MANAR ABU DHABI 2025 (Until 4 January 2026)
Manar Abu Dhabi will once again illuminate the archipelagos, mangroves, and oases of the emirate of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Drawing on the Gulf’s ancestral relationship with light, this edition of Manar Abu Dhabi brings together contemporary artworks that respond to its presence, behaviour, and resonance across natural and technological forms. Set within Abu Dhabi’s diverse landscapes, The Light Compass will unfold across mangroves, sandbanks, oases, and urban edges, where artworks form a breathing constellation and become a living map shaped by reflection and relation.
Time: Open daily, 5:30 pm – 12:00 AM
Location: Al Qattara Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis
Time: Jubail Island: open daily, 5:30 pm – midnight
Souq Al Mina: Open 24 hours
Location: Jubail Island and Souq Al Mina, Abu Dhabi
Dates: 15 November 2025 – 4 January 2026
Visual Arts
ART HERE 2025 (Until 28 December 2025)
‘Art Here 2025’ at Louvre Abu Dhabi is the fifth edition of a dynamic exhibition showcasing contemporary artists based in the GCC, Japan, and MENA connected to the GCC. Focusing on sculpture and installations designed for outdoor spaces, the exhibition provides a central platform for diverse artistic expressions, supported in collaboration with Richard Mille. Running from October to December 2025, it highlights innovative practices contributing to a universal cultural dialogue.
Time: Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry: 6:00 PM)
Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM (last entry: 8:00 PM)
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
NATIVE: PLANTS IN THE UAE (31 December 2025)
The ‘Native’ exhibition explores the life conditions of each plant indigenous to the UAE’s landscape, examining the surrounding atmosphere that influences its growth and gives it unique variations in colour, texture, size, and behaviour. From the iconic Ghaf tree to the resilient desert grasses, each specimen tells a story of adaptation and survival. The exhibition features a curated collection of art installations and informative exhibits that highlight the ecological significance of these plants and trees.
Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Al Qattara Arts Centre
Entry: Free
ALA YOUNIS: PAST TEMPORAL UNIVERSE’ EXHIBITION (Until 18 January 2026)
This exhibit is a dynamic contemporary art space that showcases diverse exhibitions, fostering cultural dialogue and creativity. Open to the public, the gallery presents rotating shows and events that highlight both regional and international artists, supporting innovative artistic practices and engagement. It serves as a vital platform for exploring contemporary art within the vibrant cultural landscape of Abu Dhabi and beyond.
Time: Tuesday to Sunday 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: NYUAD Art Gallery
MAMLUKS: LEGACY OF AN EMPIRE (Until 25 January 2026)
Louvre Abu Dhabi’s “Mamluks: Legacy of an Empire” showcases over 250 exceptional works, highlighting the Mamluks’ enduring impact as formidable warriors, skilled diplomats, and masterful craftsmen. The exhibition celebrates their artistic brilliance and significant contributions to art, culture, and diplomacy during a flourishing period in the Islamic Golden Age.
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Entry: AED 65 (full price)/ AED 35 (reduced price) per person
“NJA MAHDAOUI: THE CHOREOGRAPHER OF LETTERS” (Until 25 January 2026)
Nja Mahdaoui is a pioneering Tunisian visual artist whose work has defined the field of calligraphic abstraction. Often described as a “choreographer of letters,” his practice liberates the Arabic script from linguistic meaning, transforming it into a visual, rhythmic, and poetic form. By emphasising gesture and morphology, Mahdaoui opens new aesthetic worlds that transcend cultural boundaries and invite viewers into intuitive, sensory encounters.
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Bassam Frieha Art Foundation
AND AFTER (Until 22 February 2026)
“And After” explores the element of air and its various states through the lens of Arabic terminology, specifically “Sukoon”, “Hawaa”, “Naseem”,
Time: Saturday – Thursday: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Friday: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Cultural Foundation
Entry: Free
MOHAMED AHMED IBRAHIM: TWO CLOUDS IN THE NIGHT SKY (Until 22 February 2026)
“Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim: Two Clouds in the Night Sky” is a solo exhibition celebrating the work of pioneer artist Mohamed Ahmed Ibrahim, an influential figure in the development of contemporary art in the UAE.
