Abu Dhabi Art will continue its evolution in 2026 as Frieze Abu Dhabi, following the conclusion of its 17th edition in 2025.
Organised by Frieze in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the inaugural edition of Frieze Abu Dhabi will take place at Manarat Al Saadiyat from November 20 to 22, 2026.
From Abu Dhabi Art to Frieze Abu Dhabi
Launched in 2009 at Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi Art grew from 42 galleries in its inaugural year to 142 galleries in its final edition in 2025. Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the fair expanded the conventional art fair model by placing strong emphasis on year-round public engagement.
Its annual programme included art installations, exhibitions, talks, and events presented across various locations in the emirate, culminating each November in the Abu Dhabi Art fair itself. The fair served both as a key sales platform for participating galleries and as a venue for ambitious installations and site-specific works presented to a wide public audience.
International modern and contemporary galleries presented a broad selection of artworks for sale. Meanwhile, guest curators contributed to the public programme through exhibitions, talks, and performances that brought diverse global perspectives to Abu Dhabi.
Throughout the years, Abu Dhabi Art has also collaborated with artists to create the annual fair’s visual campaigns. In addition, it worked alongside local and international sponsors and partners to deliver both the programme and the event.
Manarat Al Saadiyat and Abu Dhabi’s cultural ecosystem
From 2011 onwards, the fair was held at Manarat Al Saadiyat (MAS), a cultural centre on Saadiyat Island that has played a vital role in Abu Dhabi’s art ecosystem.
Since its opening in 2009, MAS has served as a community hub and a gateway to the Saadiyat Cultural District. The district is home to Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum, and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Following Abu Dhabi Art’s final edition in 2025, Frieze Abu Dhabi will introduce the next chapter of the fair’s development. The new event will retain its inaugural setting at Manarat Al Saadiyat while bringing the Frieze name and platform to Abu Dhabi.
Frieze Abu Dhabi will debut from November 20 to 22, 2026, marking a new phase for the emirate’s international contemporary art programme.