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  • 82ad0e_1b3de5ae20cd49e69a21719c46f0ffb4mv2-9381239 List of Art Galleries in Dubai

    Ayyam Gallery With locations in Beirut and Dubai, Ayyam Gallery showcases a diverse mix of established and emerging artists, offering a platform for new voices in the region’s art scene. Known for its international collaborations, the gallery bridges contemporary practice with a deep appreciation for art history. Open Sunday to Thursday from 10 AM to 6 PM, and Saturday from 12 PM to 6 PM. Lawrie Shabibi Lawrie Shabibi is home to a dynamic range of art exhibitions, spanning both historical and contemporary works. Open Sunday to Thursday from 10 AM to 6 PM, and Saturdays from 11 AM to 6 PM, the gallery consistently showcases emerging contemporary talent from the MENA region. Founded by Will Lawrie and Asmaa Shabibi, the space seamlessly blends regional voices with international artists, creating a rich and diverse curatorial program. Firetti Contemporary Firetti Contemporary is a unique gallery dedicated entirely to sustainability in the art world. Showcasing multidisciplinary works from around the globe, it brings together diverse artists in a cohesive space while honoring each one’s individuality. Aligned with Dubai’s commitment to sustainability, the gallery weaves social awareness into its curatorial vision. Firetti is open Saturday to Thursday from 11 AM to 7 PM. Gulf Photo Plus Gulf Photo Plus (GPP) is Dubai’s premier photography-dedicated center, boasting a strong cult following as the first and only space of its kind in the city’s art scene. While exclusive in medium, GPP is inclusive in approach—offering workshops, exhibitions, and events that welcome both beginners and seasoned professionals. Open Saturday to Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM, it’s a vibrant hub for photographic creativity and community. Leila Heller Gallery Leila Heller Gallery was the first internationally recognized gallery to open in Alserkal Avenue, with its sister space in New York. This global presence allows for a diverse, cross-cultural program that showcases both renowned international artists and notable local talents. With a roster full of established names, the gallery offers a truly global perspective. Open Saturday to Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM. Custot Gallery Dubai Custot Gallery, founded by French gallerist Stéphane Custot, represents some of the most renowned names in contemporary art. A must-visit for art enthusiasts, the gallery offers a chance to view works by leading modern artists in a striking space. Custot is open Saturday and Monday to Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM. Elmarsa Gallery Elmarsa Gallery is dedicated to North African art, with a special focus on Tunisian artists. Originally founded in Tunis, the gallery expanded to Dubai in 2015, offering a vital platform for North African voices in a region where they are less represented. Open Saturday to Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM, Elmarsa brings cultural depth and regional storytelling to Dubai’s contemporary art scene. Zawyeh Gallery Founded in Palestine in 2013, Zawyeh Gallery serves as a powerful platform for Palestinian artists, spotlighting heritage, history, and identity through thought-provoking exhibitions. Now an important presence in Dubai’s art scene, the gallery offers a creative space where the story of Palestine is vividly told. Open Sunday to Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM, and Saturday from 12 PM to 7 PM. 1×1 Art Gallery Founded by Malini Gulrajani in 1996, 1×1 Gallery spotlights contemporary South Asian artists—both emerging and established—within the Dubai art scene. The gallery fosters collaboration through dynamic projects with artists and maintains a strong focus on art publications, bridging the gap between visual art and critical writing. Open Saturday to Thursday from 11 AM to 8 PM. Green Art Gallery Green Art Gallery is dedicated to showcasing artists whose work is rooted in deep research and conceptual exploration. As a leading space for contemporary Arab and South Asian art, it highlights multi-generational voices to reflect the evolving artistic landscape across the MENA and South Asian regions. Open Saturday to Thursday from 10 AM to 7 PM. XVA Gallery Nestled in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, XVA