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Latin Art Fest – Celebrating the Spirit of Latin Culture in Dubai

Presented by ARTUAE and Artissima in collaboration with the Al Quoz Project

As part of the Dubai Shopping Festival’s milestone 20th edition and its “Journey of Celebrations,” Latin Art Fest (LAF) brought an electrifying fusion of Latin-American and Spanish culture to the vibrant creative district of Al Quoz. Held on 30 January 2015, this one-night cultural extravaganza transformed 8th Street’s Alleyway and Artissima Gallery into a dynamic hub of color, rhythm, and expression.

The festival featured 118 works of art, live music performances, regional culinary experiences, and cultural showcases representing Latin America and Spain. From salsa and samba to flamenco and folklore, the event provided a street-style atmosphere filled with energy, inclusion, and celebration.

A major highlight was the first solo Middle East exhibition of multi-award-winning British fine art photographer Tariq Zaidi, titled "Latinos in the UAE" . The exhibition captured the lives and spirit of Latin communities in the Emirates and remained open for two weeks following the festival.

A Bridge Between Cultures

Dr. Ximena Cordova, Project Manager of LAF, shared:

"We hope this event strengthens the connection between the 50,000-strong Latin community and the UAE, while reviving ancient links between Arab and Hispanic cultures. Dubai, once again, shines as a global cultural crossroad."

Maria Urrutia, Founder of the Al Quoz Project, added:

"LAF transformed the streets of Al Quoz into a carnival of art, flavor, and Latin passion. We’re proud to present this cultural landmark for Dubai."

Organized & Supported By:

Organized by: The Al Quoz Project

Presented by: ARTUAE & ITL World – Middle East’s Leading Travel Management Company

Supported by:

Bailame Cuba, Easy Dance, BNF, Bazar Latino, Latinos en los Emiratos Árabes Unidos, El Correo del Golfo

Participating Embassies & Consulates:

Argentina, Chile, Colombia, Dominican Republic, Mexico, Panama, Peru, and Uruguay

Latin Art Fest 2015 was more than an event—it was a cultural movement celebrating art, unity, and the vibrant heritage of Latin America and Spain, right in the heart of Dubai.

ARTUAE x INDEX: Empowering Creativity Through Cultural Bridges

ARTUAE is a UAE-based platform dedicated to elevating contemporary art while honoring the deep cultural heritage of the Emirates. With a steadfast vision to touch lives through artistic expression, ARTUAE actively supports artists, curators, and communities—transforming passion into purpose.

This year, ARTUAE proudly collaborates with the prestigious INDEX Exhibition, hosted annually at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), one of the region’s most prominent trade fair venues. INDEX, recognized as the Middle East’s largest and longest-running interiors and design exhibition, brings together global designers, architects, and innovators shaping the future of living and working spaces.

Through this association, ARTUAE contributes a distinctive cultural layer to INDEX by presenting immersive art showcases, installations, and curated galleries that reflect the soul of the Emirates. ARTUAE’s presence amplifies the human side of design—where craftsmanship, emotion, and heritage meet innovation.

Why This Partnership Matters

Bridging Art & Interiors: By merging the realms of fine art with interior design, ARTUAE and INDEX foster dialogue between creative disciplines, redefining how art is experienced in modern environments. Celebrating Emirati Heritage: The collaboration proudly champions Emirati traditions and artisanship while spotlighting UAE-based contemporary artists and global creatives inspired by the region. Inspiring Through Engagement: Visitors can expect thought-provoking exhibits, interactive installations, and live art performances that invite participation, conversation, and cultural exchange.

ARTUAE’s Mission

To create lasting impact by embedding art into daily life, public spaces, and events. To support the welfare of artists and build sustainable ecosystems around their work. To promote cultural diplomacy by highlighting historical and contemporary links between the UAE and the wider world.

ARTUAE believes that art is not just to be seen, but to be felt, experienced, and lived. With its growing footprint at leading platforms like INDEX, ARTUAE continues its journey as a cultural catalyst—celebrating creativity, building community, and honoring the legacy of the UAE.

