#Abu Dhabi #United Arab Emirates #Manar Abu Dhabi #Khai Hori #Abu Dhabi Culture

Manar Abu Dhabi Illuminates the Emirate with Art

The beloved biennial exhibition, Manar Abu Dhabi, is set to dazzle once again, taking place from November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026. Spearheaded by artistic director Khai Hori, this year's theme, 'The Light Compass', promises a fusion of craftsmanship and innovation, reflecting the intricate relationship between light and culture in the UAE. This year, the exhibition will expand its reach to Al Ain, thus inviting a wider audience to engage with contemporary art in various unique settings.

A Glorious Expanded Theme

This iteration will feature 19 newly commissioned light installations by both local and international artists. The central location for the event will be Jubail Island, which will serve as the exhibition's beating heart. Visitors can anticipate an extraordinary sensory experience amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Abu Dhabi's coastal and desert regions. The installations aim to evoke inspiration and explore the natural and technological resonances of light, linking back to the region's historical navigation traditions.

A Cultural Journey with Engaging Programs

In addition to the stunning visual displays, the exhibition will include an active public program consisting of lectures, workshops, and performances. Such initiatives enable audiences to immerse themselves more deeply in the artistic concepts and methodologies behind each work. Khai Hori, who has previously held notable positions at esteemed institutions like Palais de Tokyo in Paris and the Singapore Art Museum, leads the curation alongside fellow curators Alia Zaal Lootah, Munira Al Sayegh, and Mariam Alshehhi.

Encompassing Diverse Landscapes

The appeal of Manar Abu Dhabi lies not only in its luminous art but also in its unique setting across diverse landscapes. Alongside the flagship site at Jubail Island, the installations will find new homes in Al Ain's lush oases—a stark contrast to the metropolitan charm of Abu Dhabi city. Here, the light installations will interact dynamically with the area's geography, incorporating elements like the ancient aflaj irrigation systems that have supported life in these regions for centuries.

The exhibition aims to shine a light on the enduring narratives tied to water, land, and the vibrant life that sustains them. Visitors to Al Ain can experience this firsthand, as installations launch on November 1, 2025, coinciding with the Traditional Crafts Festival, enhancing the cultural tapestry of the region.

Commitment to Public Art

Manar Abu Dhabi forms part of the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, reflecting the Department of Culture and Tourism's ongoing commitment to enriching urban spaces through meaningful art. DCT Abu Dhabi is devoted to fostering a vibrant environment where culture, creativity, and tourism intertwine, thereby promoting a sense of community and belonging.

In conclusion, this year’s Manar Abu Dhabi offers not just an artistic spectacle, but a platform for collective thinking and interaction. With more information, including a detailed list of participating artists and event schedules to follow, the anticipation continues to build as the emirate gears up for another transformative artistic journey.

For further updates, check the official pages at dct.gov.ae and abudhabiculture.ae.
Get ready to be inspired by the nexus of tradition and modernity as light guides the way in this cultural adventure.