Time: Saturday – Thursday: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Friday: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM
Location: Cultural Foundation
Entry: Free
GOLDEN INK: A JOURNEY THROUGH ARAB AND ISLAMIC MANUSCRIPTS (Until 7 April 2026)
A flagship travelling exhibition debuting at Qasr Al Watan, curated in partnership with McGill University. The event explores the intellectual and artistic legacy of the Islamic world, presenting rare manuscripts spanning science, literature, religion, art, and philosophy from Abu Dhabi Libraries, McGill, and key UAE collections. Through academic rigour and immersive displays, including exclusive pieces from Zayed National Museum and Louvre Abu Dhabi, the exhibition celebrates the beauty and global significance of manuscript heritage while inviting audiences into a visually rich, cross-cultural dialogue that continues in Montreal in 2027.
Time: 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Location: Qasr Al Watan, House of Knowledge
Entry: Starting from AED 30 per person
ABU DHABI ART: BEYOND EMERGING ARTISTS (Until 26 April 2026)
An annual initiative supporting three emerging UAE-based artists in developing their practice and producing new work through a year-long, curator-led programme. The resulting projects are presented at Abu Dhabi Art and on international platforms. Supported by Friends of Abu Dhabi Art and sponsored by Abu Dhabi Art’s Global Partner, HSBC.
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat – Hall A (19-23 November) & Al Ain Cultural Sites: Al Ain Oasis, Al Jahili Fort, and Jebel Hafit (19 November – 26 April)
ABU DHABI ART: ARTIST COMMISSIONS IN CULTURAL SITES (Until 26 April 2026)
Launched in 2017, Abu Dhabi Art invites renowned artists to create site-specific works in historic locations across Al Ain and Abu Dhabi. These commissions activate cultural sites, engage new audiences, and remain on view beyond the fair.
Time: 9:00 AM– 5:30 PM
Location: Al Ain Museum, Al Ain Oasis, Al Hili Archaeological Park,and Al Qattara Oasis
CONSTRUCTING THE ORIENT: FRAGMENTS OF A WESTERN DREAM (Until 31 May 2026)
Constructing the Orient: Fragments of a Western Dream brings together works from Bassam Freiha Collection alongside loans from Galerie Ary Jan in Paris. Together, these two sources create a dialogue that allows the exhibition to examine how Orientalist painting was shaped by recurring archetypes and Western imagination. Seen side by side, the works offer visitors a rare opportunity to reflect on both the artistic fascination with the “Orient” and the cultural narratives that continue to resonate today.
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Bassam Freiha Art Foundation
Entry: Free
QUANTUM DOME PROJECT: A COLLECTIVE VR EXPERIENCE (Until 30 June 2026)
Immerse yourself in our new, family-friendly collective virtual reality experience.
Travel back in time through the ages and discover breathtaking
Time: Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry: 6:00 PM)
Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM (last entry: 8:00 PM)
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Entry: AED 120 (full price) / AED 95 (reduced price) per person
ABU DHABI MASTERPIECES COLLECTION: EXHIBITION-DOSSIERS (Until April 2026)
The Abu Dhabi Collection, showcased through “Exhibition-Dossiers,” presents global artworks from prehistory to the present, fostering cultural dialogue. The second series highlights Jean-
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
Entry: Free
Festivals
SHEIKH ZAYED FESTIVAL (Until 22 February 2026)
The horizons of culture are ever-expanding, its paths are diversifying, and the need for its presence is increasing as a way for peoples to come together within a framework of tolerance, brotherhood and peace. The Sheikh Zayed Festival in Abu Dhabi comes within this framework, employing all its noble values, striving and aspiring towards common human development.
Time: Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM
Location: Al Wathba, Abu Dhabi
Entry: AED 10 Per Person
Conferences
ARABIAN DAYS (13–15 December 2025)
The Arabian Days Festival celebrates language, heritage, and creativity, bringing people together in tolerance, brotherhood, and peace. A vibrant festival of identity, dialogue, and human connection.
