ArtMap 31st Edition Launches To Spotlight Dubai Culture And UAE Arts Scene

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has released the 31st edition of ArtMap, created with thejamjar, outlining key cultural festivals, exhibitions, and initiatives across Dubai and the wider UAE. The issue highlights Dubai Art Season, which runs from 21st January to 26th April 2026, and brings together varied artistic, cultural, and entertainment events across the emirate.

Dubai Art Season is held under the patronage of H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture. The programme gathers institutions, independent spaces, and creative professionals, offering residents and visitors many opportunities to engage with art, design, and culture in different neighbourhoods and venues throughout Dubai.

The new ArtMap edition functions as a practical guide for the cultural community, presenting an organised overview of major events taking place in early 2026. It covers activity across Dubai and other emirates, enabling artists, curators, collectors, and general audiences to track exhibitions, festivals, and programmes that shape the UAE’s creative calendar during this period.

Extensive space is given to large-scale festivals and public programmes. These include the 14th Sikka Art & Design Festival, organised by Dubai Culture in the Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, and Quoz Arts Fest, organised by Alserkal Avenue with strategic support and partnership from Dubai Culture and the Al Quoz Creative Zone, alongside World Art Dubai highlights.

ArtMap 31 introduces a new section titled ‘Artist to Celebrate’, which features Dr Najat Makki and a solo exhibition at the House of Arts in Expo City Dubai. The ‘Artists’ Spotlight’ section examines the practices of Ranim Alhalaky and Ziad Al Najjar, whose works present varied contemporary viewpoints and artistic methods within the UAE context.

The publication also presents ‘Curator in Focus’, which looks at artist and curator Nasser Abdullah. This section outlines how Nasser Abdullah supports artists, develops curatorial projects, and contributes to the wider cultural ecosystem, reflecting Dubai Culture’s interest in documenting individuals who strengthen the emirate’s artistic scene.

Beyond Dubai Art Season, the guide references several other initiatives. These include RAK Art Festival, the fifth edition of Night School at Jameel Arts Centre titled ‘Pardon Our Progress’, and Creative Career Days in February under the theme ‘Art as a Voice: How Do You Use It?’, which explores pathways for future creative professionals.

Dubai Culture presents ArtMap 31 as part of wider efforts to build sustainable creative environments and provide platforms for artists and entrepreneurs. By mapping events and spotlighting practitioners, the Authority supports the growth of cultural and creative industries while reinforcing Dubai’s standing as a regional centre for culture, creativity, and talent.

With inputs from WAM