EMIRATISM – Year of Zayed Art Exhibition

Hosted by ARTUAE & Sathar Al Karan

Venue: Shangri-La Dubai

Honoring the Legacy. Celebrating the Culture. Bridging the Future.

In celebration of the Year of Zayed, ARTUAE and visionary curator Sathar Al Karan proudly presented “EMIRATISM – Year of Zayed Art Exhibition” at Shangri-La Dubai. The exhibition brought together leading artists from the UAE and beyond to pay tribute to the life, legacy, and values of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founding father of the United Arab Emirates.

The event was officially inaugurated by Sheikha Dr. Hind Al Qassimi, and held in partnership with Colors of Peace, represented by Ambassador Aurela Cuku, Founder & CEO of Global Agency MENA. The evening was graced by several dignitaries, art patrons, and international delegates in a true spirit of cross-cultural unity.

Art as Legacy: From Coins to Canvas

A highlight of the exhibition was the unique collection of Emirati cultural expressions through painting, sculpture, and mixed media. The theme of the evening centered around Emirati identity, heritage, and Sheikh Zayed’s visionary leadership.

Among the standout artists:

Latifa Ibrahim Ahmed, an emerging Emirati artist inspired by her travels, showcased vibrant artworks reflecting national pride and her personal artistic journey since 2005. She envisions a dedicated gallery for young talent and inclusive art education. Abdul Rauf, another innovative Emirati artist, captivated audiences with his “Coins of the World” series—two large-format coin-inspired installations that celebrated the UAE’s evolving economic and cultural identity. His “rotating paintings” —a groundbreaking four-in-one hanging format—blended adaptive design with traditional motifs, offering dynamic visual narratives with every turn. Guest Artist Ahmed Cinar from Turkey added a cross-cultural dimension to the event with his exquisite, themed artisan carpets—textile artworks that were a magnet for art lovers and collectors alike.

A Movement in the Making

EMIRATISM is more than an exhibition—it is a cultural movement led by ARTUAE, affirming the power of art to preserve heritage, promote inclusivity, and envision a shared future. As ARTUAE continues to amplify Emirati and regional voices in the art world, the exhibition marks a milestone in uniting creativity with national identity.

This event is part of a larger commitment by ARTUAE to foster community-centric art experiences, with a growing network of artists, partners, and institutions. The Year of Zayed exhibition stands as a shining example of how art can both honor history and inspire progress.

Sparrow Art Exhibition

By ARTUAE, Global Art Foundation & Autism Trust Foundation

Curated by Sathar Al Karan

Held at the prestigious Shangri-La Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, the Sparrow Art Exhibition brought together a powerful convergence of art, empathy, and social purpose. Organized by Sathar Al Karan, ARTUAE, and the Global Art Foundation, and proudly supported by the Autism Trust Foundation, the event celebrated neurodiverse talent, inclusion, and the healing power of creativity.

The exhibition was inaugurated by the Chairman of the Autism Trust Foundation and Adam of Family Office, in a heartfelt ceremony that echoed the mission of bridging art with meaningful impact.

Among the featured talents was young prodigy Aman Krishna, an emerging artist whose vibrant expression captivated audiences with themes of resilience and hope. His works, alongside those of several curated international and regional artists, reflected the symbolic grace of the sparrow —a metaphor for freedom, fragility, and the interconnectedness of all lives.

The Sparrow Art Exhibition also served as a platform to raise awareness and foster inclusion for individuals on the autism spectrum, making it not only an art event but a movement toward compassion and community engagement.

With the vision and leadership of Sathar Al Karan, this initiative underlines ARTUAE’s ongoing commitment to using art as a tool for cultural dialogue, mental well-being, and social unity.

“Art never expresses anything but itself” – ART UAE 2014

On Friday, December 12, ARTUAE unveiled its highly anticipated 5th Edition at the iconic Armani Oasi, Burj Khalifa in Dubai. With elegance and diversity at its core, this edition brought together an eclectic blend of artists and collectives from across the globe. The event marked a significant cultural moment, showcasing UAE's creative plurality while reaffirming ARTUAE’s mission to foster art awareness and cultural dialogue in the region.