Time: Doors open at 7:30 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
Entry: Varies
Performing Arts
TAKE THE MIC (6 December 2025)
Join the Manarat Al Saadiyat Weekly Workshops for hands-on art and cultural experiences, where families can explore creativity, try interactive activities, and celebrate the joy of learning together.
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
ARS NOVA NAPOLI (12 December 2025)
Join the Manarat Al Saadiyat Weekly Workshops for fun, hands-on art and cultural activities where families can discover new skills, enjoy creative projects, and share the excitement of learning together.
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Cultural Foundation
Entry: Starting from 75 AED per person
Age: Minimum age 6 +
MELODIES OF A GOLDEN AGE: FEATURING MOHAMEN MOHSEN, LED BY MAESTRO GEORGE KOLTA (20 December 2025)
Immerse yourself in a nostalgic musical journey as Mohamen Mohsen’s rich vocals blend with Maestro George Kolta’s elegant direction, bringing the treasured sounds of a bygone era back to life in a captivating performance.
Time: Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry: 6:00 PM)
Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM (last entry: 8:00 PM)
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
BAIT AL OUD ANNUAL CONCERT (20 December 2025)
Celebrate an evening of tradition and artistry as the talented musicians of Bait Al Oud showcase their mastery, uniting classic melodies and contemporary creativity in a powerful tribute.
Time: 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Cultural Foundation
Entry: Paid
BAIT AL OUD CHOIR REGISTRATION (Ongoing)
Join a vibrant musical community as Bait Al Oud opens its doors for new choir members, welcoming voices of all levels to learn, grow, and perform together. Discover the joy of harmonizing, refining vocal skills, and becoming part of a collective celebration of musical heritage.
Community
AL QATTARA GULF FILM DAYS (11-13 December 2025)
Al Qattara Arts Centre invites you to attend the Al Qattara Gulf Film Days to celebrate the magic of Gulf cinema, which showcases people and places in different contexts.
Time: 6:00 PM -8:00 PM
Location: Al Qattara Arts Centre
Entry: Free
HEART OF THE COMMUNITY (15 December 2025)
Heart of the Community: Connecting Al Hosn residents, sharing stories, and celebrating the spirit that unites us all.
Time: Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Friday: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Al Hosn Site
Entry: 32 AED per person
LOCAL ASEEDA: A FUWALA GATHERING (15 December 2025)
Good food, good vibes, local flavours. Come for the aseeda, stay for the laughs!
Time: Saturday to Thursday: 9:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Friday: 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Al Hosn Site
Entry: 32 AED per person
WINTER CAMP AT ABU DHABI CHILDREN’S LIBRARY (8-18 December 2025)
Let young minds explore, discover, and create this winter as the Children’s Library invites kids to an engaging camp filled with stories, activities, and hands-on learning. It’s a warm, imaginative escape where curiosity grows, and every day brings a new adventure.
Time: Varied
Location: Cultural Foundation
Age: 1- 14 years
Entry: Free
WINTER ART CAMP AT CHILDREN’S ART CENTRE (8 – 25 December 2025)
Spark creativity this winter as young artists dive into hands-on projects, playful learning, and imaginative activities. The Children’s Art Centre invites kids to explore new skills, express themselves freely, and enjoy a fun-filled artistic adventure all season long.
Time: 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Location: Cultural Foundation
Age: 5 – 12 years
Entry: 210 AED per week per person
AL QATTARA WINTER CAMP (15 – 18 & 22 – 25 December 2025)
Take part in the Al Qattara Winter Camp, offering children the opportunity to explore crafts like wool hanging, clay building, and fabric printing in a heritage-rich art centre.
Time: Morning 9:00 am–12:00 pm
Afternoon 1:00 pm–4:00 pm
Location: Al Qattara Arts Centre
Age Group: 4–12 years old
Entry: 315 AED
ART STUDIO – WINTER CAMP (8-26 December 2025)
Spark creativity, explore new ideas, and make art this winter at the Art Studio’s exciting camp. Dive into painting, sculpture, and hands-on projects in a playful, inspiring environment where every day brings a fresh artistic adventure.
