Art dubai: Art Dubai opened today at Madinat Jumeirah, with a 20th anniversary edition that celebrates and honours the artists, galleries and institutions that have been central to the two decades of unprecedented growth in the UAE's creative industries.
According to Emirates News Agency, taking place in a modified format at Madinat Jumeirah, the 2026 programme foregrounds the galleries, institutions and communities that have shaped the region's art scene and market, and features over 100 presentations from commercial galleries, institutional participants and partners. Running until Sunday 17 May, the event is free for all to attend, made possible through the support of Dubai Culture.
For 20 years, Art Dubai has championed the artists, galleries and collectors whose voices, ideas and practices have built and sustained the region's cultural landscape. This special edition reflects both that history and the present moment, bringing together a programme that builds on the fair's core strengths of independence, deep local and regional roots and diverse global perspectives.
The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is the strategic partner of Art Dubai. Art Dubai is presented in partnership with A.R.M. Holding. Culturally driven lifestyle developer HUNA is a partner of Art Dubai. Madinat Jumeirah is the home of Art Dubai.
Benedetta Ghione, Executive Director, Art Dubai Group, stated that Art Dubai has evolved into an international platform for the region's cultural scene. She emphasized that this special edition demonstrates the power of collaboration and long-term partnerships, reflecting the region's unique cultural ecosystem.
Dunja Gottweis, Director, Art Dubai Fair, highlighted the fair's unique DNA, showcasing a diversity of perspectives across contemporary, modern, and digital practices. She noted the ambitious and considered work presented by galleries, reflecting the depth of the region and its cultural connections.
Alexie Glass-Kantor, Executive Director, Curatorial, Art Dubai Group, added that the programme is shaped by a guiding theme of collaboration, bringing different forms of practice into dialogue. The event invites audiences to engage and encounter work in unexpected ways, fostering a connected and open experience.
Rooted in Dubai and deeply connected across the extended region, this special edition of Art Dubai continues to highlight Dubai's status as the region's commercial art hub. It reflects Art Dubai's commitment to bridging regional practices with global contexts, featuring international galleries alongside those instrumental in shaping the region's cultural landscape.
Complementing the gallery presentations, this special edition of Art Dubai will present a programme of exhibitions, large-scale installations, commissions, performances, and screenings, alongside a daily programme of talks and conversations.