Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has officially announced the launch of Dubai Art Season 2026, a major cultural programme running from 21 January to 26 April 2026. Held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture, the season will showcase Dubai’s position as a leading global centre for art, culture, and creative industries. This year’s programme brings together a wide range of artistic, literary, musical, and design events across the emirate, offering residents and visitors access to world-class cultural experiences.
Dubai Art Season 2026 is presented under the theme “Take a walk on the art side”, encouraging audiences to explore creativity across different disciplines and locations. The season opens with the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, taking place from 21 to 27 January 2026 at InterContinental Dubai Festival City. Now in its 12th edition, the fair offers accessible artworks for new and experienced collectors alike, supporting emerging artists and encouraging art appreciation.
Throughout January and March, Dubai Opera will host a series of musical and theatrical performances featuring regional and international artists. Dubai Culture will also present “Observers of Change”, a major retrospective exhibition at Etihad Museum, running until 30 June 2026. Dubai Culture will sponsor dedicated platforms that spotlight Emirati writers and translators, supporting cultural dialogue and local talent.
On 24 and 25 January, Alserkal Avenue will host the popular Al Quoz Arts Fest in the Al Quoz Creative Zone. The exhibition showcases around 60 artworks from the Barjeel Art Foundation, tracing the development of artistic practice in the UAE since 1971. Additional highlights include “Birds of Verse”, an exhibition organised by L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts, exploring connections between Islamic art and Western jewelry, alongside immersive experiences at Arte Museum in Dubai Mall and year-round digital art programmes at the Theatre of Digital Art.
Commenting on the season, Saleh Shukri AlBreiki, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communication at Dubai Culture, said that Dubai Art Season plays a vital role in strengthening the city’s creative industries, supporting cultural tourism, and positioning Dubai as a global hub for culture and talent. Dubai Art Season 2026 highlights the emirate’s ambition to nurture creativity, celebrate cultural diversity, and offer meaningful artistic experiences that connect communities and inspire future generations.
Under the theme “The Future, the Past and the Present”, the fair will feature more than 100 galleries from 35 countries, with a strong focus on contemporary and digital art. Shortly after, World Art Dubai will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre from 22 to 26 April 2026. Supported by Dubai Culture, the festival will feature live music, art exhibitions, creative showcases, workshops, and family-friendly activities, creating a vibrant cultural atmosphere for all ages.
Meanwhile, the Sikka Art & Design Festival returns for its 14th edition from 23 January to 1 February 2026 at the Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood. Art Dubai, celebrating its 20th edition, will take place at Madinat Jumeirah from 18 to 20 April 2026. Now in its 18th edition and ranked among the world’s top literary festivals, the event will welcome writers, thinkers, and creatives from around the globe. The programme includes talks, readings, interactive sessions, and special highlights such as Desert Stanzas and Arabian Nights: Poetry and Law.
