Manar Abu Dhabi returned under the theme ‘The Light Compass’, presenting 22 site-specific artworks across Jubail Island, Souq Al Mina, Al Qattara Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis.
The public light art exhibition, organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) as part of the Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, closed on 4 January 2026. Since reopening in November 2025, the event welcomed more than 800,000 visitors. Communities came together to experience the emirate’s coastal, desert and urban landscapes through light installations.
Fifteen artists and collectives from 10 countries took part in the second edition. They delivered 22 works, including sculptures, projections and immersive pieces. For the first time, the exhibition extended to Al Ain’s UNESCO-listed heritage sites. This created a link between modern artistic practice and historic locations.
The exhibition followed a curatorial vision set by Khai Hori (Artistic Director), Alia Zaal Lootah (Curator), Munira Al Sayegh (Curator) and Mariam Alshehhi (Assistant Curator). Guided by the theme ‘The Light Compass’, the programme explored how light acts as both a tool and a guide. The exhibition encouraged visitors to engage with each site and reflect on the region’s cultural ties to light.
Participating artists included Abdulla Al Mulla, Ammar Al Attar, Christian Brinkmann, DRIFT, Encor Studio, Ezequiel Pini (a.k.a. Six N. Five), Iregular, KAWS, Khalid Shafar, Kirsten Berg, Lachlan Turczan, Maitha Hamdan, Pamela Tan, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer and Shaikha Al Mazrou. Their works were installed across all four locations, with Jubail Island as the central hub. The installations focused on light as a guide through history and place.
The exhibition also featured a public programme that mixed art, technology and community activity. Visitors joined talks, performances and creative workshops. Events included a live show by EMEL and a pop-up dining experience, WE ARE ONA X Manar Abu Dhabi, which marked the brand’s first Middle East project. Sessions on wellness and climate themes also formed part of the schedule.
Manar Abu Dhabi sits within the wider Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative. Led by DCT Abu Dhabi, the programme aims to strengthen the link between art and public life. Future projects include the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, which supports cultural exchange through contemporary practice.
