World Art Dubai (WAD) returns for its 11th edition from April 17–20, 2025, at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), bringing together more than 400 artists and galleries from over 65 countries. The four-day event is set to offer a vibrant mix of art, culture, and community, further cementing Dubai’s position as a global cultural and creative hub.
A Thriving International Art Platform
Now a key fixture in the global art calendar, World Art Dubai continues to evolve, attracting a growing number of returning artists and galleries. With each edition, the fair strengthens its identity as more than just an exhibition—serving as a dynamic platform that connects creators with collectors, curators, and creative professionals from around the world.
“As the fair expands, so too does our global community of artists and collectors,” said Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, DWTC. “We’re excited to welcome the world back to Dubai for what promises to be our most engaging edition yet.”
New Initiatives for Enhanced Engagement
To elevate the experience for both visitors and exhibitors, WAD 2025 introduces two major new programmes:
- VIP Preview: An exclusive, invite-only event that provides early access to collectors and art buyers, encouraging direct connections with artists and stimulating commercial activity within the UAE art market.
- Hosted Buyer Programme: A matchmaking initiative aimed at facilitating focused, interest-driven meetings between collectors and galleries, promoting strategic art acquisitions and network growth.
Expanding Global Reach with New Pavilions
This year, World Art Dubai expands its international scope by introducing new national pavilions from Zimbabwe, Mongolia, Australia, and Estonia, offering visitors a richer exploration of global creativity. These pavilions will showcase everything from contemporary African art to nomadic traditions and bold street murals.
The debut of the Emirati Pavilion and Philippines Pavilion highlights regional talent and cultural diversity, while expanded showcases from Turkey and the UAE reflect the fair’s rising influence and growing appeal to collectors and designers across the world.
Cultural Programming in Partnership with Dubai Culture
As a strategic partner, Dubai Culture will curate a dynamic programme including live art, youth-focused workshops, cultural panels, and interactive experiences such as calligraphy and printmaking. These activations aim to bridge traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques, engaging the public and spotlighting homegrown talent.
New Additions and Returning Highlights
World Art Dubai 2025 also introduces several standout features:
- The Textile Hub: A new space dedicated to textile art, showcasing its craftsmanship through live demos and interactive workshops.
- Public Art Initiative with One Central: Large-scale installations will be placed across Dubai’s urban landscape, extending the fair’s influence beyond the venue and making art more accessible to the public.
- Artist in Residence Programme: Returning this year, this initiative offers international artists the chance to create and exhibit work in Dubai, reinforcing the city’s status as a cultural capital.
- WAD Around the World – Country of Honour: China: In 2025, China will be the featured nation, with a dedicated pavilion showcasing traditional and modern Chinese art, alongside live performances that foster cross-cultural exchange.
With new features, expanded global participation, and deeper community engagement, World Art Dubai 2025 is poised to deliver an immersive cultural experience for collectors, creatives, and the public alike.
Backed by Knightsbridge Group as the legal sponsor and ANAX Developments as the official property sponsor, the event continues to play a key role in shaping Dubai’s creative economy and supporting its vision as a global center for arts and culture.
