#Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #Manar Abu Dhabi #Light Art

Manar Abu Dhabi 2025: A Celebration of Light Art

The much-anticipated second edition of Manar Abu Dhabi, organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism in Abu Dhabi, is set to take place from November 1, 2025, to January 4, 2026. This public light art exhibition aims to promote artistic creativity while paying homage to the diverse landscapes of the emirate, featuring 15 artists and art collectives from 10 different countries.

The exhibition, subtitled “The Light Compass,” will showcase 23 artworks including light sculptures, projections, and immersive installations created specifically for unique locations. The event has gained acclaim for integrating technology and art, inviting visitors to experience both cultural and natural beauty.

Key Locations of the Exhibition

Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 will be hosted at four key sites including the Jubail Island, Souq Al Mina, and for the first time, Al Ain. Each location has been chosen for its significant cultural and environmental attributes, setting a remarkable backdrop for the installations.

At Jubail Island, visitors will find 15 installations that celebrate the island’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Notable artworks include EDEN (2025) by Malaysian artist Pamela Poh, featuring suspended glass spheres illuminated at night, and UNFOLD (2025) by DRIFT, a Dutch studio, which transforms biometric data from visitors into ephemeral soundscapes and floral imagery. Additionally, Emirati sculptor Shaikha Al Mazrou will present a monumental installation, CONTINGENT OBJECT (2025), that evolves with time, demonstrating the interaction of art and nature.

Al Ain’s lush oases of Al Qattara and Al Jimi will be transformed into captivating paths featuring light installations inspired by local heritage. Works like TRANSLATION STREAM (2023) by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, will reimagine Emirati poetry through an engaging visual experience. Moreover, PULSE CANOPY (2025) will dynamically respond to visitors’ heartbeats, creating a personal interaction between art and audience.

In the Souq Al Mina, the iconic street will see the return of American artist KAWS with KAWS HOLIDAY Abu Dhabi COMPANION, a larger-than-life installation that embodies the fusion of contemporary art and cultural significance.

Conclusion: A Hub for Creativity

Manar Abu Dhabi is not just an exhibition; it’s an opportunity for artists from various backgrounds to collaborate and innovate. By showcasing how light can be a medium for impactful storytelling, the exhibition promises to capture both the imagination and the hearts of those attending.

The Department of Culture and Tourism aims to position Abu Dhabi as a leading international destination for cultural tourism, supporting sustainable growth in creative sectors and enhancing the emirate’s global image. Stay tuned for this incredible celebration of light and creativity that will illuminate the landscapes of Abu Dhabi!