World Art Dubai Returns for Triumphant 12th Edition with Global Artistic Excellence
The prestigious international art fair welcomes over 300 exhibitors from 65 countries, presenting 10,000 artworks across four days of discovery and cultural celebration
World Art Dubai, the distinguished international art fair that has established itself as a preeminent gathering point for artists, collectors and creative enthusiasts, returns for its 12th edition from November 19 to 22, 2026, at Za’abeel Halls 2 and 3 of the Dubai World Trade Centre. The forthcoming fair promises an extraordinary convergence of artistic talent and cultural richness, with more than 300 local and international exhibitors representing over 65 countries.
The 2026 edition showcases an expansive artistic landscape, featuring 200 plus solo artists and 65 plus galleries, alongside artist groups and collectives, presenting a remarkable collection of 10,000 artworks across diverse mediums and contemporary practices. From painting and sculpture to photography, mixed media, digital art and installations, the fair presents works spanning an expansive range of artistic styles, markets and price points, offering something of profound interest to both seasoned collectors and those embarking upon their collecting journey.
Operating under the evocative strapline ‘Where the World’s Art Comes Together,’ the fair strengthens its curatorial vision through the collaboration of new curators Rachael Brown and Stephane de Boysson, alongside returning curators Gottfried Eisenberger and Samar Kamel. Their collective expertise and diverse perspectives shape the thoughtful presentation of artworks throughout the fair, guiding visitors through an enriching exploration of artistic practices from around the globe.
Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, Dubai World Trade Centre, expressed the fair’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections: ‘World Art Dubai has grown into a meeting point for artists, galleries and art lovers from across the world. As we prepare for our 12th edition, our priority is to build on that international reach whilst creating meaningful opportunities for artists to connect with new audiences and for visitors to engage with art in ways that feel personal and accessible.’
The fair’s growing significance within the regional art market reflects rising enthusiasm among collectors, with gallery participation continuing to increase year on year. The dedicated Emirati Artists Pavilion elevates local creative talent within this international platform, amplifying opportunities for visibility, discovery and engagement with collectors and international buyers.
Beyond the exhibition stands, World Art Dubai extends its cultural mission through an enriching four-day programme encompassing workshops, talks, performances, live demonstrations and participatory experiences. More than 20 hands-on workshops, included within the ticket price, invite adults and children to experiment with creative techniques, whilst a curated programme of free-to-attend talks brings together artists, curators and industry voices to discuss creativity, professional practice and the contemporary art market. PhotoWAD introduces a focused presentation of photographic work, whilst the Emerging Artist Prize continues to create platforms for rising talent within an international art fair environment.
The Artist in Residence Programme further underscores World Art Dubai’s broader commitment to supporting creative development, connecting artists with leading cultural institutions and fostering collaborative opportunities that extend beyond the fair’s four days. These interconnected initiatives affirm World Art Dubai’s profound role within Dubai’s flourishing cultural and creative economy, connecting artistic practice with audiences, collectors, businesses and meaningful long-term professional opportunities.
Source: WAM
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