The intricate and detailed decorations on the walls of the Sharjah Art Foundation in Dubai | Photo: Saloni Sakhardande (Own Work) via Wikimedia Creative Commons
الموقع: Sharjah Art Foundation and other locations
العنوان: Al Shuwaiheen Arts Area - Sharjah
"Talent, not gender, is what should define you in the world of art,” affirmed Her Excellency Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Knowledge Development of the United Arab Emirates. And it is talent which is the common denominator among some of the most important names in the artistic scene in Dubai and the Emirates. One of the most important and influential curators on an international level is Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi, President and Director of Sharjah Art Foundation, who, at just 22 years old, took on the direction of the Biennial of Sharjah, making it one of the world’s most interesting art events. She also founded the Sharjah Art Foundation in 2009, through which numerous activities contributed in transforming the artistic scene of the Emirates into a powerful nexus and incubator of ideas. Meanwhile, her colleague, Manal Ataya, Director-General of the Sharjah Museums Authority, is in charge of the overall management of 17 museums and the strategic development of future museum projects. And the art district, Alserkal Avenue, is also in the hands of a woman, Vilma Jurkute. Britain’s Antonia Carver, once director of Art Dubai, now in charge of Art Jameel, has always pointed out, as well as demonstrating it through her own career, just how significant the female presence is in the local art scene. And there are top flight artists as well, like Shaikha Al Mazrou and Sarah Almehairi, and the number of female artists is also surely destined to increase.
Firetti Contemporary Gallery hosts Lebanese artist Ihab Ahmad’s solo exhibition. A reflection on vulnerability, instinct, and human connection, expressed through gestural painting, smiling faces, and sculptural experimentation.
Mohammad Alfaraj’s first exhibition in a major cultural institution intertwines installations, video, photography and poetry to create a fascinating multisensory journey inspired by the Al-Ahsa oasis, between traditions, agricultural environments and dreamlike narratives.
From October 24 to November 2, 2025, Grease – The Musical makes its debut at Dubai Opera in a new production that brings back the story of Sandy and Danny, blending Rock’n’roll with teenage dreams. A timeless classic that unites generations through music and dance.
At Carbon 12 Gallery in Dubai, Garden of Murmurs is Malik Thomas Jalil Kydd’s first solo exhibition, open until 23 August 2025. Working across silk, fiber and natural dyes including sage, the show presents a poetic exploration of male identity, memory, desire and spirituality.