BURJ KHALIFA
Officially inaugurated by Sheikh Theyab Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan at Burj Khalifa Armani, ARTUAE has hosted 10 prestigious art exhibitions at Burj Khalifa, including the renowned Dubai Art Exhibition.
Established 17 years ago in the UAE, ARTUAE has played a pivotal role in the region’s art scene, organizing 170 art exhibitions and collaborating with 1,700 artists worldwide.
One of the landmark events, the Burj Khalifa Art Exhibition, featured distinguished artists such as Sheikha Aliasia Bint Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE’s leading artist Abdulqader Al Rais, and 40 artists from diverse nationalities.
The event was supported by esteemed sponsors, including Swiss watch manufacturer Frédéric Jouvanet and German sound system brand MBL, enhancing the experience with a fusion of art, craftsmanship, and technology.
With a commitment to fostering artistic excellence, ARTUAE continues to be a premier platform for global artists, promoting cultural dialogue and creative expression in the UAE and beyond.
A Grand Inauguration & Esteemed Guests
ArtUAE was officially inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Teyab Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, while the Antiquities section was inaugurated by H.H. Sheikh Khalifa Bin Khaled Al Hamed. The event was led by ArtUAE Founder Mr. Sathar Al Karan and Co-Founder Mr. Zakaria Mohammed.
The exhibition attracted an elite audience, including royalty, diplomats, corporate leaders, business magnates, CEOs, bankers, socialites, and art connoisseurs, making it one of the most prestigious cultural gatherings of the year.
ArtUAE – OPENING
A Celebration of Artistic Excellence at Armani Oasi, Burj Khalifa
On Friday, December 12, ArtUAE launched its 5th edition, bringing together leading artists and art groups in a prestigious showcase at Armani Oasi, Burj Khalifa, Dubai.
The event truly reflected the plurality of the UAE’s artistic landscape, featuring an exceptional lineup of artists from around the world.
A Vision for Art Awareness
ArtUAE’s mission is to foster art awareness and cultural dialogue, and this edition served as a curtain-raiser—a prelude to one of the finest art initiatives taking shape in the region.
SHEIKH THEYAB BIN KHALIFA AL NEHAYAN AND FEDERIC JOUVANET
Distinguished Artists & International Representation
The exhibition featured outstanding works from globally renowned artists, including:
UAE: Abdul Qader Al Rais, H.H. Sheikha Alyazia Bint Nahyan Al Nahyan (in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Art Hub), Abdulrauf Khalfan, Ibrahim AlAwadhi (presented by Artissima Gallery)
Bolivia: Mamani Mamani
Italy: Daniela Carletti, Guido Bottazzo
Albania: Ndue Pepa
Palestine: Marwan Salamah
USA: Marco
Peru: Eddie Sulca
Myanmar: Nyo Win Pe, Kin Aung Khant, Zay Zay Htet, Nan Da, Ye Aung Myat (presented by Myanmar Ink Art Gallery)
Brazil: Fiona Ali Bubble (presented by Swiss Art Gate)
Canada: Sylvain Tremblay (International Award-Winning Artist)
A Special Collaboration with Abu Dhabi Art Hub
The Abu Dhabi Art Hub featured a remarkable collection of masterpieces created during artist residencies in the UAE. These works explored a variety of themes, styles, and mediums, including painting, mixed media, and black-light sculptures.
Participating artists from Abu Dhabi Art Hub included:
UAE: H.H. Sheikha Alyazia Bint Nahyan Al Nahyan, Nassim Majed
USA – Russia: Anna Plavinslaya
Jordan: Bassam Al Selawi, Maysoon Masalha
Ireland: Carol Cronin
Nigeria: Colins Abinoro
Belgium: F.man
France: Karine Roche, Michel Bizet
Belarus: Katsiaryna Sumarava
USA – Dominican Republic: Rigo Peralta
Spain: Roman Frances
Croatia: Stipan Tadic
Canada: Sylvain Tremblay
A special highlight was the exclusive display of six pieces by H.H. Sheikha Alyazia Bint Nahyan Al Nahyan from her acclaimed series, "The End" and "Safe Trip", showcased in the VIP lounge.
That's an impressive history for ARTUAE
Established 17 years ago in the UAE, ARTUAE has played a pivotal role in the region’s art scene, organizing 170 art exhibitions and collaborating with 1,700 artists worldwide.
Officially inaugurated by Sheikh Theyab Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan at Burj Khalifa Armani, ARTUAE has hosted 10 prestigious art exhibitions at Burj Khalifa, including the renowned Dubai Art Exhibition.
One of the landmark events, the Burj Khalifa Art Exhibition, featured distinguished artists such as Sheikha Aliasia Bint Mubarak Al Nahyan, the UAE’s leading artist Abdulqader Al Rais, and 40 artists from diverse nationalities.