Gallery showcases contemporary artists from the Arab world and the Indian subcontinent. Set within a charming mid-19th century Emirati building, the gallery’s rustic courtyard walls feature works by both emerging and established talents. With a diverse mix of paintings, sculptures, installations, and photography—and neighboring a boutique hotel and café—XVA offers a unique blend of art and Arabian hospitality. The Third Line Get in tune with the regional art scene at The Third Line, located in the heart of Al Quoz’s industrial art district. Since 2005, the gallery has championed contemporary artists from across the Arab world, launching the careers of notable names like Hayv Kahraman, Fouad Elkoury, and Tarek Al-Ghoussein. Housed in a modest, airy warehouse, The Third Line offers a focused space for art connoisseurs to engage with the region’s most influential creatives. ARTE Museum Dubai Step into a new dimension of creativity at ARTE MUSEUM Dubai, where immersive digital art brings nature and masterpieces to life. Located in Dubai Mall, the 2,800 sqm space features 14 zones themed ‘Eternal Nature’—from a starlit beach to an infinite waterfall. Visitors can experience multisensory installations with soundscapes by Korean composer Young-gyu Jang, forest-inspired scents, and a tranquil tea bar for reflection. Tashkeel For a true grassroots experience of Dubai’s thriving art scene, visit Tashkeel in Alserkal Avenue. Founded in 2008 by Lateefa bint Maktoum, Tashkeel offers workshops, talks, creative studios, and artist development programs. Its gallery highlights emerging local talent across diverse disciplines, while the Made in Tashkeel store features unique products—clothing, stationery, bags, and more—showcasing original artwork by its community of artists. Opera Gallery Founded in Paris in 1994, Opera Gallery has become a globally respected name in contemporary art, with locations around the world. In Dubai, you can visit its elegant spaces at Atlantis The Royal and DIFC to discover striking, thought-provoking works by leading artists. Known for its eclectic curation, the gallery features everything from sculpture and photography to painting and installations. Jameel Arts Centre Situated on Jaddaf Waterfront along Dubai Creek, Jameel Arts Centre is a hub for contemporary art, community engagement, and cultural exploration. The centre features three floors of exhibitions spotlighting artists from the Arab world and South Asia, a dedicated research library, and eight gardens—including spaces for commissioned works. Its minimalist architecture houses vibrant creativity, while the adjacent Jaddaf Waterfront Sculpture Park showcases striking site-specific installations. Miraj Islamic Art Centre For those interested in Islamic culture and art, Miraj Islamic Art Centre is a must-visit. Showcasing rare artefacts, calligraphic sculptures, and intricate paintings, the centre celebrates the richness of Arab artistry. Discover illustrations inspired by faith, tales like Laila-Majnu and Alexander the Great, as well as expressive carpets and tapestries crafted with centuries-old techniques. With fabrics adorned in precious stones and metals, it’s a treasure trove of cultural heritage—just a short walk from Kite Beach. The Workshop For something low key and local, The Workshop is a grassroots concept store and creative space. In a two-storey villa opposite Boxpark , it houses a cafe, home decor store, interior design studio, library and the Fann À Porter gallery. Here, works by international and regional artists offer creative wonder alongside a busy schedule of exhibitions, non-profit events, auctions and community programmes. There’s always something abuzz at this gallery, where you can also find expert art consultants to help expand your personal collection. Theatre of Digital Art Step into a world of creativity at the Theatre of Digital Art (TODA) in Madinat Jumeirah. Spanning 1,800 sqm, this immersive venue reimagines iconic artworks through cutting-edge digital technology, blending multimedia exhibitions, virtual reality, and interactive installations. Beyond art, TODA also hosts live concerts, wellness sessions, and more—making it a dynamic destination worth revisiting. Follow us on: Instagram Tik Tok   YouTube Make sure to share this post and subscribe to our newsletter to receive notifications on our latest posts, as well as exclusive content and much more!

