UAE Cultural Digest: January 2025

by Barbara Yakimchuk

UAE Cultural Digest: January 2025

10 Jan 2025

The start of a new year always brings a surge of inspiration and energy, and I believe it should begin with a bang — full of excitement and memorable experiences. With so many amazing events lined up in the UAE, there is no excuse for a quiet start: from art exhibitions to musical performances and vibrant festivals. The challenge this month? Try to catch them all. Here are the must-visit cultural events for January 2025.

Al Marmoom: Film in the Desert Festival

Until January 12

If the words “desert,” “films,” and “authenticity” sound like your idea of a perfect evening, then this festival is a must-visit. The organisers have crafted a true fairytale: a massive open-air cinema set in the middle of the desert, complete with popcorn stands, cosy sofas, and thousands of twinkling lights.

Contrary to its name, the festival offers much more than just films. In addition to showcasing regionally produced movies, carefully chosen for the event, it features open discussions, astronomy and cinema-related workshops, and digital art exhibitions. Best of all, entry is free — so do not miss it out!

Instagram: @almarmoom.filmfest

The Rage Wild West

January 9–12

The Rage Wild West Festival is the event people have been buzzing about long before 2025. If you are after more than just art and culture and need some easy entertainment too, this is the place to be. Expect countless food and clothing pop-ups, fun games for all ages, and, of course, a touch of authentic Arabic vibes and culture (because, let us face it, it would not belong in this digest otherwise).

One more thing to note: while the festival’s theme is the Wild West, it is also a great spot to discover a variety of Arabic clothing and jewellery brands — ranging from established names to fresh, emerging designers.

The Sublime Nature of Being

January 17 – February 22

A true delight for art lovers, The Sublime Nature of Being exhibition will open its doors in mid-January at Summer Garden, ICD Brookfield Place, DIFC. Curated in collaboration with artist and designer Ambika Hinduja Macker and ICD Brookfield Place of Art, renowned for its long-standing mission to discover and support local and regional talent, this exhibition will showcase works by 15 globally acclaimed artists spanning various disciplines of art and design. These works have already seen the halls of the British Museum, the Pompidou Centre, and the Los Angeles County Museum of Art — now, Dubai, it is your turn!

Photos: The Sublime Nature of Being

Quoz Arts Fest by Alserkal

January 25–26

The annual Quoz Arts Fest is one of my most anticipated January events, offering a true blend of contemporary art, local culture, and music. There is something for everyone here. Those eager to dive into the local music scene can enjoy live performances by some of the region's most popular names, including Big Hass and House of Yanos. If you are seeking inspiration and reflection, explore the art installations — with over 10 in total. And for those whose cultural cravings come with an appetite, Quoz Arts Fest features plenty of pop-ups offering more than 50 of the region's culinary options. Be sure to save room for both food for the soul and the stomach, and book your ticket in advance!

Photo: Quoz Arts Fest by Alserkal

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

January 29 – February 3

If you are a literature lover, mark the 29th in your calendar and head to the InterContinental Dubai Festival City. This event is called the region’s most diverse literature festival, and looking at the programme, it is hard to argue with that! Expect panel discussions featuring international and Emirati authors and speakers in both English and Arabic, along with workshops and musical performances.

Despite the festival's name, the public talks cover a wide range of topics — from the evolution of the concept of morality to the identity of coffee. My personal must-visit? “Tickling the Dark Side” with screenwriter Mamdouh Hamada and writer Ahmed AlSadek, exploring the world of "black comedy." Be sure to secure your spot in advance!

Photos: Emirates Fest

Sikka Art & Design Festival

January 31 – February 9

Last year, this festival was one of the most significant cultural events in Dubai, attracting over 60 000 visitors. Being an initiative by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, it is dedicated to supporting and showcasing the work of Emirati, UAE, and GCC-based artists. Set in the Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, the festival will feature a wide range of art forms — from visual arts to sculpture and photography. In addition, there will be various interactive experiences and workshops.

This year, participants were selected over the course of two months. While the exact number of art works is not available, last year’s event featured over 500 artists from the UAE and other Middle Eastern countries. Let us see if 2025 can top those numbers!

Dubai Opera: Nirvana Reimagined: Symphonic and Jackson Symphonic

January 18–19

Dubai Opera regularly hosts some interesting performances, but this month, two stand out to me: Nirvana Reimagined: Symphonic and Jackson Symphonic — both performed by the Armenian State Symphony Orchestra. The first has already conquered Australia and Canada, and now it is making its way to the UAE, offering a unique take on the legendary rock band. The second pays tribute to the King of Pop, reimagining his iconic songs in a fresh symphonic style.

Which one appeals to you more? The choice is yours! But remember, both performances are for just one day, so it is best to secure your tickets in advance.

Photo: @dubaiopera

by Barbara Yakimchuk