Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 is set to return, bringing a spectacular display of light-based art to the capital. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has officially announced the locations for the second edition of this immersive exhibition. Scheduled to run from November 15, 2025, to January 4, 2026, this year’s event promises to expand across the emirate, introducing new locations and a wider audience experience.
Overview of Manar Abu Dhabi 2025
Building on the success of its inaugural edition, Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 is designed to engage both residents and visitors with a creative journey through light. The exhibition will feature over 35 installations by a mix of international and Emirati artists. Titled “The Light Compass,” the theme explores light as a guiding force and a medium of expression, reflecting the region’s deep historical and cultural relationship with illumination.
The exhibition is curated by Khai Hori, Artistic Director, alongside co-curators Alia Zaal Lootah, Munira Al Sayegh, and Mariam Alshehhi. Their vision is to create an experience that spans Abu Dhabi’s diverse landscapes, from mangroves and sandbanks to urban centers and gardens, offering visitors a new way to interact with the city through art.
New Locations and Expanded Reach
One of the highlights of this year’s edition is the expansion to new locations, including areas beyond the capital. Jubail Island will serve as the centerpiece of the exhibition, while Al Ain will host several installations for the first time. This expansion demonstrates Manar Abu Dhabi’s growing influence across the UAE and its commitment to reaching a wider audience.
Al Ain offers a unique setting for light installations. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it combines natural beauty and historical significance. Visitors can explore installations in areas such as Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oases. These locations provide a distinctive backdrop, connecting modern art with ancient landscapes and highlighting the relationship between water, land, and life.
Community Engagement and Public Programs
Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 is more than just a visual spectacle. It emphasizes community engagement and public interaction. A series of workshops, talks, and live performances will accompany the exhibition. These activities are designed to deepen the public’s understanding of the art, inspire creativity, and encourage visitors to explore the emirate in new ways.
By integrating educational and interactive components, the exhibition seeks to inspire local talent and foster a sense of cultural pride. It also encourages visitors to see Abu Dhabi as a living canvas, where art and landscape coexist in harmony.
Nextchem and the Focus on Sustainability
Nextchem, part of the MAIRE Group, plays an important role in supporting the exhibition’s sustainable initiatives. With strong Italian roots and a global presence in over 50 countries, Nextchem specializes in green energy and chemical solutions, offering technologies that help industries transition toward more sustainable practices.
Their collaboration with Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 highlights the intersection of art, technology, and environmental responsibility. Nextchem’s expertise ensures that the exhibition not only dazzles audiences with creativity but also reflects a commitment to sustainability. This aligns with the broader goal of using art to promote awareness about energy conservation and eco-friendly practices.
Highlights of the Exhibition
Visitors to Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 can expect a variety of innovative installations:
- Interactive Light Sculptures: These artworks respond to movement, sound, and touch, creating immersive experiences.
- Urban Installations: Artworks placed in city spaces will transform public areas, offering a fresh perspective on familiar locations.
- Natural Landscapes: Coastal areas, gardens, and oases will host pieces that interact with natural elements, such as water reflections and desert light patterns.
- Workshops and Performances: Interactive programs will engage families, students, and art enthusiasts, fostering creativity and participation.
Each installation has been carefully designed to encourage exploration and reflection, making the exhibition accessible and engaging for a diverse audience.
Importance of Manar Abu Dhabi 2025
Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 plays a significant role in Abu Dhabi’s cultural calendar. It strengthens the emirate’s position as a hub for arts and innovation, attracting global talent and visitors. By combining technology, art, and sustainability, the exhibition demonstrates how modern creative practices can coexist with traditional values and natural environments.
The event also supports local artists, giving them an international platform to showcase their work. This collaborative approach emphasizes the importance of cultural exchange and the shared experience of art in public spaces.
Future Outlook
With the introduction of new locations and expanded programming, Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 is expected to draw large crowds from across the UAE and abroad. It exemplifies Abu Dhabi’s ongoing commitment to cultural growth and its dedication to integrating creativity with sustainability.
The combination of engaging installations, educational programs, and eco-friendly practices ensures that visitors will enjoy a meaningful and memorable experience. By connecting art, community, and innovation, Manar Abu Dhabi continues to shape the cultural identity of the capital and set a benchmark for future artistic events.
Visiting Manar Abu Dhabi 2025
Visitors are encouraged to plan their visit in advance to explore the full range of installations and programs. Locations will be spread across Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, each offering unique experiences that highlight the city’s landscapes and heritage.
Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 is suitable for all age groups and provides opportunities for families, students, and tourists to engage with art in an interactive setting. Public programs, workshops, and performances are designed to complement the visual experience, making it a truly immersive event.
Conclusion
Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 promises an unforgettable journey through light and creativity. With expanded locations, community-focused programs, and a strong commitment to sustainability through Nextchem’s collaboration, the exhibition highlights Abu Dhabi’s status as a leader in culture, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
Whether exploring the city’s urban spaces, natural landscapes, or historical oases, visitors will experience art in a new and meaningful way. Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 is not only an exhibition but also a celebration of the emirate’s heritage, innovation, and vision for a sustainable future.
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