It’s officially “winter” in the UAE, which means the city is buzzing with energy, and the cultural scene is in full swing. Art lovers from all around the world are making their way here, local talent is thriving, and creativity seems to be everywhere you look. From the edgy vibes of Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue to the timeless charm of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah’s art institutions, this season is packed with exhibitions that prove the UAE is the place to be for all things artsy.
Dubai
House of Pearls – The Third Line
At The Third Line, a cornerstone of the UAE’s art scene since 2005, introspection takes center stage. This month, the gallery is hosting House of Pearls, a solo exhibition by Iraqi-American artist Vian Sora. After moving to Dubai in the aftermath of the US invasion of Iraq, Sora uses her art to explore the complexities of displacement, identity, and resilience. Her works are built up with layer upon layer of texture—sometimes as many as 70, using over 20 colors—giving them a rich, luminous quality, much like a pearl. Her pieces beautifully capture the delicate balance between fragility and strength.
Where: The Third Line, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai
When: Until Dec. 5, 2024
Yellow Tropics – Tabari Artspace
A trailblazing gallery since 2003, Tabari Artspace is all about showcasing the Gulf’s blend of traditional crafts and contemporary perspectives. Its current exhibition, Yellow Tropics, shines a spotlight on Egyptian artist Adel El Siwi and his evolving exploration of identity. The collection is bathed in bold turmeric hues, reflecting El Siwi’s journey to reclaim African identity. From biblical figures to angular animal forms, each piece feels like a chapter in his story of cultural rediscovery.
Where: Tabari Artspace, Dubai
When: Until Jan. 6, 2025
The Land and I – Zawyeh Gallery
Palestinian artist Nabil Anani’s work is a love letter to his homeland. The Land and I at Zawyeh Gallery showcases textured paintings that seamlessly marry landscape and identity. Through organic materials like straw, seeds, and wood, Anani’s art depicts the Palestinian terrain, emphasizing the inseparability of people and place.
Where: Zawyeh Gallery, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai
When: Until Jan. 12, 2025
Sambadio – Efie Gallery
Abdoulaye Konaté’s Sambadio at Efie Gallery celebrates the interconnectedness of West African and Middle Eastern traditions through monumental textile installations. Drawing inspiration from Malian musician Ali Farka Touré’s ode to farmers, Konaté uses woven and dyed cloths native to Mali to craft works that resonate with the rhythms of heritage and sustainability.
Where: Efie Gallery, Al Khayat Art Avenue, Dubai
When: Until January 2025
Abu Dhabi
Post-Impressionism: Beyond Appearances – Louvre Abu Dhabi
Art enthusiasts can revel in the beauty of post-impressionist masterpieces at Post-Impressionism: Beyond Appearances. Featuring icons like Van Gogh’s Bedroom in Arles and Cézanne’s Portrait of Madam Cézanne, the exhibition explores themes of emotion, perception, and the intangible. Curated in collaboration with Paris’s Musée d’Orsay, this showcase is a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in moments of art history.
Where: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island
When: Until Feb. 9, 2025
Between the Tides – NYU Abu Dhabi Art Gallery
This intimate exhibition explores the ever-changing landscapes of Gulf societies. Between the Tides brings together works from 21 artists, tackling themes like ecological challenges, urban development, and cultural heritage. Together, these pieces tell the story of a region’s evolving artistic identity.
Where: NYU Abu Dhabi Art Gallery
When: Until Dec. 8, 2024
Sharjah
Vantage Point Sharjah 12 – Sharjah Art Foundation
The Sharjah Art Foundation’s Vantage Point series, now in its 12th edition, takes its cue from the evocative poetry of Mahmoud Darwish. This year, emerging artists use experimental photography to explore themes of history, memory, and personal experience, creating a powerful collection of visual storytelling that leaves a lasting impact.
Where: Arts Square, Sharjah
When: Until Dec. 8, 2024