This landmark edition was not just an exhibition—it was a curtain raiser for a grander ART movement in the UAE, curated to build bridges between regional traditions and global artistic voices.

Featured Artists & Collaborations

The exhibition displayed a rich and vibrant tapestry of artworks across various styles, techniques, and mediums, featuring both established and emerging talents from the UAE and around the world:

Abdul Qader Al Rais (UAE) HH Sheikha Alyazia Bint Nahyan Al Nahyan (UAE) – in collaboration with Abu Dhabi Art Hub Mamani Mamani (Bolivia) Daniela Carletti (Italy) Ndue Pepa (Albania) Marwan Salamah (Palestine) Marco (USA) Eddie Sulca (Peru) Abdulrauf Khalfan (UAE) Ibrahim AlAwadhi (UAE) – presented by Artissima Gallery

From Myanmar, the Myanmar Ink Art Gallery introduced the audience to stunning works by Nyo Win Pe, Kin Aung Khant, Zay Zay Htet, Nan Da, and Ye Aung Myat.

Swiss Art Gate showcased celebrated international names like Guido Bottazzo (Italy) and Fiona Ali Bubble (Brazil), while Sylvain Tremblay (Canada), a globally awarded artist, captivated audiences with his powerful expression.

Spotlight on the Abu Dhabi Art Hub

The Oasi Terrace was dedicated to masterpieces created during a month-long residency at the Abu Dhabi Art Hub, revealing a truly international collection with a UAE heart. The exhibit embraced paintings, sculptures, and mixed media in various forms—some of which incorporated black light and immersive storytelling.

Highlights from this collection included works by:

Anna Plavinslaya (USA–Russia) Bassam Al Selawi (Jordan) Carol Cronin (Ireland) Colins Abinoro (Nigeria) F.man (Belgium) Karine Roche (France) Katsiaryna Sumarava (Belarus) Maysoon Masalha (Jordan) Michel Bizet (France) Nassim Majed (UAE) Rigo Peralta (USA–Dominican Republic) Roman Frances (Spain) Stipan Tadic (Croatia)

A special feature of the event was a VIP lounge presentation of six exclusive pieces from HH Sheikha Alyazia Bint Nahyan Al Nahyan’s series: “The End” and “Safe Trip.”

Inauguration & Dignitaries

ARTUAE 2014 was formally inaugurated by HH Sheikh Teyab Bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, while the special segment "Antiquities" was graced by HH Sheikh Khalifa bin Khaled Al Hamed. The platform continues to thrive under the visionary leadership of Sathar Al Karan and Zakaria Mohammed, Founder and Co-Founder of ARTUAE.

The guest list was nothing short of illustrious— royalty, diplomats, CEOs, art collectors, and connoisseurs joined in celebrating this creative extravaganza.

Looking Ahead

With the success of its 5th edition, ARTUAE is setting its sights even higher. The upcoming 6th Edition promises an even more immersive, surprising, and globally inclusive artistic experience—expanding the horizons of cultural engagement in the Middle East.

Stay tuned for what’s next in the ARTUAE journey—a regionally rooted, globally resonant art movement.

AYAAT – An Art Exhibition for Ramadan

Presented by ARTUAE & Global Art Foundation

Venue: Presidential Suite, Shangri-La, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

During the sacred month of Ramadan, AYAAT illuminated Dubai’s cultural scene with a serene and soulful exhibition of Arabesque calligraphy, curated by Sathar Al Karan, and organized by ARTUAE in collaboration with the Global Art Foundation.

The exhibition was graciously inaugurated by Mr. Majid Saqr Al Marri, CEO of Dubai Land Department (DLD), alongside Sheikha Al Mutawa, Executive Director of Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET), bringing together key figures from the art, culture, and governmental sectors.

Set in the prestigious Presidential Suite of Shangri-La Dubai, AYAAT offered an intimate and elevated viewing experience, showcasing sacred verses and abstract calligraphic compositions that celebrated the divine beauty of Arabic script. The exhibition served as a contemplative journey into the essence of Islamic aesthetics, spirituality, and heritage—timed perfectly to resonate with the reflective atmosphere of Ramadan.

