Presented by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), the second edition of the landmark light art exhibition is now available for the public across the emirate, expanding from its highly praised launch in Al Ain earlier this month.
Manar Abu Dhabi, themed ‘The Light Compass’, brings together 15 artists and collectives from the UAE and abroad, representing 10 countries. Alongside the artworks, visitors can enjoy a dynamic calendar of talks, live performances, workshops, and interactive experiences designed for all ages.
After drawing considerable attention with its Al Ain debut, Manar Abu Dhabi—the widely celebrated public light art exhibition delivered by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi)—is now officially open at multiple locations throughout the emirate for its second edition. The showcase includes 22 specially commissioned installations, ranging from light sculptures to projections and immersive environments, each highlighting creativity and the unique interplay of Abu Dhabi’s natural and urban settings.
Curated by Khai Hori, Artistic Director, with co-curation by Alia Zaal Lootah (Curator), Munira Al Sayegh (Curator), and Mariam Alshehhi (Assistant Curator), this year’s exhibition explores the concept of ‘The Light Compass’. The theme unites a range of artworks that reflect the Gulf region’s deep-rooted cultural and historical connection with light.
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.