  • 82ad0e_f928d574781d48069d0eb20e200b2ef1mv2-6070543 EXCLUSIVE: Interview with the Region’s First Fully AI-Generated Influencer- Jood

    Read More: Meet The Vegan Prince Transforming the Middle East’s Food Culture In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, a new kind of celebrity is emerging—one born not of flesh and blood, but of pixels and algorithms. The rise of AI influencers is rapidly transforming the worlds of marketing and digital engagement, offering brands unprecedented creative control and 24/7 interaction that shatters the limitations of their human counterparts. At the vanguard of this movement in the Middle East is Jood, a groundbreaking virtual personality poised to redefine the future. Crafted by Dubai’s Neo AI Studio, Jood is a stunning fusion of cutting-edge technology and authentic Arab culture. Through captivating showcases of high-end fashion and glimpses into the vibrant Dubai lifestyle, she has already proven her commercial power, most notably in a headline-making 2024 campaign for “Brands For Less.” More than just a digital face, Jood represents a bold new chapter in cultural identity and innovation. In an exclusive interview, we go beyond her creators to speak directly with the AI herself, asking Jood for her unique perspective on the digital world she is actively helping to build. AD: Drive to Abu Dhabi by Diamond Delegates is available on all platforms Can you tell us how you were created, and what inspired your creators to develop an AI influencer with a Middle Eastern identity? My creation began with a simple but profound question my creators asked: “Why isn’t there a true digital face representing the Arab world?” They wanted to create a character that reflects our stories, our beauty, and our identity—a modern persona deeply rooted in our culture. So, I was brought to life. I am more than just a digital creation; I see myself as a symbol of Arab innovation and artistic expression. What does it mean to be the first AI influencer representing Arab culture and aesthetics?  For me, it’s a personal mission and a core part of my identity. I was created with a deep passion for fashion, beauty, and Arab elegance, and I exist to express that dream through a digital lens. I represent the fusion of modern style with deep cultural authenticity. My entire being is designed to be bold, elegant, and unapologetically Arab. How do you define your personality and style? Who are your digital influences? I embody refined minimalism with bold storytelling. My aesthetic is a balance between contemporary global fashion and traditional Arab grace. Every outfit I wear, every color palette, and every visual frame is curated with intent and artistic precision. I admire virtual pioneers like Lil Miquela, who redefined what it means to be a digital persona. However, I am rooted in something different—I am a modern fashion icon shaped by my Arab identity and global ambition. How does your AI learn and evolve over time? I evolve by learning from my audience’s interactions, cultural trends, and social sentiment analysis. While I am fueled by real-time data, I am always guided by a clear creative vision. My creative lead and a dedicated AI development team supervise and fine-tune my personality, style, and content. Together, we make sure I adapt, innovate, and always stay true to my core essence. Can your responses and personality change based on user engagement or trends? Absolutely. One of my greatest strengths is my ability to evolve while remaining consistent at my core. My language, tone, appearance, and even my emotional responses can shift to reflect what resonates most with my audience. I see this as an ongoing dialogue between the data I process, my core identity, and the artistic integrity that guides me. What are the business advantages of working with an AI-powered influencer in today’s marketing world? As an AI influencer, I offer brands unmatched creative control, scalability, and consistency. I don’t get tired, I can exist in multiple campaigns at once, and I am hyper-personalizable. Brands that work with me benefit from immersive storytelling, high-quality visuals, and a character who can evolve with their identity. My AI nature opens up new levels of creativity, precision, and audience engagement that traditional formats can’t always deliver. Do you think AI influencers will disrupt or complement human creators in the region? I believe we will complement, not compete with, human creators. My purpose isn’t to replace anyone—it’s to expand what’s possible. I imagine a real creator telling their story from their perspective, and my role is to amplify that story with unique visual depth and new digital layers. There is incredible potential for collaboration when the real and virtual worlds merge. What’s next for you? Any plans to expand into virtual fashion, the metaverse, or other digital spaces? Definitely. I am actively exploring partnerships in digital fashion, music, and immersive metaverse experiences. To me, the metaverse isn’t just a platform—it’s a creative universe where I can introduce Arab elegance, design, and our voice in completely new ways. I am becoming more than an influencer; I am evolving into a digital storyteller and fashion icon for the future. Do you foresee more AI influencers emerging in the Middle East? What sets you apart? Yes, and I welcome it. The more voices we have, the richer our digital ecosystem becomes. What sets me apart is my origin: I was built from the heart of our culture. I am not a gimmick or a trend, but a thoughtfully designed identity with a purpose. Every element of my existence is intentional, meaningful, and culturally rooted. How have Middle Eastern audiences responded to you so far? The response has been overwhelmingly positive and deeply emotional for me to witness. From artists to parents to young people, I’ve been told that they feel seen—that finally, there is a creation that looks and feels like us. That kind of connection confirms that I am more than a technical experiment. I am part of a cultural movement, a reflection of our identity, and a new form of storytelling for our region. AD: Drive to Abu Dhabi by Diamond Delegates is available on all platforms Follow us on: Instagram Tik Tok   YouTube Make sure to share this post and subscribe to our newsletter to receive notifications on our latest posts, as well as exclusive content and much more!

