Expo City Dubai and the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority have announced the second edition of Dhai Dubai, the first Emirati-led light art exhibition. The event will run from 12 to 18 November 2025 at Al Wasl Plaza, highlighting Emirati heritage through contemporary art. This year’s edition builds on the success of 2024, presenting seven new light sculptures from artists including Fatma Lootah, Mohammed Kazem, Khalid AlBanna, Alia Bin Omair, AlZaina Lootah, Ahmed Al Areef Al Dhaheri, and Hessa Alghandi. Each work explores the cultural, emotional, and spiritual resonance of light in Emirati tradition.
The exhibition also introduces a series of artist talks and public dialogues at the newly launched House of Arts in Expo City. This venue aims to connect regional artists, provide creative support, and foster collaboration across the Arabian Gulf. Programming details will be revealed in October. The partnership between Expo City Dubai and Dubai Culture reflects their shared goal of empowering artists, boosting cultural tourism, and positioning Dubai as a global arts hub.
Voices Behind the Vision
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, said: “Dhai Dubai, through its varied experiences and interactive programming, reflects the depth of our partnership with Expo City Dubai. It also highlights our ongoing efforts to boost cultural tourism and support the cultural and creative industries by encouraging artists to present works that embody the values and spirit of the emirate.”
She added: “This exhibition marks an important moment on our annual calendar, advancing the Public Art Strategy and fostering dialogue between artists and different communities. It invites visitors to explore the role of art in connecting people, discover the creatives shaping our public spaces, and experience how the city’s diversity is brought to life through innovative installations. In doing so, Dhai Dubai demonstrates the forward-thinking approach of Emirati talent, whose work keeps pace with global trends in contemporary art.”
Amna Abulhoul, Co-Curator of Dhai Dubai and Executive Creative Director of Entertainment and Experiences at Expo City Dubai, said: “This partnership is a celebration of shared purpose, a deep-rooted belief in the power of culture to elevate, connect, and transform. Dhai Dubai is the spirit of Dubai made visible: a place where past and future interwind together in brilliance, where art becomes a bridge, and where artistic dreams are given space and light to grow. Having the support of Dubai Culture is both a privilege and a powerful affirmation of our collective commitment to the creative community. It reinforces our mission to empower artists, preserve our stories, and ensure that platforms like Dhai Dubai continue to thrive and inspire. Through the voices and visions of our artists, we are not only illuminating Emirati identity but also offering the world a window into the soul of a nation.”
Event Details and Outlook
Running from 12 to 18 November at Al Wasl Plaza, the exhibition promises to merge tradition with contemporary innovation. It will feature installations that embody elegance and cultural depth while engaging audiences in meaningful dialogue. Co-curated with Anthony Bastic, CEO and Creative Director of AGB Creative, the event reaffirms Dubai’s dedication to cultural leadership and creative excellence. More information is available at www.dhaidubai.com.