#Abu Dhabi #UAE #Public Art Abu Dhabi #Manar Abu Dhabi #Khai Hori

Manar Abu Dhabi: Illuminating the Emirate with Light Art

This November, the biannual light art exhibition, Manar Abu Dhabi, returns for its second edition, offering a stunning showcase of creativity and innovation in art. Curated by the renowned Khai Hori, who has an impressive background from esteemed institutions such as Palais de Tokyo in Paris and the Singapore Art Museum, this year’s theme is 'The Light Compass'.

The exhibition will take place from November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026, showcasing 19 light-based installations crafted by both Emirati and international artists. This edition marks an exciting expansion, as for the first time, the exhibition will also include locations in the Al Ain Region, making art accessible to a wider audience.

Celebrating Natural Landscapes

Under the guiding theme of 'The Light Compass,' the installations will draw inspiration from the Emirate's unique landscapes, including its mangroves, oases, and urban settings. Jubail Island will serve as the core venue, serving to highlight the interplay between nature and art. Visitors can expect an immersive experience as each artwork reflects the region's ancestral relationship with light, an essential element in navigating both land and sea.

A Cultural Experience

Beyond the installations, Manar Abu Dhabi will host a dynamic public program featuring talks, workshops, and performances designed to foster deeper engagement with the artistic pieces on display. This aspect aligns with the initiative’s commitment to not just display art, but also to encourage public participation and interaction. Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the exhibition aims to enrich the capital's cultural landscape and promote creativity within the community.

As a component of the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, this exhibition underscores the commitment of DCT Abu Dhabi to enhance the urban environment through public art. With such developments, Abu Dhabi continues to solidify its reputation as an essential hub for culture, attracting attention from both residents and tourists alike.

The Al Ain Expansion

This year, for the first time, the show will feature installations in the Al Ain Region, with its picturesque lush oases providing a stark contrast to the coastal environment of the capital. Visitors can explore installations in the Al Jimi and Al Qattara oases, further emphasizing the relationship between water and life in the desert landscape. The artworks here will be available from November 1, 2025, in conjunction with the Traditional Handicrafts Festival.

This program is part of the DCT Abu Dhabi's broader vision to create a space where creativity can thrive, ensuring that the emirate is recognized not only for its tourism and economy but also as a vibrant center for arts and culture.

Future Prospects

As details surrounding the artist lineup and the complete program are finalized, art enthusiasts are encouraged to stay tuned for more information. Manar Abu Dhabi promises to be more than just a visual spectacle; it aspires to resonate with audiences by exploring the deeper significances of light in both artistic forms and as a guiding principle in the emirate's history.

In conclusion, the second edition of Manar Abu Dhabi seeks not only to inspire but also to celebrate the unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage that defines this remarkable region. Whether you’re an art lover, a local resident, or a curious traveler, this is an event you won’t want to miss as the lights illuminate Abu Dhabi this winter.

For more information on Manar Abu Dhabi and upcoming events, please visit DCT Abu Dhabi’s official websites.