AYAAT stands as a tribute to the enduring power of sacred art, bridging tradition with contemporary expression, and positioning Dubai once again as a global hub for meaningful cultural dialogue.

Arab Fashion Council, ARTUAE & Dubai Fashion TV Present the First-Ever Arab Fashion Week in Dubai

In Partnership with Huawei Arabia and Park Hyatt Dubai

The Arab Fashion Council (AFC), the largest non-profit fashion authority in the region, in collaboration with ARTUAE and Dubai Fashion TV, successfully launched the first edition of Arab Fashion Week (AFW) in Dubai—marking a historic milestone in the global fashion calendar.

Held from October 31st to November 2nd at the prestigious Park Hyatt Dubai, the three-day invitation-only event was proudly presented by title sponsor Huawei Arabia, and positioned Dubai at the forefront of the international fashion scene.

In association with the International Fashion Network, the event featured the exclusive Royal Arts installation titled "Royal Signature – Where Art Meets Fashion", a creative fusion of haute couture and fine art curated by ARTUAE Foundation.

Arab Fashion Week brought together an impressive lineup of renowned Arab and international designers, including:

Les Copains

Atelier Leonleon

Abed Mahfouz

Laura Mancini

Selphie Bong

Adelina Rusu

...among other elite names, all unveiling their Spring/Summer 2016 collections.

Speaking on the occasion, Cavaliere Mario Boselli, Honorary President of both AFC and the National Chamber of Italian Fashion, stated:

"I am extremely happy to contribute to establishing an Arabian Fashion System—a complete 'Fashion Pipeline'—supporting the industry's growth from textiles to finished garments. Dubai has become a central hub for fashion and design in the Middle East, and Arab Fashion Week marks a bold new chapter in its global influence."

The opening conference featured key figures of the Arab Fashion Council:

Jacob Abrian – Founder & CEO, Arab Fashion Council Dr. Mary Dell’Edera – Chief Brand Officer Sathar Al Karan – Founder, ARTUAE Dr. Raffaella Carnevale – Chief PR Officer Othaija Al Ameri – Chief Protocol Officer Sandeep Saihgal – Vice President, Huawei Arabia

The inaugural Arab Fashion Week not only established Dubai as a fashion capital in the Arab world but also celebrated the convergence of art, culture, innovation, and couture —ushering in a new era of creativity and elegance for the region.

ROYAL SIGNATURE ART MEETS FASHION BY ARTUAE - M&J - SATHAR AL KARAN

In Partnership with Huawei Arabia and Park Hyatt Dubai

The Arab Fashion Council (AFC), the largest non-profit fashion authority in the region, in collaboration with ARTUAE and Dubai Fashion TV, successfully launched the first edition of Arab Fashion Week (AFW) in Dubai—marking a historic milestone in the global fashion calendar.

Held from October 31st to November 2nd at the prestigious Park Hyatt Dubai, the three-day invitation-only event was proudly presented by title sponsor Huawei Arabia, and positioned Dubai at the forefront of the international fashion scene.

In association with the International Fashion Network, the event featured the exclusive Royal Arts installation titled "Royal Signature – Where Art Meets Fashion", a creative fusion of haute couture and fine art curated by ARTUAE Foundation.

Arab Fashion Week brought together an impressive lineup of renowned Arab and international designers, including:

Les Copains

Atelier Leonleon

Abed Mahfouz

Laura Mancini

Selphie Bong

Adelina Rusu

...among other elite names, all unveiling their Spring/Summer 2016 collections.

Speaking on the occasion, Cavaliere Mario Boselli, Honorary President of both AFC and the National Chamber of Italian Fashion, stated:

"I am extremely happy to contribute to establishing an Arabian Fashion System—a complete 'Fashion Pipeline'—supporting the industry's growth from textiles to finished garments. Dubai has become a central hub for fashion and design in the Middle East, and Arab Fashion Week marks a bold new chapter in its global influence."

