The Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival is the emirate's flagship cultural event, now celebrating its 14th edition. Set against the historic backdrop of an ancient pearling village, the 2026 festival explores the theme of "Civilizations," tracing how ancestral voices and modern innovation intersect.
This year marks a significant milestone with the launch of the inaugural Ras Al Khaimah Contemporary Art Biennale, curated by Sharon Toval.
Building on the momentum of previous editions, Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival 2026 presents a month-long programme of exhibitions, performances, workshops, guided tours, film screenings and curated culinary experiences.
Visitors can expect a diverse programme of contemporary art exhibitions featuring international artists like Sutee Kunavichayanont and Stefano Cagol. Live musical performances by artists such as Emirati vocalist AlMaydee and Grammy-nominated composer Roger Ryan. Hands-on workshops and masterclasses covering everything from Arabic calligraphy to Moroccan zellij.
And, a "Hidden Table" culinary experience featuring world-class dining from restaurants like Chama, Bungalo34, and the Michelin-starred Restaurant Pine.
The festival runs for a full month from 16th January to 8th February. To keep the experience fresh, each weekend features a specific focus:
Opening Weekend:16 to 18 January
Family and Pet Friendly: 23 to 25 January
Around the World: 30 January to 1 February
Cultural Weekend: 6 to 8 February
The heart of the festival is the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village in Ras Al Khaimah. This location is particularly significant as it is the UAE’s last remaining intact Emirati pearling village, offering an atmospheric contrast between contemporary global art and deep-rooted local history.
To truly appreciate the "Civilizations" theme, book a Heritage Tour early. While contemporary art is the main draw, these guided walks bring the 14th-century architecture of the pearling village to life, providing essential context for understanding how the modern artworks dialogue with the site's ancient spirit.
Visit: rakart.ae
Mariam Khawer is a Dubai-based writer and PR professional whose work spans food, art, and travel across the region. When she isn’t chasing deadlines, she’s likely at a gallery opening, testing out a new restaurant, piecing together one of her mixed-media art projects or at home with her four cats, who keep her on her toes.
