The region’s most accessible and dynamic retail art fair, World Art Dubai (WAD), officially returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) from April 17 to 20. Now in its 11th edition, the fair will unite more than 400 artists and galleries representing over 65 countries, offering visitors four vibrant days of creativity, live art, and global artistic discovery.
Building a Thriving Global Art Community
Over the years, World Art Dubai has grown beyond the label of an art fair. With many returning exhibitors and an expanding global footprint, WAD has become a cornerstone for artistic exchange and opportunity. Artists, collectors, and galleries alike view the fair as an essential platform to forge new relationships, showcase emerging talent, and connect with buyers and industry leaders.
This year’s event amplifies that legacy, reinforcing Dubai’s status as a leading global creative destination while offering regional artists fresh access to international exposure.
Enhanced Programmes Designed for Growth
In line with Dubai’s strategy to become a cultural capital, World Art Dubai 2025 introduces two impactful additions:
- VIP Preview: An exclusive, invitation-only opening event that allows collectors and commercial buyers first access to new collections while encouraging deeper engagement between artists and patrons.
- Hosted Buyer Programme: This curated matchmaking initiative aims to streamline interactions between artists, galleries, and collectors, ensuring strategic connections that support the UAE’s art market expansion.
Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions for Dubai World Trade Centre, highlighted the fair’s growing importance. “World Art Dubai remains a vital platform for creative exchange, bringing together global talent and collectors. Our new initiatives this year aim to deepen engagement and accessibility, making this the most dynamic edition yet,” she said.
Expanding Global Reach and Local Talent Spotlight
World Art Dubai 2025 also expands its international reach through newly introduced country pavilions. Visitors can explore the creative diversity of Zimbabwe, Mongolia, Australia, and Estonia — each offering a window into distinct artistic traditions. Zimbabwe will present its modern art scene, Mongolia will explore its nomadic visual culture, while Australia and Mexico will showcase vibrant murals and reflective mirror sculptures, respectively.
Additionally, the fair welcomes the debut of the Emirati Pavilion and the Philippines Pavilion — dedicated spaces that spotlight regional artistry and Southeast Asian cultural heritage, allowing local and global audiences to appreciate the rich narratives emerging from these creative communities.
Returning pavilions, including those from Turkey and the UAE, will also showcase their growth, underscoring the fair’s rising influence as a global art marketplace and cultural meeting point.
Dubai Culture’s Continued Support and New Experiences
A strategic partner for the event, Dubai Culture will once again present an interactive programme featuring live demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and expert panel discussions. Visitors can take part in calligraphy and printmaking sessions, experience Emirati artists creating live, and explore displays that blend traditional crafts with modern expression — reflecting Dubai Culture’s mission to nurture and empower the city’s creative economy.
Beyond the fairgrounds, new features for 2025 aim to make art even more accessible:
- The Textile Hub: A new dedicated space highlighting the art of textiles through live demonstrations, interactive workshops, and hands-on experiences designed to celebrate craftsmanship and storytelling.
- Public Art Initiative with One Central: Large-scale installations will extend the fair’s influence beyond the DWTC, transforming Dubai’s public spaces and bringing art closer to the community.
- Artist in Residence Programme: This initiative returns, offering global artists a chance to create and exhibit their work in Dubai, while gaining access to studio space, resources, and valuable exposure.
- WAD Around the World — Country of Honour: China will hold the spotlight as the fair’s featured country for 2025, offering a dedicated pavilion filled with traditional and contemporary Chinese art, alongside live cultural performances.
Al Sharif concluded, “We are excited to welcome a remarkable lineup of artists and galleries for another extraordinary year of World Art Dubai. This event continues to evolve, bringing artistic dialogue to new heights, and extending creativity beyond the gallery walls.”
World Art Dubai 2025 is presented with support from Knightsbridge Group, the fair’s legal sponsor, and ANAX Developments, its official property sponsor.
For exhibitor lists and ticket details, visit: worldartdubai.com
