A special edition of Art Dubai took place from 15-17 May 2026 (preview 14 May) at Madinat Jumeirah, foregrounding the galleries, institutions, and communities that have shaped the region’s art market and cultural scene.
Programme
Reflecting on the fair’s 20-year history, while being rooted in the present moment, this year’s edition showcased leading local, regional and international galleries alongside artist commissions and special collaborations with the UAE’s leading institutions.
EXHIBITORS
Spanning a range of contemporary, modern and digital practices, the gallery presentations reflected Art Dubai’s continued commitment to bridging regional practices with global contexts.
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TALKS
The daily programme of talks brought together leading artists, curators, researchers and collectors, spotlighting voices across disciplines who shape the region’s cultural conversation.
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DUBAI COLLECTION
Dubai’s first collection of modern and contemporary art presented Moving Forward, an exhibition drawn from over 20 private collections with key artworks from Kamala Ibrahim Ishaq, Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim, Brahim Dhahak and Leila Nseir.
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UNWRITTEN POETRY
Unwritten was a live literary programme that brought together spoken word, storytelling and community-led participation across the fair. Through poetry performances, live writing activations and open-mic sessions, the programme created space for reflection, connection and shared experience.
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POP-UP STORE BY LOCAL CREATIVES
First launched at Art Dubai in 2011, DXB Store returned with newly produced works and objects by UAE-based creatives, including artists Talal Al Najjar and Jumairy, designer Zaid Farouki and others. Alongside, there was a selection of art and design publications, gifts and editions from the Art Jameel Shop.
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LISTENING BAR
Madinat Jumeirah became a sonic sanctuary. Designed by impaire, powered by Raw Music Store, and programmed by Vinyl Souk, the Listening Bar brought together guided vinyl sessions, live acts, and DJs across the fair’s four days.
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Special Projects
Complementing the gallery presentations, this special edition of Art Dubai presented an ambitious programme of commissions, large-scale installations, exhibitions, performances and screenings, delivered in partnership with the UAE’s leading galleries and cultural institutions.









