Dubai is getting ready to host the 12th edition of World Art Dubai from November 19 to 22, 2026, at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Bringing together artists and galleries from around the world, the exhibition will offer visitors a chance to discover original artworks, explore different creative styles, and connect directly with the artists behind them.<\/p>\n
Held under the theme “Where the World’s Art Comes Together,” this year’s exhibition will feature more than 10,000 artworks presented by over 300 exhibitors from 65 countries, including more than 200 independent artists and 65 galleries. Visitors can expect a wide selection of paintings, sculptures, photography, digital art, mixed media, and installations. The variety of works reflects different cultural influences and artistic approaches, bringing traditional forms of expression together with contemporary creativity.<\/p>\n
World Art Dubai continues to attract art enthusiasts and collectors, following a 28% increase in artwork sales last year. The growth reflects rising interest in purchasing original art, whether for personal collections or to enhance homes, hotels, and commercial spaces. This year, organizers are placing greater emphasis on making art accessible to different types of buyers, from first-time collectors to those with years of experience. Visitors will also have opportunities to speak directly with artists, learn about their work, and find pieces that suit their tastes.<\/p>\n
The upcoming exhibition builds on the success of its 11th edition, held in April 2025, which brought together more than 400 artists and over 120 galleries from 65 countries, showcasing upwards of 10,000 artworks. The previous edition also featured a lively program of performances and creative activities. It concluded with awards recognizing artists, galleries, and educational institutions across 16 categories, providing further recognition for creative talent on an international stage.<\/p>\n
Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President of Exhibitions at Dubai World Trade Centre, said: “World Art Dubai has become a meeting place for artists, galleries, and art lovers from around the world. As we prepare to launch the 12th edition, we are focusing on strengthening this international presence, creating new opportunities for artists to connect with a wider audience, and offering diverse experiences that bring art closer to visitors and make it more relevant to their interests.”<\/p>\n
She added: “The 28% increase in artwork sales last year reflects the growing interest in collecting art. We look forward to maintaining this momentum by bringing together diverse artistic perspectives and styles under one roof and presenting works that allow both new and experienced collectors to discover pieces that match their tastes and interests.”<\/p>\n
There is more to World Art Dubai than simply viewing paintings and sculptures. Across its four-day run, the exhibition will offer workshops, panel discussions, live art performances, and interactive activities that invite visitors to take part in the creative process. Photography will have its own dedicated space through the PhotoWAD platform, while the Emerging Artist Award will continue to provide rising talents with an opportunity to present their work to a wider audience.<\/p>\n
The exhibition is also building on activities introduced in previous editions. In 2025, a dedicated textile art section featured 14 artists from nine countries, giving visitors an opportunity to explore different artistic techniques. For the 2026 edition, November 22 will be dedicated to families, with hands-on workshops and creative activities designed for children. The program will combine learning with entertainment, encouraging younger visitors to discover their artistic interests and express their ideas in imaginative ways.<\/p>\n
Emirati artists will have a dedicated pavilion at this year’s exhibition, giving local talent a space to present their work to an international audience and connect with collectors and potential buyers. The initiative continues the exhibition’s support for homegrown creativity. During the 2025 edition, 50 Emirati artists participated in a special pavilion that highlighted local artistic talent, bringing together established names and creative voices from different generations.<\/p>\n
Support for participating artists will extend beyond the four days of the exhibition through the Artist Residency Program. The initiative offers artists opportunities to develop new creative projects, collaborate with selected hotels in Dubai, and reach audiences beyond the exhibition venue. It also helps participants build professional connections and expand their presence in the creative sector.<\/p>\n
World Art Dubai 2026 is supported by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) as its strategic partner, reinforcing efforts to promote local talent and strengthen the connection between the arts and Dubai’s growing creative economy.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
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