Dubai: The 12th Sikka Art & Design Festival has marked a significant milestone with record attendance highlighting its pivotal role in the local and regional art scene and reaffirming its significance in enriching the cultural and artistic landscape of the emirate.
The festival was organized under the patronage of Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and Member of the Dubai Council.
With pride, Dubai Culture said that over 162,000 people attended the event, which was organized under the auspices of the Dubai Art Season and allowed them to immerse themselves in the many treasures and artworks on display throughout the homes in the Al Shindagha Historic Neighborhood.
For the 10-day festival, guests also actively engaged in seminars, lively debate sessions, and artistic performances.
Fatma AlHelo, Project Manager of the Sikka Art & Design Festival, emphasized that, “Sikka has effectively enriched the Emirati, GCC, and international cultural and artistic landscape, elevating public appreciation through unique cultural experiences and high-quality artworks. It plays an integral role in providing opportunities for established and emerging artists to showcase their creativity, thereby supporting and promoting Dubai’s cultural and creative industries.”
AlHelo also extended her gratitude for the invaluable contribution of volunteers to the festival’s success, underscoring the Authority’s commitment to youth involvement and development in cultural and artistic fields.
More than 500 artists from the UAE, GCC, and around the globe participated in this year’s event, showcasing almost 300 pieces of art spread throughout 14 residences. Inspired by the festival theme, “New Creativity, Same Path,” each site showcased a variety of artistic expressions, including unique installations, digital works, sculptures, and interactive spaces.
Furthermore, the Al Shindagha Historic Neighborhood walls were covered with eight murals that embodied the essence of Dubai’s culture, legacy, and customs. These murals were distinguished by their distinct conceptions and styles. The Door to Pearls by Emirati artist Duha Al Hallami, “Joy Step” by artist Maryam Rashid AlKaitoob, and “The Old Dubai” painting created by designers Amna Mohammed Al Saleh, Hessa Naser Sulaiman, and Lutfi Alkhanji were among the notable murals.