My love for art started, I guess, when I was 5 years old and I was absolutely mad about ancient Egyptian culture, which ended up in me being stuck in the sarcophagus at Moscow’s Pushkin Museum. In the 2000s the security wasn’t on point for sure. But yeah, as an art lover, we have a calendar market with different events every year and one of them is Art Dubai. For those living under the rock Art Dubai is the Middle East’s preeminent art fair, returning for its 2025 edition from April 18–20 at Madinat Jumeirah. 

Art Dubai’s strength lies in its commitment to championing artists and galleries from lesser-explored geographies, making it a counterpoint to more traditional fairs. This year, over 50 cities are represented, with artists hailing from the Middle East, Africa, South Asia, and Latin America.

And if Art Abu Dhabi this featured an amazing array of artists and galleries from Asia — unforgettable Kang Jun Seok and Leehwaik Gallery, for example — Art Dubai still pushes forward its narrative and focuses on the overlooked parts of the world like Morocco, Georgia, Mexico, Lithuania and many more. The first ever exciting hodgepodge, right? 

The Bawwaba section (“gateway” in Arabic), curated by Mirjam Varadinis, focuses on solo presentations exploring themes of displacement, coexistence, and the environment. In an era marked by migration and climate anxieties (hi to last year’s Veniсe biennale), artists like Gulnur Mukazhanova (Kazakhstan) and Tomas Saraceno (Argentina) create works that challenge boundaries — both literal and figurative — while offering visions of resilience and harmony.

Art Dubai Modern, curated by Dr. Nada Shabout and Magalí Arriola, turns the spotlight on influential modernist movements from the 20th century. This year’s edition makes an exciting expansion into Latin America (muchas gracias), highlighting shared post-colonial struggles and cultural connections with the Middle East. Venezuelan artist Darío Pérez Flores stands as a symbolic bridge, his works reflecting a global dialogue on identity, heritage, and modernity.

Much awaited Art Dubai Digital, now in its fourth year, in 2025 will be exploring the theme, “After the Technological Sublime.” Curated by Gonzalo Herrero Delicado, this section reimagines the idea of the sublime — once a term reserved for nature’s vast power — through the lens of monumental technological innovation. From AI and robotics to quantum computing, works here provoke both awe and introspection, addressing our complex relationship with technology.

Leading exhibitors like Hafez Gallery, Sevil Dolmaci, MORROW Collective, and HOFA Gallery will showcase digital art. 

Not only global, but local as well, galleries like Mondoir Art Gallery and espace, will be there as well, reflecting the city’s investment in digital experimentation and creativity. With over 50 participating Dubai-based galleries, including Aisha Alabbar Gallery and Tabari Artspace, the fair also spotlights the region’s support of local talent.

In a world that often feels divided, Art Dubai reminds us of the power of art to bridge gaps, foster understanding, and inspire change. For anyone looking to meet many amazing people of contemporary art to discuss what’s really important, Art Dubai 2025 is a great place to be.

Art Dubai 2025 runs from April 18–20, with previews on April 16–17, at Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai.