Top Art Galleries in Dubai: A Guide to Dubai’s Art Scene

List of Top Art Galleries in Dubai (2026 Edition)

The best art galleries in Dubai don’t just display exceptional work, they offer immersive experiences that connect visitors with the region’s diverse artistic expressions.

Ayyam Gallery

Founded in Damascus in 2006 by Khaled and Jouhayna Samawi, Ayyam Gallery has become a global symbol of Middle Eastern artistry. Now based in Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue and DIFC, the gallery promotes regional talent and preserves more than 22,000 Syrian artworks rescued from conflict. The Samawis’ efforts have turned Ayyam Gallery into a sanctuary for creativity and a vital platform for emerging artists across the Middle East.

Green Art Gallery

Established in 1995 by Mayla Atassi, Green Art Gallery champions contemporary artists from the Middle East, South Asia, North Africa, and Turkey. The gallery has been pivotal in placing Dubai on the global cultural map, regularly exhibiting at prestigious events such as Art Dubai, Art Hong Kong, and the Moving Image Fair in London.
Its commitment extends beyond exhibitions — the gallery offers scholarships, supports emerging talent, and archives important regional artworks.

Lawrie Shabibi

Launched in 2010 by William Lawrie and Asmaa Al-Shabibi, Lawrie Shabibi bridges generations of artists, from regional pioneers to emerging voices. The gallery stands out for its focus on socio-political themes, memory, identity, and history. By combining established and new artists, Lawrie Shabibi creates exhibitions with depth, context, and relevance to contemporary audiences.

The Third Line

Opened in 2005, The Third Line was among Dubai’s first contemporary art galleries dedicated to Middle Eastern artists. Beyond exhibitions, it publishes bilingual art books and runs non-profit programmes encouraging dialogue around art, music, literature, and film. It continues to be a leading force in showcasing the region’s creative diversity and nurturing upcoming talent.

EDEN Gallery

Located inside The Dubai Mall, EDEN Gallery brings an international touch to Dubai’s art scene. Originating from a global network of luxury galleries, EDEN is known for its vibrant, high-end contemporary art collections featuring bold colours and distinctive forms. The gallery represents globally recognised artists and provides an immersive retail-art experience, bridging fine art and lifestyle.

Its presence in one of the world’s most visited destinations underlines Dubai’s position as a global meeting point for creativity, culture, and commerce.

Emerging Art Spaces and Local Artists to Watch

Many of Dubai’s leading galleries are located in purpose-built creative hubs, where established institutions and upcoming artists thrive side by side.

Alserkal Avenue

Founded in 2008, Alserkal Avenue began as a modest warehouse collective and has evolved into a 500,000-square-foot cultural district integrating art, design, film, and gastronomy. Created by Abdelmonem bin Eisa Alserkal, the space encourages collaboration between artists, filmmakers, and cultural thinkers. Today, it stands as the heartbeat of Dubai’s contemporary art movement.

Jameel Arts Centre

Situated on the Jaddaf Waterfront, Jameel Arts Centre is a striking modern space that celebrates contemporary art. Its sculpture park, amphitheatre, gardens, and open research centre create a welcoming environment for artists and visitors alike. The centre’s accessibility and inclusivity make it one of Dubai’s most vibrant creative spaces.

Artists Defining Dubai’s Creative Identity

Dubai’s art scene thrives on its talented local artists, each contributing a unique voice to the city’s evolving narrative.

• Mohammed Kazem – Known for transforming sound into visual art through experimental techniques.

• Shaikha Al Mazrou – A leading sculptor whose bold, geometric works explore colour, abstraction, and structure.

• Maitha Abdalla – A multidisciplinary artist combining painting, photography, performance, and sculpture to explore themes of identity and self-expression.

Art Events and Exhibitions in Dubai

Dubai hosts a packed calendar of international art events that bring together creators, collectors, and enthusiasts from around the world.

Art Dubai

Held annually, Art Dubai is the region’s flagship art fair, showcasing more than 120 galleries from over 40 countries. The event features artist commissions, conferences, and a digital art summit, making it one of the most influential gatherings in the global art circuit.

Next event: 17–19 April 2026.

World Art Dubai

The largest art event in the MENA region, World Art Dubai 2025 featured over 10,000 artworks from 400+ artists across 65 countries. Expect workshops, performances, and live showcases in 2026.

Next event: 23–26 April 2026.

Sikka Art and Design Festival

Organised under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Sikka celebrates Emirati and GCC artists through exhibitions, talks, film screenings, and performances.

Next event: 23 January – 1 February 2026.

Plan your calendar accordingly, most major art events take place during the first half of the year, offering visitors the chance to experience multiple festivals in one trip.

Why Dubai Is Emerging as a Global Art Hub

Several factors have propelled Dubai’s rise as a major centre for art and culture:

• Government Support: Incentives for galleries, artists, and cultural entrepreneurs encourage long-term investment in the arts.

• Infrastructure Investment: Dedicated creative districts, museums, and public art spaces provide a strong foundation for growth.

• Cultural Diversity: Dubai’s cosmopolitan mix fosters artistic exchange and experimentation, attracting talent from every continent.

Buying Art in Dubai: 3 Tips for Collectors

Whether you're considering buying art for investment or simply decoration, these top tips can help you choose wisely:

1. Know Your Taste: Identify your preferred art style, contemporary, modernist, or classical, before starting your collection.

2. Set a Budget: Art can be a significant investment. Establish a price range to streamline your search and focus on what resonates most.

3. Choose Trusted Sellers: Always buy from accredited galleries or consult a professional art advisor to ensure authenticity and long-term value.

Conclusion

Dubai’s art scene reflects the same ambition and global mindset that define the city itself. Whether you’re visiting galleries, attending art fairs, or starting your own collection, the city offers endless opportunities for discovery.

And if your interests extend beyond art into property investment, Engel & Völkers Dubai can guide you every step of the way. With our global reach and deep understanding of the local market, we help clients make informed decisions and maximise their real estate investments.

Contact us today to start your property journey with confidence.