Here's everything we know about World Art Dubai 2026.
World Art Dubai returns for its 12th edition from 19–22 November 2026 at its new location, Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City. Bringing together over 10,000 contemporary artworks from 400 galleries and solo artists - representing more than 65 countries. Expect an expanded programme of exhibitions and live experiences, both indoors and outdoors.
The event is an excellent opportunity to connect directly with creators and explore a variety of mediums, including contemporary painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media and digital art.
A team of four curators will lead the 2026 edition. Rachael Brown, a creative director and co-founder of Capsule Arts, focuses on regional artist development and boutique curation. Stéphane de Boysson provides an international perspective as a mixed media artist and collector known for his work in sculpture. Gottfried Eisenberger, an Austrian artist and gallery owner, contributes with his experience in the European art market and fine art exhibition. And, Samar Kamel, an Egyptian artist, author and curator, brings her deep knowledge of the Middle Eastern creative landscape and emerging trends.
Together, these curators have selected works with artistic integrity to offer depth for seasoned collectors, while ensuring the fair remains accessible to new buyers. Their vision for this edition prioritises bridging the gap between global trends and local heritage.
The 2026 fair will include several new sections focusing on visitor journey.
For the first time, World Art Dubai will launch PhotoWAD, which is a dedicated platform focusing entirely on photography and lens-based practices. This segment will bring together regional and international photographers to highlight contemporary techniques.
Following a successful turnout in 2025, this year the Textile Hub will return for its second edition. This section of the art event will highlight material experimentation, contemporary textile art and traditional craftsmanship. Here you will be able to explore woven art and innovative designs that use fabric as a primary medium.
The hub will also feature immersive displays and allows guests to see how artists manipulate threads and textiles to create complex structures.
The area will also host hands-on sessions. Visitors can learn about the history of textile art in the region while trying modern techniques.
World Art Dubai heavily focuses on the growth of the regional art scene.
If you are newly exploring the art world, then WAD Mentorship Programme is a segment to consider participating in. The programme will return with industry icons, including Dr Najat Makki, Abdulraheem Salim and Rashid Al Mulla leading the way and providing guidance to emerging artists.
The art event will also support young talent through the WAD Future Artists initiative. This programme will spotlight students and early-career artists from various backgrounds. It will give them a platform to display their work to a large audience and connect with professional galleries.
Visitors can discover large public art installations and sculptures. These pieces transform the business district into an open-air gallery, bringing art to urban spaces.
Inside the halls, the Artist in Residence programme will offer an exclusive opportunity. Selected artists will create their work live, allowing the audience to watch the creative process from start to finish. Visitors can engage with these artists, while they work, to get a deeper understanding of the effort behind each work.
The 2026 programme will include free workshops for families, young artists and professionals.
Professionals can also find sessions designed to improve their technical skills or business knowledge. The workshops run at various times throughout the day, ensuring everyone has a chance to participate.
Visit: worldartdubai.com
Evangeline Elsa is a Dubai-based journalist with 15 years of experience. She enjoys telling success stories and writing on lifestyle, arts, interiors, F&B, and Korean culture. A homebody at heart, she paints, sings, reads Substacks, and dotes on her rescue dog, Pepper.
