Everything to Know About Manar Abu Dhabi 2025

The Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 exhibition, organised by Public Art Abu Dhabi under the umbrella of Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), returns as a major public art initiative showcasing outdoor light art, immersive installations, projections and site-specific works across the emirate. 

This year’s theme, “The Light Compass”, positions light as both a guiding force and expressive medium bridging nature, technology and cultural heritage. 

Dates & Locations

• In Al Ain, from 1 November 2025 to 4 January 2026, at the Al Qattara Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis. 

• In Abu Dhabi proper: from 15 November 2025 to 4 January 2026 at Jubail Island and Souq Al Mina (also called Mina Zayed waterfront) and other linked sites. 
  These dispersed locations mean the exhibition spans both the urban coastline and inland oases, offering visitors multiple landscapes in which to experience art and light.

Art-Installation Highlights

The 2025 edition features over 23 newly-commissioned works by Emirati and international artists, including large-scale outdoor sculptures, immersive installation pieces, projections and interactive art that respond to both natural and technological elements. 
Key examples include:

• EDEN by Malaysian artist Pamela Poh — a large-scale outdoor installation on Jubail Island.

• Unfold and Whispers by studio DRIFT — immersive works that respond to movement and biometrics. 

• In Al Ain’s oasis locations: Pulse Canopy and Sadu Red Carpet by artist Khalid Shafar, and others, such as Cycle of Circles by Emirati artist Ammar Al Attar. These installations are designed to reflect the natural topography — water systems, oases, mangroves — and connect visitors with the environment and art in one experience.

Talks, Performances & Experiences

The programme extends beyond static artworks. Selected sites will host talks and discussions themed around art, landscape, technology and public space, for instance, a talk titled “Art at the Intersection of Nature and Technology” is scheduled for 19 November 2025 on the Manar Stage at Jubail Island.  Meanwhile, performances and immersive light experiences are woven into the installations to engage audiences directly. Visitors will also find art trails and walks through the oases in Al Ain and along coastal zones, enabling a contemplative journey through space, light and culture.

Why This Edition Stands Out

Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 expands both in geographical scope and artistic ambition. With the inclusion of Al Ain’s oasis landscapes for the first time, the exhibition shifts from purely scenic/coastal settings into heritage-rich inland sites — connecting contemporary art with historic cultural landscapes.

The theme of “The Light Compass” ties together navigation, memory, environment and innovation, giving the event conceptual depth beyond a visual spectacle. It also emphasises accessibility and public engagement, making art reachable across different terrains and communities.

Practical Visitor Tips

• Check which location you’re attending (Al Ain vs Abu Dhabi) and plan for transport accordingly — some sites may be more remote (oases) while others are near urban infrastructure.

• Visit at dusk and into the evening for the best effect: many light installations are designed to shine in low-light or after sunset conditions.

• Book tickets in advance (when available) and monitor official channels for updates on passes, timed entry, and special events.

• Wear comfortable shoes and consider outdoor conditions: depending on the venue, you might walk through nature trails, sandy or uneven terrain.

• Combine your visit with nearby cultural or heritage sites — especially in Al Ain — to make the most of your trip.

With its blend of art, nature, technology and public engagement, Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 promises to be an unmissable cultural event in the UAE calendar. Whether you're a resident, a visitor to the emirate or a public art enthusiast, this edition offers multiple ways to explore light, landscape and creativity in tandem.