Unveiling Manar Abu Dhabi's Artistic Horizons
Manar Abu Dhabi, organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, emerges as a remarkable public light art exhibition celebrating creativity and the emirate's rich landscapes. This second edition is set to astonish audiences with an impressive lineup of 15 Emirati and international artists from 10 countries, showcasing 23 extraordinary works encompassing light sculptures, immersive installations, and captivating projections.
Exploring the Theme: The Light Compass
Under the theme 'The Light Compass', the exhibition presents contemporary artworks that delve into the essence of light as both a guiding force and a medium. Curated by Khai Hori, the Artistic Director, alongside co-curators Alia Zaal Lootah, Munira Al Sayegh, and Mariam Alshehhi, the event promises to captivate audiences across four key locations: Jubail Island, Souq Al Mina, and, for the first time, Al Ain, with dedicated trails throughout the Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oases.
Jubail Island: The Heart of the Exhibition
Jubail Island stands out as the anchor location for Manar Abu Dhabi 2025, marked by its stunning natural scenery and unique biodiversity. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the expansive boardwalks weaving through mangroves, encountering 15 installations that highlight the intersection of art and nature.
Some notable highlights include:
- EDEN (2025) by Malaysian artist Pamela Poh, featuring large-scale outdoor structures and illuminated glass spheres at night.
- The dome-like UNFOLD (2025) by DRIFT offers a transformative experience where biometric data morphs into unique flowers and soundscapes, alongside the mesmerizing WHISPERS (2025), responsive to subtle movements.
- Emirati sculptor Shaikha Al Mazrou's striking 30-meter installation CONTINGENT OBJECT (2025), a dynamic piece evolving as water crystallizes into a salt disc.
- Interactive installations by Iregular showcase works such as AS WATER FALLS (2022) and CONTROL NO CONTROL (2012), employing AI and data visualization to engage visitors.
Additional artists participating at Jubail Island include Ezequiel Pini, Christian Brinkmann, Kirsten Berg, Encor Studio, and Lachlan Turczan.
Transforming Al Ain's Oases
The exhibition will make its debut in Al Ain, creatively illuminating Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oases with dedicated trails of light installations. The Al Qattara Oasis Trail features installations that resonate with the environment's natural beauty and heritage.
- Returning artist Rafael Lozano-Hemmer will exhibit TRANSLATION STREAM (2023), a moving display of poems by contemporary Emirati poets, and PULSE CANOPY (2025), a light canopy reacting to visitors' heartbeats.
- Emirati designer Khalid Shafar introduces SADU RED CARPET (2025), which reinterprets a traditional weaving technique, shining a light on cultural heritage.
The Al Jimi Oasis Trail promises further adventures with installations like CYCLE OF CIRCLES (2025) by Ammar Al Attar, and GUIDING DRAPES (2025) by Abdulla Al Mulla, all contributing to an interactive exploration of the oasis' charm.
Immersive Experiences at Souq Al Mina
Set against Mina Zayed's skyline, KAWS presents KAWS: HOLIDAY Abu Dhabi, featuring an illuminated COMPANION, a hallmark of the artist's work, providing a whimsical touch to the coastal view.
About Manar Abu Dhabi
Manar Abu Dhabi, orchestrated by the Department of Culture and Tourism, serves as a platform for public art, celebrating the emirate's remarkable landscapes and aiming to encourage creative expression.
Insights into the Department of Culture and Tourism
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is dedicated to enhancing the emirate's culture and tourism sectors, driving sustainable growth while fostering creativity and economic progress. DCT Abu Dhabi partners with key organizations to position the emirate as a premier international destination through innovative solutions and collaborative efforts.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Manar Abu Dhabi?
Manar Abu Dhabi is a public light art exhibition organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, showcasing contemporary light-based artworks.
What can visitors expect from the 2025 edition?
Visitors can look forward to installations from 15 artists, featuring immersive light sculptures and interactive artworks across various locations.
Where will the exhibition be held?
The exhibition will take place in key locations including Jubail Island, Souq Al Mina, and Al Ain’s Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oases.
How long will the exhibition run?
Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 is scheduled to run from early November 2025 until January 2026, with specific dates varying by location.
How does DCT Abu Dhabi support the exhibition?
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi drives the exhibition to foster creativity, enhance cultural heritage, and promote sustainable tourism in the emirate.
