DCT Abu Dhabi launches 2nd phase of Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial

Photo: Abu Dhabi Media Office

The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial has now entered its second phase, bringing seven new art installations to famous places across Abu Dhabi. This major art event will continue until April 30, 2025, and aims to bring people together through art, culture, and creativity.

This exhibition includes more than 70 artists from the UAE and around the world, with 40 brand-new artworks placed in different parts of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. The event focuses on displaying artworks in public places where everyone can see and enjoy them.

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New Art Installations Across Abu Dhabi

After the first phase began in November, this second phase will introduce new art pieces by Anga Art Collective, Arquitectura Expandida, Ayesha Hadhir, Lúcia Koch, Rand Abdul Jabbar, and Tarik Kiswanson. An artwork by Atelier Aziz Al Qatami will continue to develop at the Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal.

In the coming months, more new installations will be added by artists Hussein Sharif, Emily Jacir, Nnenna Okore, Rami Kashou with Emirati Artisans, Alia Farid, and Latifa Saeed. The exhibition will conclude in April with a special performance by Mobile Akademie Berlin.

Where Can You See the Art?

The art pieces are spread across eight different routes in Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, making it easy for visitors to explore them on foot or by car. The routes include:

• Abu Dhabi Corniche Route

• Abu Dhabi Public Parks Route

• Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal Route

• Downtown Abu Dhabi Route

• Carpet Souq Route

• National Theatre Route

• Cultural Foundation Route

• Al Ain Oasis Route

Public Activities for Everyone

Along with the art installations, a public programme has been designed for people of all ages. These activities will take place at different Biennial locations, including the Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal, which is an important modern heritage building in the city.

The programme will offer:

• Guided tours and talks about the artworks

• Workshops where visitors can learn about art

• Live performances and interactive events

• Wellness activities

• Film screenings at the Cultural Foundation, including Wael Shawky’s Drama 1882 (2024), which was first shown at the Venice Biennale

• Public performances at the Carpet Souq, where artist Christopher Joshua Benton will work with the community

Why Is This Event Important?

Reem Fadda, Director of Culture Programming at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), explained that this event is an important step for Abu Dhabi’s art scene. The second phase of the Biennial brings different artistic ideas to public spaces, showing how culture, nature, and modern city life connect with each other.

Clémence Bergal, Public Art Abu Dhabi Director at DCT Abu Dhabi, said that this event is part of a bigger initiative to make art a part of everyday life in Abu Dhabi. The Biennial helps to protect important buildings and urban spaces while encouraging creativity. The goal is to make public art available to everyone and to create a long-lasting impact on the city's culture and history.