Having long been known for its plentitude of shopping centers and flashy race cars, in recent years, the regional capital of opulence, glitz, and glam has slowly been embracing its newly earned title of hub of artistic and cultural expression in the Arab World.
It is often said that Dubai’s art scene is a melting pot of contemporary, traditional, and experimental styles and perspectives, all brought together in a city that’s never been afraid to break the mold to cast a light of its own. From the buzzing and vibrant AlSerkal Avenue to the more reputable galleries in the Dubai International Financial center (DIFC), there’s always a fresh spot to head towards and explore, with each one offering something different to the everyday visitor.
Steadily growing since the 1970s, when the city was transformed from a small fishing village into the sprawling metropolis it is today, Dubai’s art scene is now a force to be reckoned with in the Middle East and Asian continent, attracting artists and professionals from all over the globe with its rich history that dates back centuries, and it shows no signs of slowing down. With an ever-expanding range of festivals, symposiums and events, there are more opportunities than ever for both established and emerging artists to showcase their work and connect with audiences in the UAE and beyond. And with the 16th edition of Art Dubai coming up from Mar. 1 to 5, there’s never been a better time than now to get your culture fix.
Below, six Dubai-based art galleries that showcase contemporary and traditional art pieces alike, from local and international artists, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and multimedia works, to check out at this year’s edition of Art Dubai at Madinat Jumeirah.
The Third Line
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Founded in 2005, The Third Line is dedicated to promoting Middle Eastern artists on the global stage. Carrying a preceding reputation for showcasing work that challenge conventional notions of identity, culture, and politics, with a particular emphasis on photography and mixed media installations, the gallery’s roster of artists includes established figures such as Shirin Neshat and Youssef Nabil, as well as emerging talents from across the region.
Efie Gallery
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Efie Gallery specializes in showcasing African art and promoting artists from the continent and diaspora. As a family-founded gallery, it provides a unique platform for cross-cultural exchange and collaboration between the Middle East and Africa, representing established and mid-career artists. Through its exhibitions, the gallery aims to contribute to the growth of the contemporary art scene in Dubai while providing a fresh perspective on African art.
Carbon 12
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With its sleek, industrial-chic interiors and intriguing exhibitions, Carbon 12 is a must-visit for anyone interested in contemporary art. The gallery represents a long list of artists from around the world, with a special focus on those working in or with media.
Lawrie Shabibi
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Specializing in contemporary Middle Eastern art, Lawrie Shabibi is one of Dubai’s most respected art galleries. With a focus on artists who explore themes of cultural identity, migration, and displacement, the gallery is a leading platform for artists from the region who are making their mark on the global art scene. Lawrie Shabibi also represents a number of established international artists, including Shahpour Pouyan and Kamrooz Aram.
Ayyam Gallery
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Founded in Damascus in 2006, Ayyam Gallery now has locations in Dubai, Beirut, and London. The gallery represents a laundry list of artists from the Middle East and beyond, with a focus on those who explore issues that involve conflict, displacement, and diaspora. Ayyam Gallery is particularly known for its support towards up and coming artists, providing a platform for the next generation of talent to show itself and make its voice heard.
Tashkeel
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Founded in 2008 by HH Lateefa bint Maktoum to foster contemporary art and design practice rooted in the UAE, the organization provides creative practitioners with multi-disciplinary studios, workspaces, and galleries in Nad Al Sheba and Al Fahidi, facilitating experimentation and dialogue among artists and the wider community. Tashkeel operates on an open membership model and offers a range of training, residencies, workshops, talks, exhibitions, international collaborations, and publications aimed at furthering practitioner development, public engagement, lifelong learning, and the creative and cultural industries.
