August 2025: World Art Dubai (WAD), the MENA region’s largest contemporary art fair, has been honoured with the title of Best Luxury Art Events & Fairs Organizer by the Luxury Lifestyle Awards 2025. Since its launch in 2015, the fair has become a key fixture in the UAE’s cultural calendar, connecting global creativity with opportunity.

Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre, the fair provides a platform where seasoned collectors, first-time buyers, and art enthusiasts discover new voices and invest in art. Each edition showcases hundreds of artists and galleries from around the world, complemented by live performances, workshops, and talks designed to spark dialogue and position art as both inspiration and investment.

The 11th edition took place from 17–20 April 2025 at Dubai World Trade Centre under the theme “Where the World’s Art Comes Together.” More than 10,000 artworks from over 65 countries were displayed, with highlights such as China’s Country of Honour pavilion. The Textile Hub invited visitors to explore hands-on techniques, linking craft with design innovation, while the WAD Public Art installations transformed urban spaces into accessible creative landmarks.

The fair closed with an awards ceremony across 16 categories, reinforcing WAD’s role in celebrating creativity and future talent. The Future Artist Award, supported by StuDIYo Lab, encouraged pupils to imagine the world 50 years ahead, blending education with artistic vision. The Artist in Residence Awards placed two international artists at Rove Hotels and Radisson Red Dubai Silicon Oasis, fostering cultural exchange through Dubai-inspired works. The inaugural ANAX Art Award, introduced by ANAX Developments, honoured excellence in Emirati art, underlining the role of creativity in shaping cultural identity. Hend Rashed, the first recipient, will create a bespoke work for an ANAX property, bridging art with luxury design.

Beyond awards, WAD continues to champion mentorship and empowerment. Programmes pair emerging artists with established figures, ensuring the next generation receives guidance, visibility, and opportunities to build sustainable careers. Competitions and youth activations align with the UAE’s vision of nurturing creative talent and inspiring future leaders.

Looking ahead, World Art Dubai 2026 will focus on driving sales, stronger curation, and deeper buyer engagement. New initiatives include an expanded Hosted Buyer Programme, a matchmaking platform for artists and collectors, and curated zones dedicated to sculpture, photography, digital art, textiles, and design. Together, these elements reinforce WAD’s purpose: to connect cultures, empower talent, and establish Dubai as a global hub for accessible, diverse art.

Alexander Chetchikov, CEO of Luxury Lifestyle Awards and President of the World Luxury Chamber of Commerce, congratulated the team, stating, “World Art Dubai is more than an art fair; it is a cultural bridge that connects communities, inspires creativity, and opens doors for artists worldwide. Their influence on the global art scene is truly extraordinary, and we are proud to recognize their contribution to the arts.”

For more information, visit the awarded company website: www.worldartdubai.com.