Manar Abu Dhabi 2026: Illuminating Heritage and Innovation Through Public Light Art
The second edition of Manar Abu Dhabi, a highly acclaimed public light art exhibition orchestrated by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and forming a centerpiece of the wider Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, wrapped up on 4th January 2026. The exhibition, which began in November 2025, captivated the imagination of both residents and visitors, drawing more than 800,000 people to experience Abu Dhabi’s archipelagos, mangroves, oases, and urban settings in a transformative new light.
This year’s exhibition highlighted works by 15 Emirati and international artists and collectives representing 10 countries, who presented a remarkable slate of 22 site-specific light sculptures, projections, and immersive installations. These creations not only redefined perceptions of Abu Dhabi’s landscapes but also fostered a spirit of communal exploration and appreciation.
A significant feature of the 2026 edition was its expansion into Al Ain’s celebrated cultural sites, including locations inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List. This milestone enriched the conversation between contemporary artistic expression and the emirate’s historic legacy, cementing Manar Abu Dhabi’s position as a dynamic platform for cross-generational and cross-cultural dialogue.
The curatorial team for this edition included Khai Hori (Artistic Director), Alia Zaal Lootah (Curator), Munira Al Sayegh (Curator), and Mariam Alshehhi (Assistant Curator), who guided the exhibition under the evocative theme ‘The Light Compass’. Drawing inspiration from the Gulf’s ancestral relationship with light, the exhibition explored light’s dual role as both guide and medium. Through this curatorial vision, Manar Abu Dhabi emphasized the power of public art to illuminate physical spaces as well as the collective spirit that ties communities to the emirate’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Among the notable artists whose works contributed to the vibrant narrative were Abdulla Al Mulla, Ammar Al Attar, Christian Brinkmann, DRIFT, Encor Studio, Ezequiel Pini (a.k.a. Six N. Five), Iregular, KAWS, Khalid Shafar, Kirsten Berg, Lachlan Turczan, Maitha Hamdan, Pamela Tan, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer, and Shaikha Al Mazrou. Their innovative installations were thoughtfully distributed across prominent locations, including Jubail Island (the anchor site), Souq Al Mina, Al Qattara Oasis, and the Al Jimi Oasis. The artworks probed themes of history, wayfinding, and guidance through light, reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a vibrant cultural capital.
Supporting the main event, Manar Abu Dhabi delivered a far-reaching public programme that brought together art, technology, wellness, and community engagement. Highlights of the programme included thought-provoking talks addressing the relationship between art, technology, and public spaces; mesmerizing performances from renowned international and regional acts such as singer EMEL; hands-on creative and educational workshops; specialized climate and wellness activities; and an exclusive immersive dining experience, WE ARE ONA X Manar Abu Dhabi—the first appearance of WE ARE ONA in the Middle East.
Manar Abu Dhabi stands as a testament to DCT Abu Dhabi’s continuing dedication to amplifying the emirate’s urban fabric through pioneering public art. As part of the broader Public Art Abu Dhabi initiative, the exhibition and its accompanying projects, including the Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial, serve to honor the emirate’s storied heritage while embracing innovative contemporary creativity.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