The event was supported by esteemed sponsors, including Swiss watch manufacturer Frédéric Jouvanet and German sound system brand MBL, enhancing the experience with a fusion of art, craftsmanship, and technology.
With a commitment to fostering artistic excellence, ARTUAE continues to be a premier platform for global artists, promoting cultural dialogue and creative expression in the UAE and beyond.
UPCOMING EXHIBTIONS
ARTUAE to Host Exclusive Art Exhibition with Tang Wu Gang this November
ARTUAE is proud to announce an exclusive art exhibition in November featuring acclaimed artist Tang Wu Gang. Known for his masterful blend of realism and surrealism, Tang Wu Gang brings his celebrated "Wu - Shi" and "Jing - Yanshan" series to Dubai, offering audiences a rare opportunity to experience his visionary works up close.
This highly anticipated exhibition will explore themes of philosophy, nature, and human existence, showcasing Tang Wu Gang's signature Eastern landscapes and symbolic narratives.
Stay tuned for further details as ARTUAE continues to connect global art talents with the UAE’s thriving art scene.
"Beyond the Surface"
ARTUAE to Present Dmitry Barishev Solo Exhibition this December in Al Ain
ARTUAE proudly announces the upcoming solo exhibition of renowned contemporary artist Dmitry Barishev, scheduled for December in Al Ain. Known for his distinctive approach to abstract expressionism and emotive storytelling, Barishev’s work explores profound themes of human connection, movement, and the subconscious.
This exhibition will feature a selection of new and signature pieces, bringing Barishev’s dynamic and thought-provoking artistry to the heart of Al Ain’s cultural scene.
Stay tuned for further details as ARTUAE continues to foster global art exchanges and enrich the UAE’s artistic landscape.
"Harmony in Contrast: The Art of Jennifer Wong"
ARTUAE to Host Jennifer Wong Solo Exhibition in January 2026
ARTUAE is delighted to announce a solo exhibition by renowned Chinese artist Jennifer Wong, scheduled for January 2026. Celebrated for her unique fusion of contemporary Chinese art with traditional influences, Wong’s work explores themes of cultural identity, nature, and modernity, bringing fresh perspectives to the global art stage.
The exhibition will present a captivating selection of Jennifer Wong’s latest creations, offering visitors a glimpse into her intricate visual language and emotional storytelling.
Stay tuned as ARTUAE continues to spotlight international talent, further strengthening Dubai’s position as a global arts and culture hub.
"Beyond Structure: The Art-Architecture of Massimo Mercurio"
ARTUAE to Present Mercurio Design Lab Sculpture Exhibition at Pupil of Fate, Sheikh Zayed Road
ARTUAE is proud to announce an exciting Sculpture Exhibition by Mercurio Design Lab (MDL), opening this October at Pupil of Fate, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai’s leading premium art and automotive space.
Led by the visionary Massimo Mercurio, founder of MDL and an acclaimed architect and designer, the exhibition will showcase a curated selection of his award-winning sculptures that merge Italian design, architectural mastery, and artistic innovation.
Massimo’s unique background in Mechanical Engineering, Architecture, and Theoretical Physics informs his bold, avant-garde approach, blending structural form with artistic emotion. Visitors will experience iconic sculptures that push creative boundaries and reflect Mercurio Design Lab’s global reputation for elevating the intersection of art, science, and design.
Stay tuned as ARTUAE and MDL bring this dynamic exhibition to life, enriching Dubai’s art and design landscape.
"Letters of Legacy: The Calligraphy of Safiya A. Shaibani"
ARTUAE to Host Safiya A. Shaibani’s Arabic Calligraphy Exhibition at Pupil of Fate, Dubai - December 2025
ARTUAE is proud to present an exclusive Arabic Calligraphy Exhibition by Safiya A. Shaibani, an accomplished Omani artist and professional with a rich background in banking, media, advertising, and corporate leadership. The exhibition will take place at Pupil of Fate, Sheikh Zayed Road, in December 2025, blending art, heritage, and modernity in one of Dubai’s most unique art venues.
Alongside her extensive experience in key roles such as Executive Personal Assistant, Media Production Manager, and Office Manager in major organizations like the Central Bank of Oman, PDO, and Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Safiya has nurtured her passion for Arabic calligraphy, crafting works that reflect cultural depth and personal expression.
This exhibition will celebrate Safiya’s mastery of traditional Arabic scripts and her ability to evoke emotion through the art of calligraphy.
ARTUAE looks forward to sharing Safiya’s vision and artistry with collectors, art lovers, and cultural enthusiasts this winter.
"Cultural Resonance: Indian Art in Dubai’s Heart"
ARTUAE to Collaborate with Anjali Vhatkar & Elaura Art Gallery for Dubai Land Department Exhibition this September
ARTUAE is thrilled to announce its collaboration with Anjali Vhatkar, founder and CEO of Elaura Art Gallery, for a special exhibition at the Dubai Land Department in September.
