Frieze Abu Dhabi Reveals Curated Programme for Inaugural Edition
The inaugural fair will connect artists across generations and geographies, with a major new commission by Dala Nasser, an experimental UAE-focused dialogue, Frieze Sculpture Abu Dhabi and a three-day talks programme.
ABU DHABI — The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Frieze have unveiled the programme for the inaugural edition of Frieze Abu Dhabi, taking place 19–22 November 2026 at Manarat Al Saadiyat.
Rooted in the artistic histories and contemporary practices of the region, the fair will bring together artists from different generations and geographies. More than 80 galleries from 36 countries and regions will participate, reflecting Abu Dhabi’s growing role within the international art world.
Dala Nasser: A New Commission
At the centre of the fair, Dala Nasser will transform the Atrium with a major new commission for the inaugural Frieze Abu Dhabi Artist Award, curated by Nabila Abdel Nabi.
The commission will serve as a central artistic moment within the first edition, connecting an international platform with the artistic context of the region.
In Dialogue: UAE Artists in Conversation
In Dialogue, curated by Dirwaza Curatorial Lab, will create an experimental pairing between established and emerging artists from the UAE.
The programme will bring the work of Mohammed Kazem and Alia Zaal into direct conversation, highlighting different artistic perspectives within the UAE.
The initiative reflects Frieze Abu Dhabi’s emphasis on connections across generations and the region’s evolving artistic practices.
Frieze Sculpture Abu Dhabi
The fair will extend beyond Manarat Al Saadiyat with Frieze Sculpture Abu Dhabi presented by Aldar.
Beginning 16 November, large-scale works will be presented at Mamsha Beach on Saadiyat Island, bringing contemporary sculpture into a public setting and expanding the reach of the fair across the island.
Conversations Across the Art World
A three-day talks programme will bring together artists, gallerists, art-world leaders and collectors, complementing the exhibitions and commissions with conversations around contemporary practice and the wider international art ecosystem.
Together, the talks, sculpture programme and curated presentations create a broader framework around the inaugural fair.
A New Chapter for Abu Dhabi
Frieze Abu Dhabi arrives within a cultural landscape shaped by Abu Dhabi’s longstanding commitment to art and culture.
The inaugural edition brings that regional context into dialogue with an international network of galleries and artists, moving between established practices, emerging voices and new commissions.
Dyala Nusseibeh, Director of Frieze Abu Dhabi, said the programme responds to Abu Dhabi’s “rich and evolving cultural landscape,” spanning generations and geographies while reflecting the artistic histories and practices connecting the city to a wider international scene.
From Dala Nasser’s new commission to In Dialogue and Frieze Sculpture Abu Dhabi, the programme places artists and their ideas at the centre of the fair.
With more than 80 galleries participating and programming extending from Manarat Al Saadiyat to Mamsha Beach, Frieze Abu Dhabi’s inaugural edition will bring the international art world together in Abu Dhabi from 19–22 November 2026.
