World Art Dubai 2026 Returns with 300+ Exhibitors, 10,000 Artworks and Global Galleries

World Art Dubai (WAD) will return for its 12th edition from November 19 to 22 at Dubai World Trade Centre, bringing together more than 300 exhibitors from over 65 countries, including independent artists, emerging talent and international galleries.

Held at Za’abeel Halls 2 and 3, the four-day art fair will feature more than 10,000 artworks, including contributions from over 200 solo artists and 65 galleries, alongside artist groups and collectives. Tickets have gone on sale for the event, which aims to connect visitors with contemporary art across a wide range of styles and price points.

Under the strapline “Where the World’s Art Comes Together,” the 2026 edition will build on the fair’s focus on independent and emerging artists while expanding gallery participation and strengthening opportunities for visitors to discover and purchase artwork.

The exhibition will feature painting, sculpture, photography, mixed media, digital art, installations and other contemporary practices, with artworks priced from approximately $100 to $20,000.

World Art Dubai Expands Focus on Art Collecting

World Art Dubai is placing greater emphasis on art sales and collecting following a reported 28% increase in artwork sales in 2025.

The fair aims to connect artists and galleries with established collectors, first-time buyers, interior designers, hospitality professionals and corporate clients seeking artwork for homes, hotels, offices and development projects.

With works available across a broad range of price points, the event seeks to make art collecting accessible to visitors at different stages of their collecting journey.

The 2026 edition will feature new curators Rachael Brown and Stephane de Boysson, alongside returning curators Gottfried Eisenberger and Samar Kamel. Together, they will help shape the presentation of artworks and guide visitors through a diverse range of artistic practices.

Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, Dubai World Trade Centre, said the fair had developed into an international meeting point for artists, galleries and art enthusiasts.

She said the organisers aim to build on the event's international reach while creating opportunities for artists to connect with new audiences and making art more accessible to visitors.

Al Sharif added that the increase in artwork sales during the previous edition reflected growing interest in collecting and presented an opportunity to attract both new and experienced buyers.

PhotoWAD and Emerging Artist Prize Return

Photography will have a dedicated presence through PhotoWAD, which will introduce visitors to photographic works within the wider exhibition.

The Emerging Artist Prize will also return, providing a platform for rising artists to gain visibility and connect with audiences in an international art-fair setting.

Galleries from the UAE and international markets will exhibit alongside independent artists and UAE-based talent, bringing together different cultures, creative approaches and artistic perspectives.

The expanding gallery presence reflects growing participation in the fair and its role in connecting artists with potential buyers and collectors.

Workshops, Talks and Live Art Experiences

Beyond the exhibition stands, World Art Dubai 2026 will feature workshops, talks, performances, live demonstrations, installations and interactive activities.

More than 20 hands-on workshops will be included in the ticket price, offering adults and children opportunities to explore creative techniques. Free-to-attend talks will bring together artists, curators and industry professionals to discuss artistic practice, creativity and the art market.

Sunday, November 22, will be designated Family Day, with children's workshops and activities designed to encourage younger visitors to engage with art.

Schools will also participate in the programme, giving students opportunities to display their work and experience how artists, galleries and audiences interact within a professional art fair.

Emirati Artists Pavilion Highlights Local Talent

A dedicated Emirati Artists Pavilion will showcase Emirati creative talent within the fair's international setting, providing greater opportunities for visibility and engagement with collectors and buyers.

The event's support for artists will also extend beyond the exhibition through its Artist in Residence Programme, which connects artists with hotels in Dubai and creates opportunities to develop work, reach new audiences and collaborate outside the fair.

Participating hospitality partners include Hotel Indigo Downtown Dubai, SO/Uptown and Radisson RED. Residency activities are expected to continue beyond the event and into 2027.

These initiatives form part of World Art Dubai's broader contribution to the city's cultural and creative economy by connecting artistic practice with audiences, businesses and longer-term professional opportunities.

Dubai Culture and Industry Partners Support the Fair

World Art Dubai 2026 is supported by Dubai Culture as Strategic Partner, reinforcing the event's role within Dubai's wider cultural and creative landscape.

Specialist sponsors include Knightsbridge Group as Legal Sponsor, Qube Art as Framing and Installation Sponsor, and DiarBID Art House as Official Artist Services Support Sponsor.

With international exhibitors, a wider gallery presence, interactive programming and an emphasis on collecting, the 12th edition aims to bring artists and audiences together while creating opportunities for emerging talent and established creators to reach new markets.

Event details

• Event: World Art Dubai 2026

• Dates: November 19–22, 2026

• Venue: Za’abeel Halls 2 and 3, Dubai World Trade Centre

• Exhibitors: More than 300 from over 65 countries

• Artworks: More than 10,000

• Artwork prices: Approximately $100–$20,000