Anjali Vhatkar, a qualified architect from Sir J.J. College of Architecture and a distinguished art curator based in Mumbai, brings her expertise in abstract art, mixed media sustainable artworks, and traditional Indian art formssuch as Gond Tribal Painting, Pichwai painting, and Tanjore painting.
Elaura Art Gallery, inspired by the legendary Ajanta and Ellora caves, integrates the ethos of Indian heritage with contemporary design. The gallery is dedicated to promoting both modern art and India’s rich folk traditions, empowering underprivileged artisans while creating meaningful commissions for high-profile projects such as hotels, airports, government institutions, and cultural spaces.
The exhibition will present a carefully curated collection of Indian contemporary and folk art, reflecting Elaura’s commitment to blending craftsmanship, sustainability, and storytelling. This event marks a significant collaboration, bridging Indian cultural heritage with Dubai’s architectural and corporate landscape.
ACTIVITIES
No Obstacles: A Journey Across Continents
ART UAE’s Support & Travellers Festival 2013
Recognizing their extraordinary journey, ART UAE, in collaboration with Hamdan Bin Mohammed Heritage Centre, organized a special welcome to the UAE at the Travellers Festival 2013. ART UAE also played a crucial role in securing road permissions for their next adventure—traveling overland to India via UAE, Oman, Iran, and Pakistan.
Next Destination: India Overland!
In October 2013, the duo planned to continue eastward, taking the ferry from UAE to Iran, then crossing Pakistan into India. Their overland expedition, covering 140,000 km across 35 countries, truly embodies the spirit of exploration, perseverance, and boundless adventure.
A journey with no obstacles—only new horizons.
From Ravensburg to Cape Town: The Trans-African Overland Adventure
In January 2008, Ralf Kürner, a carpenter and wood engineer from Germany, embarked on an extraordinary solo overland journey across Africa in his fire engine, "Fatma". His goal: to traverse Africa from north to south in one year. Taking the challenging western route from Morocco, he faced obstacles early on, including political instability in Mauritania, which led to the cancellation of the Paris-Dakar Rally.
However, trusting his instincts, Ralf pushed forward and was rewarded with breathtaking desert experiences, including an 800km off-road stretch guided only by GPS coordinates. After 18 months, he finally reached Cape Town, achieving a lifelong dream.
A Life Changed Through Travel
In Namibia, Ralf met Laila Huysman, a teacher and graphic designer from Holland, and together, they continued their nomadic journey. Their adventures extended beyond travel, as they dedicated time to social projects, including six months with "Bonniepeople"—an initiative supporting underprivileged children in South Africa.
The Journey Back North: Middle East & Beyond
After two years in Southern Africa, the couple embarked on a northbound expedition via the East African coast, experiencing Ethiopia’s profound cultural depth and Sudan’s stark beauty. Navigating Sudan proved challenging due to security concerns, extreme heat, and visa complications. However, determination saw them aboard a ferry to Saudi Arabia, surrounded by 3,000 pilgrims en route to Mecca—a truly unique experience.
Following a month in Jordan, they faced another uncertainty: Would they receive another visa for Saudi Arabia? Would they reach the UAE? Despite mechanical issues, they finally arrived in the UAE at the end of 2012, where they were welcomed with remarkable hospitality. Their travels extended into Oman, further deepening their love for the region.
Art Residency and Camp at Liwa Art Hub – December 2, 2014
On December 2, 2014, Liwa Art Hub hosted an exclusive Art Residency and Camp, bringing together renowned artists, cultural figures, and art enthusiasts for a creative retreat in the heart of the Liwa desert. This unique gathering celebrated art, culture, and cross-cultural collaboration, fostering dialogue and inspiration among participants.
Distinguished Guests & Participants
The event was graced by several notable personalities from the worlds of art, media, and cinema, including:
T.P. Seetharam, Indian Ambassador to the UAE, along with his family
Artist Devi, a distinguished creative voice
Babu Antony, acclaimed Malayalam actor
Zacaria Mohammed, COO of Gulf Madhyamam
Sathar Al Karan, art and culture advocate from ARTUAE
Ahamed Al Yafei, founder of Art Hub
Aurela Cuku, founder of Artissima
A Celebration of Art in the Desert
Liwa, known for its majestic sand dunes and serene landscapes, provided the perfect backdrop for an immersive art experience. The residency and camp:
Offered artists a space to create, reflect, and exchange ideas
Explored themes of nature, identity, and cultural heritage
Encouraged collaborative projects and experimental art forms
The Liwa Art Residency and Camp became a melting pot of artistic expression, reinforcing the UAE’s role as a hub for global creativity and cultural exchange.
