The four-day art fair will feature 10,000 artworks, more than 200 solo artists, 65+ galleries and interactive experiences, with prices ranging from approximately USD 100 to USD 20,000.
World Art Dubai (WAD) will return for its 12th edition from November 19 to 22, 2026, at Za’abeel Halls 2 and 3 of the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), bringing together more than 300 local and international exhibitors from over 65 countries.
The event will showcase 10,000 artworks across four days, featuring more than 200 solo artists, over 65 galleries, and various artist groups and collectives. Under the theme “Where the World’s Art Comes Together,” the fair aims to connect independent and emerging artists with collectors, buyers and new audiences, while strengthening its focus on art discovery and collecting.
Visitors will be able to explore a wide range of artistic disciplines, including painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, digital art and installations. With artworks priced from approximately USD 100 to USD 20,000, the fair aims to appeal to both first-time buyers and established collectors.
The 2026 edition will bring together new curators Rachael Brown and Stephane de Boysson alongside returning curators Gottfried Eisenberger and Samar Kamel. Their work will help shape the presentation and selection of artworks, offering visitors different perspectives on contemporary artistic practices.
Art collecting takes centre stage
World Art Dubai is placing greater emphasis on connecting artists and galleries with prospective buyers, following a 28% increase in artwork sales in 2025.
The fair welcomes a diverse audience, including established collectors, first-time buyers, interior designers, hospitality professionals and corporate clients seeking artwork for residential, hospitality, workplace and development projects.
Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President of Exhibitions at Dubai World Trade Centre, said: “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 while creating meaningful opportunities for artists to connect with new audiences and for visitors to engage with art in ways that feel personal and accessible.”
She added that the 28% increase in artwork sales recorded last year reflects growing interest in art collecting, highlighting an opportunity to bring together a broader range of artistic perspectives and help new and experienced collectors discover works that resonate with them.
Photography and emerging artists in focus
Photography will feature prominently through PhotoWAD, which will introduce visitors to photographic works alongside the fair’s broader range of artistic disciplines.
The Emerging Artist Prize will also return, providing a platform for rising talent to gain visibility within an international art-fair environment.
Gallery participation continues to expand, with galleries from the UAE and international markets exhibiting alongside independent artists and UAE-based talent. The mix is designed to encourage cultural exchange and bring together diverse artistic practices and perspectives.
Interactive experiences for all ages
Beyond the exhibition stands, World Art Dubai will offer a four-day programme of workshops, talks, performances, live demonstrations, installations and participatory experiences.
More than 20 hands-on workshops, included in the ticket price, will give adults and children opportunities to explore creative techniques. Free-to-attend talks will also bring together artists, curators and industry professionals to discuss creativity, professional practice and the art market.
Sunday, November 22, will be designated Family Day, featuring children’s workshops and creative activities. Schools will also participate in the programme, giving students opportunities to display their work and experience the dynamics of a professional art fair.
Supporting Emirati artists beyond the exhibition
A dedicated Emirati Artists Pavilion will showcase Emirati creative talent within the fair’s international platform, creating further opportunities to connect with collectors and buyers.
Support for artists will also extend beyond the event through the Artist in Residence Programme, which connects artists with hotels in Dubai and offers opportunities to develop their work, reach new audiences and collaborate beyond the exhibition environment.
Participating hospitality partners include Hotel Indigo Downtown Dubai, SO/Uptown and Radisson RED, with residency activities continuing beyond the fair and into 2027.
These initiatives form part of World Art Dubai’s broader contribution to Dubai’s cultural and creative economy, linking artistic practice with audiences, businesses, buyers and long-term professional opportunities.
World Art Dubai 2026 is supported by Dubai Culture as Strategic Partner. Knightsbridge Group joins as Legal Sponsor, Qube Art as Framing and Installation Sponsor, and DiarBID Art House as Official Artist Services Support Sponsor.
The event will run daily from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. between November 19 and 22 at Za’abeel Halls 2 and 3, Dubai World Trade Centre. Early-bird tickets are now on sale.