The opening conference featured key figures of the Arab Fashion Council:

Jacob Abrian – Founder & CEO, Arab Fashion Council Dr. Mary Dell’Edera – Chief Brand Officer Sathar Al Karan – Founder, ARTUAE Dr. Raffaella Carnevale – Chief PR Officer Othaija Al Ameri – Chief Protocol Officer Sandeep Saihgal – Vice President, Huawei Arabia

The inaugural Arab Fashion Week not only established Dubai as a fashion capital in the Arab world but also celebrated the convergence of art, culture, innovation, and couture —ushering in a new era of creativity and elegance for the region.

ART UAE Celebrates 15th Anniversary with Milestone Exhibition and Exciting Calendar of Events

ART UAE, the esteemed Abu Dhabi-based art collective, marked its 15th anniversary on November 29 with a grand celebration at the Pupil of Fate gallery on Sheikh Zayed Road, in collaboration with the Global Art Foundation Group. The milestone event coincided with the 52nd UAE National Day and was themed ‘Success Dubai’, curated by prominent Emirati artist Abdul Rauf Khalfan.

The occasion was inaugurated by Sheikh Sanaa bin Hasher Al Maktoum alongside POP Group Chairman Alex Lee. Distinguished guests included HH Sheikh Omar bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Private Office CEO Amna Al Dahiri, who were honored with the first commissioned portraits. The event also welcomed celebrated Emirati wildlife photographer Su’aad Al Suwaidi—the first in the Arab world to excel in this field—as the chief guest. Other notable attendees were renowned fashion designer Hind Al Khoury, French Consul Pastel Roufy, Austrian Consul Bob Morrison, ART UAE Youth Founder Saaya Fatoum, and ART UAE Co-founder Zacharia Mohammed.

Continuing the year’s celebrations, a special exhibition is scheduled for December 15 at the prestigious Sheikh Zayed Gallery. This show will feature Jawahiri’s largest private collection of 19th-century French artworks, centered around the iconic theme ‘The Last Supper.’ The event will be officially opened by Her Highness Afra Al Maktoum, with the French Ambassador honored as the chief guest.

ART UAE founder Sathar Al Karan confirmed the robust program, emphasizing the group’s ongoing commitment to fostering artistic talent and cultural exchange within the UAE and beyond.

ART XIX Exhibition Presented by ARTUAE at Pupil Of Fate Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road

ARTUAE, in collaboration with Pupil Of Fate Motors and 19 Century Antiques, proudly organized the ART XIX exhibition held from January 5th to 31st at Pupil Of Fate Motors, Sheikh Zayed Road.

The exhibition was officially inaugurated by Sheikh Salem Humaid Al Qassimi alongside Jai Narayan Gupta, marking the beginning of a captivating showcase of contemporary and classic artworks.

The event was graced by the presence of esteemed dignitaries including HH Sheikh Omar Bin Zayed Al Nehayan, Private Office CEO Amna Al Dhahery, CIO Sanjai Nadkarni, Dubai Tourism Economic Executive Director Sheikha Al Mutawaa, and Dubai Land Department Head Fatma Al Shamsi.

ART XIX brought together an exceptional collection of artworks that celebrated creativity and cultural heritage, highlighting ARTUAE’s ongoing commitment to fostering artistic dialogue in the UAE’s vibrant art scene.

Raza Art Exhibition at Progressive Gallery Presented by Raza Foundation in Association with ARTUAE

The Raza Foundation, in collaboration with ARTUAE, proudly presents the Raza Art Exhibition at the prestigious Progressive Gallery. This exhibition celebrates the iconic legacy of S.H. Raza, one of India’s most influential modern artists, renowned for his vibrant use of color and profound exploration of spirituality and geometry.

The exhibition offers art enthusiasts a unique opportunity to experience a curated selection of Raza’s masterpieces that reflect his lifelong journey of artistic innovation and cultural expression.

Through this partnership, ARTUAE continues its dedication to promoting significant contemporary and modern art movements while fostering cross-cultural artistic exchange within the UAE and beyond.

Stay tuned for exclusive viewing dates and special events linked to this extraordinary showcase.