Event Overview
A citywide cultural initiative transforming Abu Dhabi into an open-air museum during the winter season.
The Abu Dhabi Art Winter Program 2025 brings together a curated selection of public installations, contemporary art commissions, museum exhibitions, and cross-cultural collaborations presented throughout the capital. As an extension of the annual Abu Dhabi Art fair, the Winter Program expands artistic engagement beyond the fairgrounds, integrating art into public spaces, heritage districts, and waterfront areas. It reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to building a dynamic cultural ecosystem that connects local creativity with global perspectives.
1 December 2025 - 31 January 2026
Multiple locations across Abu Dhabi Central hub: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Mission:
The mission of the Abu Dhabi Art Winter Program is to nurture a sustainable cultural ecosystem by integrating art into everyday urban life and promoting dialogue between global and regional artistic communities. The program aims to: • showcase site-specific works that respond to the UAE’s landscape, history, and modern development; • support artists through commissions and cross-institutional partnerships; • increase accessibility by offering free public experiences; • establish Abu Dhabi as a leading cultural destination during the winter season. By expanding beyond traditional exhibition spaces, the Winter Program invites audiences to encounter contemporary art as part of the city’s living identity.
Organizer:
Organized by Abu Dhabi Art, under the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), in collaboration with local and international cultural institutions.
The Winter Program offers a rare opportunity to experience Abu Dhabi through a cultural lens, making it an essential seasonal event for art enthusiasts, collectors, travelers, and residents. Visitors can: • explore outdoor installations in ideal winter weather; • discover new commissions by regional and international artists; • engage with museum exhibitions and curated programs; • experience a cross-section of Abu Dhabi’s cultural institutions in one seasonal initiative; • gain insight into the evolving landscape of Middle Eastern contemporary art. The Winter Program enriches the city’s cultural rhythm and positions Abu Dhabi as a winter destination for global art tourism.
General admission costs
General admission varies by venue Outdoor installations: free Museum exhibitions: AED 20–60
Online booking is recommended for major shows
Abu Dhabi’s cultural sites are well-connected and easy to navigate:
• By car: Saadiyat Island, Corniche, and Al Mina districts are accessible via main highways.
• By taxi: Widely available and the fastest option for reaching multiple venues.
• By public bus: Services connect the main islands and downtown areas; routes operate throughout the day.
• From Dubai: Approximately 80 minutes by car via E11; intercity buses also available.
Visitors are encouraged to plan itineraries according to district, as many nearby institutions can be explored together.
Tickets are limited and sell out fast.
Get instant access to the official Abu Dhabi Art – Winter Program 2025 registration page and be the first to know about exclusive events, VIP passes, and travel perks.
Early access. Limited availability. Global art at your fingertips.
Launched as an extension of the annual Abu Dhabi Art fair, the Winter Program has grown into a defining cultural initiative for the UAE capital. Since its early iterations, the program has prioritized public engagement and the commissioning of outdoor works, contributing to Abu Dhabi’s long-term cultural vision.
By collaborating with leading institutions and inviting artists to respond to the city’s environmental and architectural context, the Winter Program has evolved into an influential platform that reflects Abu Dhabi’s rapid cultural development. The 2025 edition continues this trajectory with expanded installations, broader institutional participation, and a deeper focus on regional artistic dialogues.
• Plan your visit during early morning or late afternoon to enjoy outdoor installations comfortably.
• Many exhibitions are free, but museum entry may require timed tickets.
• Allocate time to explore nearby cultural districts, such as Saadiyat Island’s museums and galleries.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as many outdoor artworks are spread across walking areas.
• Check institution websites for guided tours, performances, and special events linked to the Winter Program.
• Combine cultural visits with Abu Dhabi’s winter waterfront activities for a full seasonal experience.
Don’t miss your chance to attend one of the world’s leading art fairs. Get direct access to the official ticketing page, exclusive updates, and important visitor information.
Early access. Limited availability. Global art at your fingertips.