Manar Abu Dhabi Unveils Public Light Art Exhibition Featuring 22 Unique Artworks Across The Emirate

Manar Abu Dhabi, a renowned public light art exhibition organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), has expanded across the emirate for its second edition. Following a successful debut in Al Ain earlier this month, it now features 15 Emirati and international artists from 10 countries. The exhibition includes 22 site-specific light sculptures, projections, and immersive installations that celebrate Abu Dhabi’s diverse landscapes.

This year's theme, ‘The Light Compass’, draws inspiration from the Gulf’s historical connection with light. Jubail Island serves as the main venue, showcasing 15 large-scale installations and performances by artists such as Shaikha Al Mazrou, Iregular, Ezequiel Pini (known as Six N. Five), Encor Studio, DRIFT, Pamela Tan, Lachlan Turczan, Christian Brinkmann, and Kirsten Berg. These artists present innovative approaches to light-based art.

For the first time, Manar Abu Dhabi extends to Al Ain's cultural sites listed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List. Visitors can explore seven site-specific works along the Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oasis Trails. Contributions come from Maitha Hamdan, Ammar Al Attar, Christian Brinkmann, Khalid Shafar, Abdalla Almulla, and Rafael Lozano-Hemmer.

At Souq Al Mina, KAWS collaborates with AllRightsReserved to present KAWS:HOLIDAY Abu Dhabi. This luminous COMPANION sculpture reclines while lifting a glowing moon. It highlights the exhibition’s exploration of light and imagination. Manar Abu Dhabi also offers a dynamic public programme combining art, technology, and community engagement.

Visitors can attend thought-provoking talks and keynote lectures featuring artists. Interactive workshops are led by partners like Fujifilm, The Knot, and Gracia Farms. International acts such as Bedouin Burger, Haepaary, and Ars Nova Napoli perform alongside wellness activities like guided meditations and nature walks.

Culinary Delights and Free Events

In collaboration with WE ARE ONA and Luca Pronzato, Manar Abu Dhabi presents an immersive dining experience by guest chef Solemann Haddad from Michelin-starred restaurant Moonrise. Many talks and performances are free of charge. Workshops complement the exhibition’s programme with guided tours at Jubail Island.

Food and beverage pop-ups enhance the experience at Al Qattara Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis. These elements create a fully immersive environment for visitors to enjoy art in various forms while exploring Abu Dhabi's rich cultural heritage through light-based installations.

The exhibition successfully combines creativity with community engagement through its diverse offerings. By integrating art with technology and nature-focused experiences, it provides an enriching platform for both local residents and international visitors to appreciate contemporary art in unique settings across the emirate.

With inputs from WAM