U.S. Embassy Abu Dhabi Hosts Art & Music Fusion Night at Liwa Art Hub
On the occasion of the UAE National Day celebrations, the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi organized a spectacular Art & Music Fusion Night at Liwa Art Hub. The event brought together artists, musicians, and cultural figures for a night of creative synergy, celebrating the power of art and music in fostering cross-cultural connections.
Distinguished Guests & Participants
The event was honored by the presence of:
U.S. Ambassador to the UAE
Khalil Abdul Wahid, Director of Visual Arts at Dubai Culture
Ahamed Al Yafei, Founder of Liwa Art Hub
Over 100 artists and musicians from diverse backgrounds
A Night of Creativity & Cultural Exchange
The Art & Music Fusion Night featured:
Live painting and art installations by participating artists
Musical performances blending Eastern and Western influences
Collaborative projects between visual artists and musicians
Discussions on the role of art and music in cultural diplomacy
Held in the serene and inspiring landscape of Liwa, the event highlighted the UAE’s rich artistic landscape and its global cultural collaborations. The night was a true testament to the power of art and music in bringing people together, bridging cultures, and celebrating diversity.
ART MEETS TRAVEL: NIGHT CAMP AT MAJRANS RV CAMP & RESORT, RAS AL KHAIMAH
The "Art Meets Travel" initiative brought together renowned artists, journalists, and cultural enthusiasts for an immersive night camp experience at Majrans RV Camp & Resort in Ras Al Khaimah. This unique event blended the beauty of nature with the inspiration of art, fostering deep discussions, creative exchanges, and a celebration of artistic expression under the desert sky.
Notable Guests & Participants:
Mr. Majran – Member of the Dubai Royal Family
Ralf Kürner – Acclaimed artist
Laila Huysman – Art patron & collector
Naser Palangi – Iranian artist, accompanied by his wife
Girish Bajaj – Renowned journalist
Aurela Cuku – Founder of Artissima
Sathar Al Karan – Visionary behind ARTUAE
A Night of Inspiration & Cultural Exchange
The camp provided a serene setting for artists and creatives to engage in:
Live art sessions inspired by the desert landscape
Storytelling & discussions on the intersection of art and travel
Music performances & cultural dialogues
Stargazing and nature appreciation
This one-of-a-kind experience reaffirmed the deep connection between art, travel, and personal reflection, creating unforgettable memories for all attendees.
Artist Anga’s Art Exhibition – Shangri-La 2018 by ARTUAE
"Painting and art, in general, have always been the breath of life to me." – Artist Anga
In 2018, ARTUAE proudly presented Artist Anga’s solo exhibition at Shangri-La, celebrating a lifetime dedicated to artistic expression. Anga’s paintings are a testament to a deeply rooted passion for creativity, shaped by personal experiences, global travels, and an innate drive to translate emotions onto canvas.
The Essence of Anga’s Art
A Journey of Expression – Anga’s work is driven by a profound need to express, to capture emotions and translate them into visual stories.
Inspired by the World – Travel, culture, and the sensory experiences of different places infuse each piece with rich colors, textures, and depth.
An Artist’s Reflection on Life – Anga’s paintings reflect a deep awareness of the fragility of life, shaped by encounters with diverse people and cultures.
A Life Dedicated to Art
With unwavering conviction and purpose, Anga continues to march forward, creating, inspiring, and sharing a vision that transcends boundaries. The Shangri-La exhibition was a celebration of this artistic journey, leaving a lasting impression on art lovers and collectors alike.
Art of Carpets – A Fusion of Tradition & Creativity
In an exquisite collaboration, ARTUAE organized the "Art of Carpets" exhibition in partnership with Cinar Carpets, Turkey, at Shangri-La, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai. This prestigious event showcased the artistry and craftsmanship of Turkish carpet weaving, blending heritage with contemporary design.
Event Highlights
Masterpieces from Cinar Carpets – A showcase of intricate handwoven carpets, reflecting centuries-old Turkish traditions.
Ahmed Cinar & Sathar Al Karan in Attendance – Esteemed figures in the art and design world graced the occasion, celebrating the intersection of fine art and textile craftsmanship.
Cultural Exchange – The exhibition provided a platform for art enthusiasts, collectors, and designers to appreciate the beauty of carpets as an art form..
Çınar Carpets, established in 1935 by Hayrullah Çınar in Kayseri, Turkey, is renowned for its exquisite handwoven wool and silk carpets. The Çınar family, tracing their lineage back to the Seljuks, has preserved traditional carpet-making techniques through generations. Today, under the leadership of Hasan and Mehmet Çınar, the company continues to be a prominent name in the Turkish carpet industry, offering products that blend durability with aesthetic appeal.
Their collections are available in select stores across Istanbul, Antalya, Cappadocia, and Dubai.
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