If you had them marked in your diary, it’s time to pencil in the new ones.
Art Dubai
Photo credit: Art Dubai Instagram
New dates: May 14 to 17, 2026
Earlier in March, Art Dubai announced that they will be shifting their event during an unprecedented time for the UAE and for the well-being of their artists, galleries, collectors and partners in the country and across the region.
On March 19, based on careful consideration, Art Dubai announced it is moving the festival to May 14 to 17, 2026. It added it will take place in an adapted format at Madinat Jumeirah.
It stated, ‘This edition will take the form of a more focused and flexible format, bringing together galleries, artists and institutions through a combination of presentations, collaborations and public programming.’
World Art Dubai
New dates: November 19 to 22, 2026
World Art Dubai is one of the UAE’s biggest and most accessible contemporary art fairs held in Dubai. It brings together thousands of artworks and hundreds of artists and galleries from around the world in one space, making it a major highlight of the city’s cultural calendar. Yes, that means if you see a work of art at this exhibition and your budget allows, you can take it home with you. Last year, the fair brought together over 400 local and international exhibitors across 120 galleries.
It was meant to take place in April 2026, but the festival announced new dates during a more favourable time and better market conditions. The new dates in November align strategically with its goal to evolve into a larger festival-style art experience. It also has a new venue this year at Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City.
The new edition will enable both indoor and outdoor activations, enhance international participation, and create stronger commercial and engagement opportunities for artists and galleries.
Bluewaters Art Festival
New dates: Q4 2026, Dates TBA
In 2025, Dubai was graced by yet another art festival for the first time, Bluewaters Art Festival. It was a nine-day art festival that added a splash of colour to the city’s prominent waterfront destination. It featured over 20 awe-inspiring murals, interactive installations, live performances, and hands-on workshops.
It was initially set to return for its second edition in April, but an update shared that it will now take place in Q4 of 2026.
What we do know is that the second edition will transform the island into an open-air gallery featuring international talents and homegrown artists, immersive installations and activations, and intricate pieces set against the Dubai skyline and waterfront views.
Images: Supplied and Instagram
