Set against the striking backdrop of Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village - a beautifully preserved site that provides the perfect setting for this year’s theme: Memory.
In its 13th year, Ras Al Khaimah Arts Festival brings together over 200 local and international artists, the festival invites visitors to explore the power of recollection, nostalgia, and personal storytelling through art. Expect a captivating mix of large-scale installations, immersive performances, hands-on workshops, and open-air film screenings—all woven into the cultural fabric of Ras Al Khaimah.
The festival unfolds within Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, an abandoned pearling settlement that now serves as an open-air museum. With its winding alleys, centuries-old coral-stone houses, and evocative atmosphere, the village provides an immersive setting for exploring memory through contemporary artistic interpretations.
Visitors can expect a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor exhibits, where artworks are carefully placed within courtyards, narrow pathways, and hidden alcoves—creating an experience that feels more like a journey of discovery than a traditional exhibition.
Explore Large-Scale Installations and Immersive Art Throughout RAK Art 2025, the historic village transforms into a vibrant canvas of memory and artistic expression. Highlights include:
Art takes on new dimensions at RAK Art 2025, with a dynamic programme of spoken word, experimental theatre, live music, and immersive soundscapes.
For those looking to engage creatively, the festival offers an exciting lineup of interactive workshops across various mediums. Attendees can explore experimental printmaking and ceramics with sessions such as Painting on Palm Tree Frond by Ghaleya Almansoor (21 February) and Ceramic House Buildingby Shatha Al Rubaei (22 February). Delve into mixed-media experiences exploring personal and cultural heritage, including Colouring Black and White Photographs by Anna Jopp (23 February). View the full workshop schedule and secure a spot in advance.
Gain deeper insight into the connection between art and memory through a series of engaging talks led by renowned artists, curators, and cultural thinkers. Notably, Green Recollections: Nurturing Ecological Memory (22 February) explores the intersection of ecological practices and artistic storytelling, highlighting how nature and creativity intertwine to preserve collective memory.
For cinema enthusiasts, the festival presents a curated selection of films celebrating culture, memory, and creativity in collaboration with VOX Cinemas.
Beyond the festival grounds, visitors can embark on Guided Art and Heritage Tours for a deeper dive into Ras Al Khaimah’s cultural landscape. Options include:
Extend your stay to discover The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah, Dhayah Fort, Al Hamra Marina and Yacht Club, Suwaidi Pearls Farm, and Jebel Jais, home to breathtaking views and the world’s longest zipline.
Visit: rakart.ae
As a writer and editor, Athwifa is passionate about crafting stories that transport readers. She specializes in creating engaging content for the lifestyle, art, and travel sectors, with a particular focus on the hospitality and food & beverage industries. Her editorial work brings unique perspectives to life, turning experiences into captivating narratives.
