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by Barbara Yakimchuk

UAE Cultural Digest: April 2025

28 Mar 2025

March was quiet and calm — just as Ramadan should be. But April? That is a whole different story — loud, vibrant, and packed with art, culture, music, and events. Before the summer heat takes over and stepping outside feels like a challenge (unless you are heading to the pool or a beach club), lace up your sneakers and get ready to explore! What is on this month? Read below!

Art Dubai 2025

When? April 18–20
Where? Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai
Art Dubai is an event where the numbers speak for themselves — over 120 presentations, more than 60 cities, and 30 first-time exhibitors. So if you are an art lover, this is the place to be.
It does not matter whether you appreciate and rely on renowned, established exhibitors or seek to discover emerging talents, modern masters, and ultra-contemporary works — there is plenty to explore! Highlights include Pablo del Val curating solo and duo contemporary presentations, Dr. Nada Shabout & Magalí Arriola bridging heritage and abstraction, and many more names that are best seen in person.

Alserkal Art Week

When? April 13–20
Where? Alserkal Avenue
The central theme of Alserkal Art Week this year is "A Wild Stitch." It highlights that art is not always neat and polished — at times, it can be (and should be) controversial, challenging to understand, and open to alternative views and perspectives. This is precisely what makes it compelling and captures our attention!
What will be there?
  • 15 new gallery exhibitions showcasing critical conversations across South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
  • A week-long series of public talks, including the Majlis Talks, curated by Stephanie Bailey.
  • Vanishing Points — the major exhibition, that explores Indo-Persian miniature painting through video and photography.
Plus, there will be multiple workshops, screenings, and walkthroughs! So, this is definitely a must-see in April.
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Photos: Alserkal Art Week

"Calm Down It’s Just Art" Exhibition

When? April 14–20
Where? W Dubai
French contemporary artist, curator, and photographer Thomas Lélu is bringing his bold creativity to Dubai. And honestly, the venue and the event could not be a better match.
Throughout the week, you will get to see how his inspirations — rooted in post-Dada and punk spirit — come to life, transforming words into visual art. Think of them as his letters to life, a concept that has already caught the attention of big names like Puff Daddy, Snoop Dogg, and Diane Keaton. Chances are, you will find something that speaks to you too.
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Photos: Thomas Lélu & W Duabi

April Acts, Sharjah Biennale

When? April 18–20
Where? Across Sharjah Biennale venues
The Sharjah Biennale is still ongoing, with its main exhibitions running until early June. However, some special events will only be available for a limited time in April.
One of the highlights is April Acts, taking place from April 18–20. This programme includes curator-led tours, panel discussions, interactive workshops, film screenings, and live performances.
In addition to April Acts, the Biennale will also host several hands-on workshops for children throughout the month, including a coral stone decoration workshop (April 5–6) and a session on dot embroidery techniques (April 7).

Club Social Music Festival

When? April 18–20
Where? Etihad Park, Abu Dhabi
The ultimate festival is back, bringing together music, food, and good vibes all in one place! Head to the vibrant alley of Etihad Park where top DJs will be spinning their latest hits, delicious food trucks will be serving up our favourite pizza and pasta, and a special BBQ zone will keep the fun sizzling all day long.
And that is not all! Get ready for performances by some of the biggest names we all love — Raye, London Grammar, Usher, and Snow Patrol!

BRED Abu Dhabi

When? April 23–27
Where? Yas Bay Waterfront
The annual festival featuring local and regional artists is back! Every year, BRED brings together the voices we love — the sounds that fuse international urban beats with rich Arabian influences — and this year is no exception.
This year’s lineup already includes globally recognized names like PARTYNEXTDOOR (the first artist signed to Drake’s OVO Sound label) and The Synaptik, a Palestinian-Jordanian artist known for his distinctive voice and sharp lyrics. You will also catch rising talents like Asayel, the Saudi female rapper who made waves with her debut single Asliyah. These are the voices you do not want to miss live! So secure your tickets in advance.

Secta Open Air

When? April 19
Where? The Hangar, JA The Resort, Jebel Ali
Groundbreaking news: Secta — known for their unforgettable parties — is going open-air for the first time. You are going, obviously.
Two stages, industrial setting, ocean views. Modul handles the sound and design, with Secta’s signature Danley system, the hand-built Tone Farm rig (fresh from SOLE DXB), and Sawt System powering the second stage.
Lineup? NEUX (KHIDI / Berlin), Ju Lovett, Dea, Baby B, Kirill Zhan b2b Cyrill Reaidy, Rose-End, and PEAXH — all groove, no filler. Also, there will be community talks with THE KARAK and exclusive merch collabs with Peace Venue and The Workshop DXB (live screen printing included).
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Fideles at Be Beach

When? April 5
Where? Be Beach
One more piece of good news for all music lovers — a big Italian electronic duo is coming to Dubai!
If your vibe is night, beach, dance, and loud music, this is where you need to be. Fideles is already a big name in Europe, having played at massive festivals like Tomorrowland, Junction 2, Sziget, and Amsterdam Dance Event. Now, it is Dubai’s turn to turn up the volume, dance, and have some fun! Don't miss it!
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Photo: Fideles

International Jazz Day in Abu Dhabi

When? April 30
Where? Etihad Arena, in Abu Dhabi
If you are a jazz lover, this is the place to be! The event will bring together internationally renowned jazz artists, with the legendary Herbie Hancock — a multiple Grammy Award winner — leading it.
It is the perfect occasion to dust off your favourite suit or that long-forgotten dress from your closet. Dress up, soak in the elegant atmosphere, and let the jazz sounds take you on a musical journey.
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