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
Entry: Varied
WINTER CAMP AT LOUVRE ABU DHABI (9-26 December 2025)
Spark creativity this winter at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Kids can dive into art, crafts, and even space-themed fun, hands-on, playful, and full of inspiration.
Time: Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM (last entry: 6:00 PM)
Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM (last entry: 8:00 PM)
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Entry: AED 120 (full price) / AED 95 (reduced price) per person
URBAN MARKET (26 – 28 December 2025)
Urban Market Concept is back at Madinat Al Saadiyat for one last three-day mega market before the new year. Food, fashion, fun, don’t miss it!
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
LIWA FORTS WINTER DELIGHTS (Until 3 January 2026)
The historic Liwa Forts come alive with curated culinary experiences and distinctive food and beverage offerings.
Time: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM
Location: Liwa Forts
Entry: Free
AL-QOMRA PHOTOGRAPHY MEET UPS (Ongoing)
Al-Qomra Photography Meet Ups is a bi-weekly program at Manarat Al Saadiyat
Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
COFFEE BREAK AT DELMA MUSEUM (Every Tuesday)
Time: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Location: Delma Museum
LIVING HISTORY (Every Tuesday and Thursday)
Step back in time and experience Emirati heritage firsthand. Every Tuesday and Thursday, explore traditions, crafts, and cultural stories brought to life.
Time: Monday – Thursday 10 AM – 6 PM
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 2:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Al Hosn Site
ART IN MOTION: FILM SCREENINGS (Until 27 May 2026)
Experience cinema inspired by art. Curated films, thought-provoking stories, and immersive screenings.
Time: 7:00 PM
Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi
Entry: Free, booking required
Workshops
EDUCATIONAL WORKSHOPS (6 – 27 December 2025)
Step into the world of discovery! Our museum workshops turn curiosity into action, letting you explore, experiment, and learn hands-on. From puzzling dilemmas to interactive challenges, every session spark imagination and opens minds, fun for all ages!
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Delma Museum
Entry: Free
AL QATTARA ART WORKSHOPS (Until 31 December 2025)
Enjoy a series of workshops and courses for the entire family, giving arts enthusiasts the chance to immerse themselves in the creative arts scene.
Time: 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Location: Al Qattara Arts Centre
Entry: Tickets Vary
PROGRAMMES AT ABU DHABI CHILDREN’S LIBRARY (Until 31 December 2025)
Enter a world of imagination where your children can explore books and engage in library activities that encourage your child’s creativity.
Time: Times Vary – Open Daily
Location: Cultural Foundation
Age: 1-14 Years Old
Entry: Free
ACTIVITIES AND WORKSHOPS AT MAKTABA BRANCHES (Until 31 December 2025)
Maktaba is hosting a series of engaging and informative workshops.
Time: Times vary
Location: Locations Vary
Entry: Tickets vary
ART WORKSHOPS (Until 31 December 2025)
Unleash your creativity at our Art Workshops! Dive into colors, shapes, and imagination as you paint, sculpt, and create your own masterpieces. Fun, hands-on, and inspiring, perfect for artists of all ages!
Time: Varied
Location: Cultural foundation
Entry: Varied
AL QOMRA PHOTOGRAPHY WORKSHOPS (Ongoing)
Capture the world through a new lens with Al Qomra Photography Workshops. Whether you’re a beginner or a budding pro, our hands-on sessions bring your creativity to life. Learn techniques, explore perspectives, and turn every moment into a stunning story.
Time: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
ART STUDIO WORKSHOPS & DROP-IN SESSIONS (Daily)
Art Studio at Manarat Al Saadiyat is a multi-disciplinary arts space that offers hands-on arts education programmes, art classes, drop-in sessions, workshops, and outreach initiatives for students, adults, children, and families in the emirate.
Time: Times vary
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat
Entry: Tickets vary