A Grand Debut in an Iconic Setting
Nomad Abu Dhabi made its highly anticipated debut from 19 to 22 November 2025 inside the celebrated Terminal 1 of Zayed International Airport—a modernist architectural treasure that once welcomed travelers but has since been reimagined as an extraordinary cultural space. This edition marked the first time the moving design and art showcase landed in the Middle East, bringing a vibrant fusion of collectible design, contemporary art, and immersive installations to the UAE capital.
From Airport Terminal to Creative Beacon
The choice of Terminal 1 was deeply symbolic. Designed in 1982 by French architect Paul Andreu at the request of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the building stands as a remarkable example of Gulf modernism. Its undulating mosaic roof, sweeping glass façade, and geometric details make it a natural backdrop for an event focused on the intersection of architecture, cultural heritage, and design innovation. Once closed to airline operations in 2023, the terminal’s revival for Nomad Abu Dhabi positioned it as a living canvas where history and creativity could intersect.
Nomad’s arrival here wasn’t just an event—it was a reinvigoration of space and narrative that allowed visitors to experience a landmark anew. The architectural spirit of geography and movement resonated throughout the fair, which transformed the terminal’s circular lounges and walkways into site-specific galleries.
Curated Experiences: Galleries and Global Participation
Nomad Abu Dhabi stood out for its carefully curated selection of more than twenty international galleries and institutions, each contributing to an immersive dialogue between place and practice. Participants included renowned names such as Nilufar from Milan, Gallery FUMI from London, and Galerie BSL from Paris, alongside dynamic regional presenters like The AP Room and Leila Heller Gallery.
What set this edition apart was its embrace of storytelling through materiality and form. Exhibitions showcased collectible design and contemporary art from across the globe, including historic pieces, limited-edition objects, sculptural furniture, and thought-provoking installations. The result was a sensory-rich journey that invited visitors to engage with each work not just as an object, but as part of a broader cultural conversation.
Special Projects and Cultural Conversations
Beyond gallery booths, Nomad Abu Dhabi introduced site-specific special projects that reflected its intent to go beyond conventional art fair formats. One noteworthy collaboration was the “Departures” concept, presented in partnership with Etihad Airways, where artists and designers responded to the idea of movement, identity, and travel—an especially poignant theme given the airport setting.
Interactive installations and talks also enriched the experience. On 20 November, for example, AD Talks brought together architects, designers, and curators to debate pressing questions about sustainability, cultural memory, and the future of architectural heritage. These conversations emphasized how art and design can shape our understanding of place and belonging in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
A Fusion of Heritage and Innovation
What made Nomad Abu Dhabi particularly compelling was its ability to fuse tradition with innovation. The fair highlighted work that honored regional craft traditions, Islamic aesthetics, and the material culture of the Middle East while simultaneously placing this heritage within a global context. This balance drew in audiences who were interested in both contemporary innovation and the deep roots of artistry present in the UAE and beyond.
Designs ranged from traditional artisanal pieces to avant-garde creations that challenged the boundaries of form and function. The integration of these distinct voices helped create a narrative that spanned generations, geographies, and cultural identities, reinforcing the idea that art and design exist in conversation—not isolation.
The Impact and Legacy of the Event
Nomad’s successful debut in Abu Dhabi wasn’t just a momentary spectacle; it symbolized something deeper about the city’s cultural trajectory. As part of a broader ecosystem that includes institutions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi museum, this edition solidified the emirate’s position as an emerging global hub for art, design, and cultural exchange.
The event’s success also signaled strong engagement from collectors, critics, and design enthusiasts alike. Early sales at the fair indicated robust interest, with several galleries reporting significant transactions and positive feedback. The energy and enthusiasm surrounding Nomad Abu Dhabi affirmed that the city’s cultural ambitions are increasingly aligned with international standards in art and design.
Looking Ahead: A Creative Future
As Nomad continues its journey around the world, its debut in Abu Dhabi stands as a milestone—a testament to what can be achieved when architecture, culture, and creativity converge in thoughtful and unexpected ways. This edition has laid the groundwork for future years of innovation, collaboration, and cross-cultural exchange within the region and beyond.
Nomad Abu Dhabi wasn’t simply a fair; it was a lived experience that invited audiences to reimagine how we engage with art and design, how we honor history, and how spaces once defined by movement and transition can become stages for inspiration and connection.
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