Abu Dhabi: Manar Abu Dhabi has opened its second edition across the emirate, following a successful preview in Al Ain earlier this month.
Organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the public light art exhibition has brought together Emirati and international artists to showcase new works inspired by the region’s cultural and natural landscapes.
The exhibition has featured 22 site-specific sculptures, projections, and immersive installations designed by 15 artists and collectives from 10 countries. Presented under the theme The Light Compass, this year’s edition explores the Gulf’s enduring relationship with light while inviting the public to engage with innovative artistic expressions.
Jubail Island has served as the anchor location for Manar Abu Dhabi, presenting 15 large-scale installations and performances. Participating artists include Shaikha Al Mazrou, Iregular, Ezequiel Pini (Six N. Five), Encor Studio, DRIFT, Pamela Tan, Lachlan Turczan, Christian Brinkmann, and Kirsten Berg.
For the first time, the exhibition has expanded to Al Ain’s cultural sites, listed as UNESCO World Heritage locations. Along the Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oasis Trails, visitors have experienced seven new installations by Maitha Hamdan, Ammar Al Attar, Christian Brinkmann, Khalid Shafar, Abdalla Almulla, and Rafael Lozano-Hemmer.
At Souq Al Mina, a large illuminated sculpture by KAWS, created in partnership with AllRightsReserved, has become a key highlight. The work features the artist’s iconic COMPANION figure reclining while lifting a glowing moon, blending scale, imagination, and light in a playful yet contemplative way.
In addition to the artworks, Manar Abu Dhabi has introduced a public program combining art, technology, and community engagement. The program includes talks, keynote lectures, workshops hosted by partners such as Fujifilm, The Knot, and Gracia Farms, as well as guided tours across the main exhibition sites. Visitors have also enjoyed performances by international acts including Bedouin Burger, Haepaary, and Ars Nova Napoli.
Wellness-focused experiences, nature walks, and sustainability activities created in collaboration with the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi’s Mangrove Initiative have added another dimension to the visitor experience. An immersive dining event led by chef Solemann Haddad of Moonrise has further expanded the exhibition’s creative offerings.
Workshops, talks, and several performances are free of charge, ensuring accessible participation for residents and visitors. With its multi-location program and cross-disciplinary focus, the exhibition continues to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s cultural landscape and highlight the emirate’s growing commitment to public art.
With its expanded footprint and multidisciplinary programming, Manar Abu Dhabi has reinforced the emirate’s position as a regional hub for contemporary public art. The exhibition has continued to attract residents, tourists, and art enthusiasts, offering accessible cultural experiences that highlight Abu Dhabi’s long-term investment in creativity and community engagement.
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