The 10th Edition · 2 – 5 May 2024

Where the arts of the world unite

The region's largest contemporary art fair returned, in partnership with Dubai Culture, to celebrate a decade of artistic evolution.

Dates
2 – 5 May 2024
Venue
Dubai World Trade Centre
In partnership with
Dubai Culture
An artist's hand painting sweeping blue calligraphic strokes

World Art Dubai 2024

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About the edition

A journey through a decade of art

A visitor in a white ghutra viewing a shimmering painting

World Art Dubai 2024 opened its doors to art enthusiasts from 2nd to 5th May, offering an immersion into the world of contemporary art.

In partnership with Dubai Culture, World Art Dubai invited art enthusiasts to embark on a journey through a decade of artistic evolution — an unparalleled experience of art from around the globe, and a renewed commitment to making art accessible to a wider audience.

The fair expanded its reach with a diverse collection of over 10,000 artworks from 400+ renowned galleries and solo artists across more than 65 countries. Over four days, live art performances, seminars, curated talks and workshops promoted creative thinking for art lovers of all ages — a comprehensive cultural experience celebrating the vibrancy and diversity of the global art scene.

With the newly launched WAD Tourism Art Tour, the fair also offered exhibitors curated guided tours and interactive local art experiences across the emirates.

12 pavilions

  • Japan
  • India
  • China
  • Turkey
  • Iran
  • America
  • Asia
  • Russia
  • UAE
  • Europe
  • United Kingdom
  • Arabia
World Art Dubai is an amazing platform. The vibrant atmosphere, diverse artworks, and engaging activities create an incredible opportunity.
Tatiana Kramarenko · Scrawlgrapher artist, Ukraine

In a nutshell

The MENA region's biggest art fair

An extraordinary line-up of international artists and galleries made the 10th edition a celebration of art on a grand scale.

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Visitors

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Exhibitors

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Countries

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Solo artists

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Galleries

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Artworks

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Creative workshops

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Curated art talks

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Live performances

More than just an art fair

A multi-sensory experience

See and touch captivating artwork, smell the aromatic candles in the workshops, taste the food offerings and hear the vibrant music of live performances.

Collectors viewing paintings at a gallery booth
Exclusive

WAD VIP Preview

An exclusive evening for VIP guests, collectors and art buyers — early access to view and purchase artworks ahead of the public.

Visitors in front of a vivid large-scale abstract painting
Installations

Mind-blowing art installations

A stunning collection of installations from around the world that defied imagination and challenged artistic norms.

Artist performing a large ink-brush painting
Every medium

Diversity in the art

Paintings, prints, sculpture, textile art, installations, graffiti, photography, wearable art and digital art — something for every taste.

A visitor using a VR headset in front of a desert-themed artwork
Art Advisory

Visualise it at home

Complimentary one-on-one consultations led by Astrid Lesuisse and Filip Interiors — with VR to preview artwork in your own space.

An artist drawing a charcoal portrait at an easel
Mentorship

Art Mentorship Programme

Emerging talents thrived under the mentorship of renowned artists Dr. Najat Makki and Rashid Al Mulla.

A young child painting at a workshop table
Next generation

Future Artists at WAD

Students from the UAE's leading schools showcased collaborative works under the theme “Expressions of Emotions”.

A graffiti artist spray-painting a large photorealistic face

Urban Art DXB · 6th edition

Beyond its graffiti roots

Curated for the first time by Graffiti Dubai, Urban Art DXB returned as a vibrant hub of visual showcases and activities — featuring collaborations between international and local graffiti artists and a broad spectrum of creative expression.

  1. Spin Art Performance

    Artist Sergey Markofken splashed colour onto a spinning canvas, accompanied by music, creating beautiful swirling patterns.

  2. WAD Store

    In partnership with Ahlan W Sahln, art-inspired gifts where creativity meets craftsmanship.

WAD Programme Highlights

Workshops, talks & live performance

A diverse and dynamic array of experiences — here's a glimpse into the enriching activities that took place across the four days.

Korean traditional dance performance
Workshop at WAD Studio
An artist presenting work on the Art Walk runway
  1. WAD Studio

    Hands-on daily workshops led by experts — something for everyone to explore and experience.

    24 workshops · 600+ attendees
  2. Curated Art Talks

    Artistic, inspiring and informative talks from leading art experts on the topics shaping the art world.

    14 talks · 36 speakers
  3. Live Performances

    A unique fusion of art and entertainment — live painting, music, dance and more on stage.

    28 performances · 39 artists
  4. The Art Walk

    Art on the move, on the ramp: participating artists presenting their latest masterpieces on the catwalk.

    200+ artists across four days

WAD Awards

Celebrating exceptional talent

Recognising excellence among participating galleries and artists — and opening new doors for the artists of tomorrow.

World Art Dubai Awards

Best gallery, best artist & more

Celebrating excellence across categories including best gallery, best artist, outstanding artwork, best photographer and best sculptor.

Emerging Visual Artists Prize

“Cultural Crossroads”

In partnership with Rove Hotels, the 6th edition of the prize showcased rising talents and gave them a platform to advance their careers.

WAD Artist in Residence

Alex Lanier, USA

Awarded a two-month residency at 25hours Hotel to create a collection inspired by the city, culminating in an exhibition.

Hotel Indigo Exhibition Award

Rikka Gallery, Japan

The opportunity to exhibit their captivating collection at Hotel Indigo — bringing their artists to a wider audience.

Visitors profile

Who came to discover

Art enthusiasts20%
Artists15%
Art collectors14%
Interior designers13%
Galleries & art dealers12%
Corporate buyers11%
Occasional art buyers10%
Curators9%
Investors8%
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Impressed with the quality of art

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Came for the variety of art & artists

0%

Local visitors

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Tourists

Top visitor nationalities

  • UAE
  • India
  • Russia
  • United Kingdom
“World Art Dubai epitomises art on a grand scale. It's an essential event on my calendar, ensuring continuous inspiration and growth.”
Saloni PatwardhanMultimedia artist, India
“A realm of possibilities, fostering conversations, new techniques and an inspiring atmosphere. It's truly a remarkable exhibition.”
Petr ShebarshinAbstract artist, Spain
“World Art Dubai never fails to inspire me, even as a returning visitor. Each moment is a reminder of the boundless possibilities of art.”
MalakVisitor from Sudan

When & Where

Show timings

Venue

Dubai World Trade Centre

Za'abeel Halls 1, 2 & 3
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Open in Google Maps
1 MayWednesday · VIP Preview7PM – 10PM
2 MayThursday1PM – 8PM
3 MayFriday1PM – 10PM
4 MaySaturday1PM – 10PM
5 MaySunday1PM – 10PM
~300

Pieces of media coverage

427K

Social audience reached

14

Media partners