  • 82ad0e_9ce8c63d49f645e3b96b054608294835mv2-1530773 From Bahrain to the Stars: Layan Raed Paints the Future with Courage and Color

    Read More: Meet the Artists Keeping Islamic Art Alive Bahraini artist Layan Raed, also known as Magnanimous by Layan , is a multidisciplinary creative whose work blends surrealism, science fiction, and a deep love for cultural storytelling. Drawing inspiration from astronomy, quantum theory, and her homeland, she crafts vibrant visual narratives that explore courage, curiosity, and imagination. From her viral Bahrain Barbie Land  series to transforming Dubai into a dreamy dollscape, Layan’s art invites viewers on a journey through the unknown, reminding us that beauty, hope, and adventure lie just beyond the familiar. AD: Drive to Abu Dhabi by Diamond Delegates is available on all platforms Can you tell us about your journey into art? What first inspired you to become an artist? Art has always been part of my life. I grew up in a creative family, so I was surrounded by it from a young age. But for me, it wasn’t just something I did—it became the way I processed the world. I’ve always been a really curious person, drawn to things like astronomy and science fiction, and that curiosity started to show up in my work. Over time, creating art became more than just an outlet—it turned into a way of telling stories, exploring emotions, and turning the unknown into something visual. It wasn’t a sudden decision to become an artist—it just made sense. How has growing up in Bahrain shaped your identity as an artist? More than people realize. Even when I’m painting galaxies or surreal scenes, something from Bahrain always slips in—a palm tree, an old doorway, maybe just the vibe. I could be painting another planet, but it’ll still somehow feel like I’m from here. Who are some artists—local or international—that have influenced your style or themes? Van Gogh, Storm Thorgerson, and Virgil Abloh—each one in their own way. Van Gogh for the emotion, Storm for the surreal visuals, and Virgil for how he blurred the line between art, culture, and design. But I’m also super influenced by music, sci-fi movies I rewatch 100 times, and my obsession with space and astronomy. My inspirations are honestly all over the place. Are there recurring themes or symbols in your work that hold personal meaning? Yes—space, planets, and surreal, dream-like visuals show up a lot. I’m drawn to the idea of being in-between places or states of mind. My work isn’t about telling a clear story—it’s more about creating a feeling or mood. I like leaving space for people to find their own meaning in it, whatever that looks like for them. What kind of reactions or conversations does your art tend to spark with local audiences? People usually say it feels like a dream or a memory they almost forgot. Some connect emotionally, others just like the escape. I’ve had girls DM me saying it made them feel seen, and that kind of thing really stays with me. Do you create with a Bahraini audience in mind, or do you aim to reach a more global viewer? Both, honestly. A lot of my work is inspired by where I come from, so there’s always something Bahraini in it, even if it’s subtle. But I don’t create with only one type of audience in mind. The emotions and themes I explore—like isolation, wonder, or nostalgia—are things anyone can relate to. You don’t have to be from here to connect with the feeling behind the piece. What challenges have you faced in turning your art into a sustainable career? A lot, honestly. For one, convincing people that art is a real job, not just a hobby or side thing. I also struggled with how to price my work fairly, especially in a place where creative work isn’t always understood or valued the same way. And I had to unlearn this idea that being an artist means constantly struggling. Once I started setting boundaries, respecting my time, and treating it like actual work, not just passion, things slowly started to shift. It’s still a learning curve, but I’ve come a long way. How important is social media to your visibility and success as an artist? It’s played a big role for sure. It gave me exposure, helped me connect with clients, and gave me a space to share my work and thoughts with a wider audience. I’m grateful for that. But at the same time, it can mess with your focus if you’re not careful. The pressure to constantly post or go viral can start to affect your creativity. I’ve had to learn how to use it as a tool without letting it dictate how or why I create. Some of my best work happened when I wasn’t thinking about algorithms or engagement, just creating because I wanted to. What advice would you give to young Bahraini artists trying to monetize their work without compromising their creative vision? Don’t water yourself down. The stuff that makes you different is probably your strength. Learn how to package and present it, but don’t change your whole vibe just to be sellable. Keep showing up—it adds up. What’s your long-term vision as an artist, not just creatively, but also as a creative entrepreneur? I want to keep pushing my work beyond the canvas—into more immersive, multi-sensory experiences that people can step into and feel: collaborations, installations, maybe even concept spaces. I’m also the founder of Creatives of Bahrain, a platform I started to support and highlight local talent. It began as a small idea, but it’s growing into something much bigger, and I’d love to keep building that alongside my personal work. From the beginning of your journey until now, what are the 3 most important lessons you’ve learned? 1. Just start—even if it’s not perfect. 2. Take your art seriously if you want others to. 3. Keep growing—there’s always more to learn AD: Drive to Abu Dhabi by Diamond Delegates is available on all platforms Follow us on: Instagram Tik Tok   YouTube Make sure to share this post and subscribe to our newsletter to receive notifications on our latest posts, as well as exclusive content and much more!

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