Introduction
The art scenes in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia have witnessed remarkable growth in 2025, hosting a series of high-profile exhibitions that blend tradition with contemporary innovation. These events have attracted global attention, offering artists and agencies unparalleled opportunities to engage with diverse audiences.
United Arab Emirates
1. Art Dubai 2025
Celebrating its 20th edition, Art Dubai 2025 featured over 120 galleries from 65 cities, solidifying its status as the Middle East’s premier art fair. The event showcased a diverse range of contemporary and modern art, with a notable emphasis on digital and NFT artworks. Special programs highlighted the contributions of women in the art world, reflecting the UAE’s commitment to inclusivity.
2. Sharjah Biennial 16
Under the theme “To Carry,” the 16th Sharjah Biennial presented works by 190 artists across 17 venues, emphasizing narratives from the Global South. The biennial featured 80 new commissions, offering fresh perspectives on contemporary issues and fostering cross-cultural dialogues.
3. Louvre Abu Dhabi: Kings and Queens of Africa
The Louvre Abu Dhabi hosted “Kings and Queens of Africa,” an exhibition exploring a millennium of African history through royal artifacts and contemporary art. The showcase provided insights into the continent’s rich cultural heritage and its influence on global art narratives.
4. SIKKA Art & Design Festival
Held in the historic Al Shindagha district, the SIKKA Art & Design Festival celebrated its 13th edition with over 350 artworks from Emirati and GCC artists. The festival featured interactive installations, workshops, and performances, emphasizing community engagement and emerging talents.
5. Guggenheim Abu Dhabi Opening
After years of anticipation, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi is set to open in 2025 on Saadiyat Island. Designed by Frank Gehry, the museum will house 27 galleries featuring approximately 600 works from 300 artists, positioning Abu Dhabi as a global cultural hub.
Saudi Arabia
1. Islamic Arts Biennale
Titled “And All That Is In Between,” the Islamic Arts Biennale in Jeddah showcased Islamic artworks and artifacts from around the world. The exhibition provided a platform for exploring the evolution and diversity of Islamic art across different cultures and eras.
2. Art Week Riyadh 2025
The inaugural Art Week Riyadh featured over 45 galleries and cultural institutions under the theme “At The Edge.” The event included curated exhibitions, collectors’ showcases, and interactive experiences, highlighting Riyadh’s burgeoning art scene.
3. AlUla Arts Festival
Set against the backdrop of AlUla’s stunning landscapes, the AlUla Arts Festival offered multidisciplinary exhibitions and performances. Highlights included “Raw to Revival,” focusing on traditional crafts, and “Neuma – The Forgotten Ceremony,” an immersive installation blending movement and design.
4. Art of the Kingdom: Poetic Illuminations
Hosted at the Saudi Arabia Museum of Contemporary Art in Diriyah, this exhibition presented works by 17 Saudi artists, exploring themes of identity and cultural heritage. The showcase aimed to provide a platform for Saudi contemporary art on the global stage.
5. James Turrell Exhibition in Wadi AlFann
Renowned artist James Turrell presented a site-specific exhibition in Wadi AlFann, AlUla, utilizing natural light and the desert landscape to create immersive experiences. The exhibition emphasized the interplay between art, nature, and perception.
Conclusion
The year 2025 has marked a significant milestone in the art landscapes of the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Through a series of high-profile exhibitions and the inauguration of world-class institutions, both countries have demonstrated a profound commitment to fostering artistic expression and cultural dialogue. For artists and agencies, these developments offer unparalleled opportunities to engage with diverse audiences and contribute to the evolving narratives of the region’s art scenes.
Useful Resource: Venue-wise
For those planning to organize art events in the UAE or Saudi Arabia, VenueWise is a valuable platform offering a curated selection of venues suitable for exhibitions, workshops, and cultural gatherings. The platform provides detailed information on each venue, facilitating the planning process for artists and agencies alike.
