Manar Abu Dhabi's Second Edition to Showcase Global Light Art Artists

Manar Abu Dhabi 2025: A Celebration of Light and Creativity

Scheduled to run from November 1, 2025, to January 4, 2026, in Al Ain and from November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026, in Abu Dhabi, the second edition of Manar Abu Dhabi promises to transform the region into a vibrant canvas of light art. Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism of Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), this public exhibition aims to showcase creativity and celebrate the diverse landscapes of the emirate.

An Array of Artists and Installations

Manar Abu Dhabi will unite 15 artists along with their collectives from 10 countries, presenting a total of 23 artworks. The exhibition includes site-specific light sculptures, immersive installations, and projections. Curated by Khai Hori and supported by notable co-curators including Alia Zaal Lootah, Munira Al Sayegh, and Mariam Alshehhi, this year’s theme, "The Compass of Light," delves into contemporary art that utilizes light as both a guiding and poetic medium.

Among the highlighted locations for the event are the Jubail Island, the Al Mina Souk, and for the first time, Al Ain. Unique paths will be dedicated to the stunning oases of Al Qattara and Al Jimi, enriching the viewer's experience with the natural beauty inherent to Abu Dhabi.

The main venue, Jubail Island, will buzz with engaging artworks where visitors can meander along extensive walkways through mangroves and interact with various installations. One of the promising pieces is EDEN (2025) by Malaysian artist Pamela Poh, featuring large-scale outdoor installations made of steel structures and illuminated glass spheres.

Further, the renowned multidisciplinary studio DRIFT from the Netherlands will present UNFOLD (2025), an installation that converts visitors' biometric data into ephemeral flowers and soundscapes, while WHISPERS (2025) will deliver an enchanting experience of lights gently swaying in response to the air currents.

Artists Making Waves

Eminent Emirati sculptor Shaikha Al Mazrou's CONTINGENT OBJECT (2025) will be an impressive circular land art installation that evolves over time as water crystallizes into a disc of salt. Alongside these, Montreal-based digital art studio Iregular will exhibit four interactive installations utilizing artificial intelligence and data visualization.

In Al Ain, the landscapes of Al Qattara and Al Jimi will transform through dedicated light installation paths, offering visitors a unique chance to immerse in art reflective of the rich cultural heritage of the region. Works such as TRANSLATION STREAM (2023) by Rafael Lozano-Hemmer will showcase poems from contemporary Emirati poets, painting a lyrical flow of narrative that captivates the audience.

Cultural Significance and Mission

Manar Abu Dhabi aims to inspire creativity and appreciation for the emirate’s diverse environments by promoting a platform for artistic expression and innovation. DCT Abu Dhabi continues to nurture Abu Dhabi's identity as a premier cultural destination, intertwining community engagement with economic growth.

This festival of light not only emphasizes artistry but also brings together communities and global artists, making it a must-visit event for anyone interested in the intersections of nature, culture, and technology.

In conclusion, Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 invites everyone to witness and celebrate the poetic beauty of light through innovative artworks. For more details on this exciting event, visit dct.gov.ae and abudhabiculture.ae.