A landmark partnership between Frieze and the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is set to redefine the region’s cultural landscape. In November 2026, Abu Dhabi Art will transform into Frieze Abu Dhabi, signalling a new era for the emirate’s artistic and cultural ambitions on the global stage.
The evolution of Abu Dhabi Art
For nearly two decades, Abu Dhabi Art has been a cornerstone of the UAE’s cultural identity—fostering artistic dialogue, supporting emerging voices, and connecting the region to the international art market. Since its inception in 2008, the fair has grown alongside the capital’s cultural infrastructure, from the Louvre Abu Dhabi to a thriving network of museums, residencies, and art institutions.
The collaboration with Frieze marks a natural evolution of this legacy. With Frieze’s extensive global network and curatorial expertise, the partnership will strengthen Abu Dhabi’s role as a hub for artistic discovery, dialogue, and exchange. The initiative aims to amplify the emirate’s existing cultural ecosystem while introducing a distinctly Frieze sensibility—combining global perspective with local depth.
A shared vision for cultural leadership
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi described the partnership as an alignment of shared values: innovation, inclusivity, and internationalism. According to DCT Abu Dhabi’s leadership, this evolution is a step towards consolidating the city’s position as a cultural capital—one that not only celebrates art but also fosters long-term dialogue between artists, institutions, and audiences worldwide.
Frieze, in turn, sees the collaboration as an opportunity to build a fair deeply rooted in Abu Dhabi’s cultural heritage while bringing its signature approach to curatorial excellence and global reach. Together, the two institutions envision Frieze Abu Dhabi as a space for discovery—bridging artistic practices from the Middle East with the wider international art community.
Frieze Abu Dhabi: a global fair with local roots
Set to debut in November 2026 at Manarat Al Saadiyat, the inaugural edition of Frieze Abu Dhabi will bring together leading galleries from across the Middle East and beyond. The fair will feature new artist-led projects, curated sections, and talks designed to foster cross-cultural exchange and critical dialogue.
The transformation will take place following the 2025 edition of Abu Dhabi Art, which will continue under its current format. The transition period ensures continuity for participating galleries and audiences, while laying the groundwork for an expanded platform that reflects both local identity and global ambition.
Deutsche Bank, Frieze’s long-standing global lead partner, will continue its collaboration with the fair in Abu Dhabi, underscoring a commitment to supporting contemporary art and cultural dialogue worldwide.
Images courtesy of DEPARTMENT OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, Abu Dhabi
