World Art Dubai (WAD), the Middle East’s most accessible retail art fair, returns for its 11th edition from April 17 to 20, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC). Featuring over 400 artists and galleries from more than 65 countries, the event will showcase 10,000 artworks for sale and create unmatched opportunities for cultural exchange, artistic discovery, and creative networking.
The four-day celebration of art will spotlight emerging talent while offering a dynamic mix of exhibitions, workshops, and immersive experiences designed to captivate both regional and global audiences.
A Global Art Community Gathers in Dubai
Now in its eleventh year, World Art Dubai has evolved into more than just an annual event — it has become a thriving global art community. With an ever-increasing number of returning artists and galleries, the fair has built a reputation as a premier destination for creative dialogue, collector engagement, and cross-cultural collaboration.
Artists and exhibitors continue to recognize the platform’s growing influence in connecting them with collectors, curators, and art buyers, while providing a springboard for creative legacies to flourish. This year’s edition reinforces these ties, expanding World Art Dubai’s role as a gateway to international art commerce and innovation.
New Pavilions, Exclusive Previews, and Engaging Public Installations
To further enrich the visitor and exhibitor experience, World Art Dubai 2025 introduces key enhancements:
- VIP Preview: An exclusive, invitation-only session offering early access to art collectors and commercial buyers, fostering strategic connections and driving market growth.
- Hosted Buyer Programme: A tailored matchmaking platform that aligns collectors with exhibitors, enhancing business outcomes and reinforcing the UAE’s position as an art investment hub.
Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, DWTC, shared:
“World Art Dubai remains a key platform for artistic exchange, uniting global artists, galleries, and collectors. Our new initiatives this year are designed to elevate engagement and accessibility, making this our most dynamic edition yet.”
The 2025 edition also features the introduction of new country pavilions, welcoming representation from Zimbabwe, Mongolia, Australia, and Estonia. These additions will showcase a broad spectrum of artistic expression—from Zimbabwe’s modern visual narratives and Mongolia’s nomadic artistry to Australia’s bold murals and Mexico’s mirror sculptures.
Newly launched Emirati and Philippines Pavilions will also highlight regional artistry and heritage, positioning local and Southeast Asian talents at the forefront of the international scene. Existing pavilions from countries like Turkey and the UAE have expanded, reflecting the fair’s increasing global reach.
Fostering Artistic Exchange through Innovation and Inclusion
As a strategic partner, Dubai Culture will host an engaging program at the fair, including live art demonstrations, interactive workshops, youth-focused activities, and panel discussions. Attendees can explore calligraphy, printmaking, and traditional crafts reimagined through contemporary lenses — all part of Dubai’s broader commitment to cultivating creative talent.
New and returning features in 2025 include:
- The Textile Hub: A debut platform dedicated to the artistry of textiles, offering hands-on experiences and storytelling through fabric-based design.
- Public Art Initiative with One Central: For the first time, World Art Dubai extends beyond DWTC through large-scale public installations that transform Dubai’s urban spaces, promoting community access to art.
- Artist in Residence Programme: Returning to give international creators the chance to develop and exhibit their work in Dubai, contributing to the city’s evolving cultural ecosystem.
- WAD Around the World: China is this year’s Country of Honour, with a special pavilion dedicated to Chinese traditional and contemporary art. Live performances will further enhance international cultural dialogue within the UAE.
“We are thrilled to present another exciting edition of World Art Dubai,” adds Asma Al Sharif. “With an expanded lineup of artists, galleries, and creative activations, this year’s fair continues our mission to democratize art and celebrate global talent.”
World Art Dubai 2025 is supported by Knightsbridge Group (Legal Sponsor) and ANAX Developments (Official Property Sponsor).
Save the Date:
April 17–20, 2025
Dubai World Trade Centre
For tickets and the full list of exhibitors, visit www.worldartdubai.com
Follow:
Instagram: @worldartdubai
Facebook: WAD2024
Twitter: @WorldArtDubai
