Abu dhabi: The Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Frieze have announced their partnership to transform Abu Dhabi Art into Frieze Abu Dhabi, marking a new chapter in the emirate's role on the global art calendar. For 17 years, Abu Dhabi Art has been a significant part of the region's cultural landscape, establishing itself in the regional calendar. Anchored in the emirate's museums, artist residencies, and institutions, the fair has built a reputation for credibility, attracting an international collector base that reflects Abu Dhabi's cosmopolitan spirit and global standing.
According to Emirates News Agency, the evolution into Frieze Abu Dhabi builds on that legacy, reinforcing the emirate's long-term cultural vision while extending the fair's reach through Frieze's international networks and expertise. Anchored in its central role in the capital's cultural life, the fair will continue an approach rooted in discovery, dialogue, and global perspectives.
The collaboration represents the first major initiative under Frieze's new ownership and reflects a shared ambition, underlining Abu Dhabi as a centre for culture and creativity, while giving Frieze a unique position in the Arabian Gulf's most established art ecosystem. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized the importance of this evolution, stating that the launch of Frieze Abu Dhabi is a natural progression of the journey that began with Abu Dhabi Art, aiming to carry its achievements onto the global stage.
Simon Fox, CEO of Frieze, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, highlighting Abu Dhabi's cultural leadership and the foundation it provides for this partnership. He noted that the combination of Abu Dhabi's cultural assets and Frieze's global platform can amplify the emirate's achievements while opening new possibilities for discovery and championing artistic practices from the region.
As Frieze Abu Dhabi, the fair will bring a distinctive Frieze approach, showcasing new artistic practices and providing a stage for regional and global connection. The inaugural edition of Frieze Abu Dhabi will take place in November 2026 at Manarat Al Saadiyat, featuring leading galleries from the Middle East and around the world. Deutsche Bank, Global Lead Partner of Frieze, will continue its support, maintaining a collaboration that spans all Frieze's fairs worldwide.
The 2025 edition of Abu Dhabi Art will proceed under its current format, with the transformation into Frieze Abu Dhabi beginning with the 2026 edition, ensuring continuity for participating galleries and audiences while preparing for the fair's new chapter.