicprograms.nyuad.nyu.edu/en/the-arts-center/events/2025/november/hekayah-the-story.html
Community
AL-QOMRA PHOTOGRAPHY MEET UPS (Ongoing)
Al-Qomra Photography Meet Ups is a bi-weekly program at Manarat Al Saadiyat Photography Studio designed for photographers of all levels to connect, learn, and share their passion. Featuring meet-up sessions, workshops, and photo walks, the program fosters a supportive local photography community by encouraging discussions and skill sharing among enthusiasts and professionals alike. Sessions are held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offering a platform for growth and networking within Abu Dhabi’s photography scene.
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
For more details, please visit: https://manaratalsaadiyat.ae/en/photographycentre/alqomraphotographymeetups/
Festivals
TRADITIONAL HANDICRAFTS FESTIVAL (Until 20 November 2025)
Taking place at Al Ain’s historic Souq Al Qattara, this year’s festival is themed “A Journey through Community Traditional Craftsmanship” as part of the UAE’s Year of Community. The annual celebration promises a journey into the heart of Emirati heritage, craftsmanship, and community.
Time: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM for the general public
9:00 AM – 1:00 PM for students
Location: Souq Al Qattara, Al Ain
Entry: Free Entry
For more details, please visit:https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/events/traditional-handicrafts-festival-2025
MARITIME HERITAGE FESTIVAL (Until 23 November 2025)
The Maritime Heritage Festival returns for its fourth edition, celebrating Emirati coastal culture and traditions. Running for 10 days from 14 – 23 November 2025, Abu Dhabi Beach – East Corniche will transform into a new vibrant space, inviting visitors of all ages to explore Abu Dhabi’s rich maritime legacy.
Time: 4:00PM – 11:00PM
Location: Abu Dhabi Beach – East Corniche
Entry: AED30 Per Person
For more details, please visit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/events/maritime-heritage-festival-2025
SHEIKH ZAYED FESTIVAL (Until 22 March 2026)
The horizons of culture are ever-expanding, its paths are diversifying, and the need for its presence is increasing as a way for peoples to come together within a framework of tolerance, brotherhood and peace. The Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi comes within this framework, employing all its noble values, striving and aspiring towards common human development.
Location: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi
Entry: AED10 Per Person
For more details, please visit: https://zayedfestival.ae/en
Communit
A SCENE ON MANAMA (22 November 2025)
This play tells the story of a musical band invited to participate in an international forum and perform before a global audience. Shortly before the concert, a state of emergency is declared, leading to the cancellation of the event.
Time: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Bait Mohamed bin Khalifa
Entry: Free Entry
For more details, please visit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/events/samra
AL JIMI AND AL QATTARA OASES TRAIL (Until 31 December 2025)
An immersive discovery trail through the historic Al Jimi and Al Qattara Oases in Al Ain that will undoubtedly enhance the cultural understanding of Al Ain and firmly establish it as a key cultural destination.
Time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Location: Al‑Jimi Oasis and Al‑Qattara Oasis, Al Ain
Entry: Free Entry
For more details, please visit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/events/al-jimi-and-al-qattara-oases-trail
ART IN MOTION (Until 27 May 2026)
Discover how cinema and art speak to each other in a new curated series that brings the museum’s stories to life on the big screen. Each film is thoughtfully paired with a current exhibition, a masterpiece from our collection, or one of our ongoing initiatives at Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Entry: Free Entry. Resigration required.
For more details, please visit: https://www.louvreabudhabi.ae/en/art-in-motion-winter-film-screenings
Workshops
PROGRAMMES AT ABU DHABI CHILDREN’S LIBRARY (Until 30 November 2025)
Enter a world of imagination where your children can explore books and engage in library activities that encourage your child’s creativity.
Time: Times Vary – Open Daily
Location: Cultural Foundation
Entry: Free Entry. Paid programmes are marked and require prior booking at the library
For more details, please visit: https://culturalfoundation.ae/en/event/library-daily-programme
AL QATTARA ART WORKSHOPS (Until 30 November 2025)
Enjoy a series of workshops and courses for the entire family, giving arts enthusiasts the chance to immerse themselves in the creative arts scene.
Time: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Al Qattara Arts Centre
Entry: Tickets Vary
For more details, please visit: https://abudhabiculture.ae/en/events/al-qattara-art-workshops
ACTIVITIES AND WORKSHOPS AT MAKTABA BRANCHES (Until 30 November 2025)
Maktaba is hosting a series of engaging and informative workshops.
Time: Times vary
Location: Locations Vary
Entry: Tickets vary
For more details, please visit: https://library.dctabudhabi.ae/calendar
ART WORKSHOPS CULTURAL FOUNDATION (Until 30 November 2025)
Cultural Foundation is hosting a series of engaging art workshops.
Time: Times vary
Location: Cultural Foundation
Entry: Tickets vary
For more details, please visit: https://culturalfoundation.ae/en/calendar?category=Workshops
ART STUDIO WORKSHOPS & DROP-IN SESSIONS (Ongoing)
Art Studio at Manarat Al Saadiyat is a multi-disciplinary arts space designed to bring hands-on arts education programmes, art classes, drop-in sessions, workshops, and outreach initiatives to students, adults, children, and families in the emirate.
Time: Times vary
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
Entry: Tickets vary
For more details, please visit: https://manaratalsaadiyat.ae/en/artstudio/workshopsandclasses/
