Abu Dhabi Art Fair's 17th Edition Showcases Captivating Artworks in November under Khalid bin Mohamed bin Zayed's Patronage

Abu Dhabi Art Fair Expands Global Reach with Record 140 Galleries as UAE Solidifies Cultural Investment Strategy

The 17th edition of Abu Dhabi Art Fair will showcase over 2,000 artworks from 600+ artists across 140 galleries representing 37 countries, marking a 40% increase in participation from 2024. Running November 19-23, 2025, at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the fair introduces first-time participants from Algeria, Senegal, Netherlands, Peru, and Tanzania while spotlighting Nigerian contemporary art—signaling the UAE's strategic push to position itself as a global cultural hub beyond traditional Western art markets.

Strategic Cultural Positioning Pays Dividends

Under the patronage of Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, the fair demonstrates how sustained government backing transforms cultural ambitions into measurable outcomes. The 40% jump in gallery participation reflects growing international confidence in the UAE's art market infrastructure, particularly following the success of Saadiyat Island's museum district.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism, emphasized the fair's role in establishing the emirate as a "global beacon for the arts" while providing local youth access to established international artists—a dual strategy of cultural diplomacy and domestic talent development.

Nigeria Takes Center Stage

The fair's "Nigeria in Focus" section, developed in partnership with Nigeria's Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, features six Nigerian galleries as part of the broader "Nigeria Everywhere" initiative. This spotlight comes as Nigerian contemporary art gains international recognition, with artists addressing identity, politics, and history through narrative-driven works.

Nigeria's inclusion reflects a broader trend toward diversifying art market geography. While traditional Western galleries still dominate global sales, emerging markets like Nigeria offer fresh perspectives and untapped collector bases—particularly valuable as established markets show signs of saturation.

Market Implications and Regional Competition

The fair's expansion positions Abu Dhabi in direct competition with established art hubs like Hong Kong, Singapore, and Miami. However, the UAE's approach differs significantly: rather than simply replicating Western models, it emphasizes underrepresented artistic narratives from Africa, the Gulf, and emerging markets.

Investment in Cultural Infrastructure

Major international galleries including Pace Gallery, Richard Saltoun Gallery, and Menart Gallery will participate alongside newcomers like Loft Art Gallery and RJR Gallery. This mix of established and emerging players suggests a maturing market with room for diverse business models.

Dyala Nusseibeh, Director of Abu Dhabi Art Fair, noted that the government's support for creative industries has driven significant growth, with the fair serving as both marketplace and cultural bridge between regions often overlooked by traditional art circuits.

Beyond Western-Centric Art Narratives

The fair's curatorial approach deliberately amplifies voices from Peru, Venezuela, Brazil, Turkey, and the Gulf—regions with rich artistic traditions but limited representation in major international fairs. This strategy aligns with broader shifts in global collecting patterns, where younger collectors increasingly seek diverse cultural perspectives.

Regional Focus Areas

The "Spaces" section will feature specialized presentations including "Modern Turkish Art," coordinated by Doris Behlioglou Karako, and "Gulf Region" galleries showcasing contemporary Khaleeji artists. Notable participants include Gallery Isabelle presenting works by Hassan Sharif and Mohammed Kazem, and Hanna Art featuring Alyamama Rashid and Jood Fahmi.

The returning "Art Collectors' Salon," overseen by Roxane Zand, former Deputy Chairman of Sotheby's Middle East, adds a commercial dimension with rare books, antiques, and collectibles—broadening the fair's appeal beyond contemporary art.

Strategic Timing and Future Implications

The fair's timing coincides with Abu Dhabi's broader cultural calendar, including the opening of planned museums on Saadiyat Island. This coordinated approach creates year-round cultural programming that justifies the UAE's significant infrastructure investments while attracting international visitors and residents.

For galleries and artists, Abu Dhabi offers access to both established Gulf collectors and emerging markets across Africa and Asia—regions with growing wealth but limited local art infrastructure. The fair's success could influence similar initiatives across the Middle East, potentially reshaping global art market geography over the next decade.