Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the second edition of the signature light art exhibition is now live across the emirate, following its warmly received opening in Al Ain earlier in the month.
Carrying the theme ‘The Light Compass’, Manar Abu Dhabi presents works by 15 artists and artistic groups from 10 countries. The exhibition is supported by an extensive public programme that includes discussions, creative performances, practical workshops, and a range of immersive artistic encounters.
After captivating audiences in Al Ain, Manar Abu Dhabi—the prominent public light art showcase curated by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi)—has officially opened its second edition across four locations throughout the emirate. The exhibition introduces 22 works comprising light-based sculptures, projection-led pieces, and immersive installations, each designed to bring out the rich cultural and environmental character of Abu Dhabi.
Under the artistic leadership of Khai Hori, Artistic Director, with the support of co-curators Alia Zaal Lootah (Curator), Munira Al Sayegh (Curator), and Mariam Alshehhi (Assistant Curator), this year’s exhibition is framed by the theme ‘The Light Compass’. The artworks presented examine the heritage of the Gulf through its historical bond with light and its role in shaping collective imagination.
Serving as the anchor location for Manar Abu Dhabi, Jubail Island showcases 15 large-scale installations and performances by artists Shaikha Al Mazrou, Iregular, Ezequiel Pini (a.k.a. Six N. Five), Encor Studio, DRIFT, Pamela Tan, Lachlan Turczan, Christian Brinkmann and Kirsten Berg, who collectively introduce bold perspectives and innovative approaches to light-based art. For the first time, the exhibition has extended to the cultural sites of Al Ain, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, where visitors can explore seven site-specific works along the Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oasis Trails, with contributions from Maitha Hamdan, Ammar Al Attar, Christian Brinkmann, Khalid Shafar, Abdalla Almulla and Rafael Lozano-Hemmer. At Souq Al Mina, a work by KAWS, in collaboration with long-time partner AllRightsReserved, will take centrestage. KAWS:HOLIDAY Abu Dhabi, a luminous COMPANION reclining on its back while lifting a glowing moon, highlights the exhibition’s exploration of light, scale, and imagination.
Alongside the exhibited artworks, Manar Abu Dhabi features a dynamic public programme that brings art, technology, and community together. Highlights include a series of thought-provoking talks, keynote lectures with featured artists, and interactive workshops led by artists and partners including Fujifilm, The Knot and Gracia Farms. Visitors will enjoy a vibrant line-up of performances from international acts including Bedouin Burger, Haepaary, and Ars Nova Napoli, alongside wellness and nature-focused experiences such as guided meditations, nature walks, and sustainability activities with the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi’s Abu Dhabi Mangrove Initiative. In collaboration with WE ARE ONA and Luca Pronzato, WE ARE ONA X Manar Abu Dhabi will present an immersive dining experience by guest chef Solemann Haddad of Michelin-starred restaurant Moonrise. Manar Abu Dhabi talks and performances, alongside many of the workshops, are free of charge. The exhibition’s programme is complemented by guided tours and exciting food and beverage pop-ups at Jubail Island, Al Qattara Oasis, and Al Jimi Oasis, creating a fully immersive experience.
Manar Abu Dhabi is now open to public till 4 January 2026, entry is free of charge.
Discover the full programme here.
