Art Dubai closed its 20th anniversary edition after drawing a record number of visitors and reinforcing Dubai’s growing influence in the global art and design economy. Held from 14–17 May at Madinat Jumeirah under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the fair welcomed more than 25,000 visitors during its public days.
The anniversary edition focused on artists, galleries, and institutions that shaped two decades of rapid expansion across the UAE’s creative industries. At the same time, the fair highlighted a new generation of UAE-based creatives working across contemporary, modern, and digital art practices. Strong sales continued throughout the four-day programme, while international museums, regional institutions, and private collectors attended from across Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and North America.
Moreover, the event strengthened Dubai’s position as a commercial art hub connecting regional and international markets. Supported by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority as a strategic partner, the fair also partnered with A.R.M. Holding and lifestyle developer HUNA.
Benedetta Ghione, Executive Director, Art Dubai Group, said: “Realising this Art Dubai has taken a monumental effort from so many people. We are grateful for the support of the artists, galleries, and partners who have been instrumental in making this edition so special. We have always been proud of our local roots, but this week has exceeded all expectations – the community came out in force in celebration of this city’s incredible diversity and creativity, demonstrating the role that culture can play in bringing people together.”
Galleries Spotlight Regional Creativity and Design-Led Collecting
This year’s edition featured galleries with longstanding ties to the Gulf alongside newer exhibitors shaping the region’s evolving visual culture. Consequently, the fair reflected broader shifts in collecting patterns, especially among younger regional buyers interested in contemporary design, digital art, and cross-cultural narratives.
Franco Noero Gallery founder Franco Noero said, “From the first time we showed at Art Dubai in 2014, we found the region to be full of wonderful artists and people, and it is clear that this is a place that rewards investment. We came back in a difficult moment, and have had an amazing experience – the level of sophistication of our clients here is hard to beat.”
Meanwhile, Tabari Artspace founder Maliha Tabari noted: “Art Dubai turns 20 this year, and it is impossible to overstate what that means for the region. The fair has been central to our ecosystem since the early days, bringing MENA art into conversation with global audiences.”
The fair also amplified conversations around regional identity and creative exchange. In addition, galleries reported heightened engagement from collectors seeking works connected to Gulf narratives and contemporary Middle Eastern aesthetics.
Taymour Grahne, who opened his eponymous gallery in Dubai in 2025, said: “Art Dubai for me this year was magic. We were thrilled to present a solo booth by Emirati artist Roudhah Al Marzouei, and we sold out our booth within the first couple of hours of the fair.”
International Museums and Collectors Deepen Dubai’s Cultural Reach
Institutional participation expanded significantly this year, with representatives arriving from more than 20 countries. Participating organisations included Zeitz MOCAA, Busan Museum of Art, and Museum of Modern Art.
Furthermore, prominent collectors from the UAE and abroad attended the fair, underscoring Dubai’s growing role within international cultural networks. Regional galleries also noted stronger collaboration among artists, institutions, and collectors across the Middle East.
Mohammed Hafiz, Co-Founder, ATHR Gallery, said: “What started as a shared experiment to build a regional ecosystem has become a global platform. This Special Edition makes one thing clear: the region is not at the periphery of the conversation. It is at its centre.”
The next edition of Art Dubai 2027 will take place at Madinat Jumeirah from 7–11 April 2027.