Bana Kattan has been announced as the curator of the National Pavilion of the UAE for the upcoming Venice Biennale Arte 2026, which is set to run from 9 May to 22 November 2026.
Kattan, who is the current curator and associate head of exhibitions at the Guggenheim in Abu Dhabi, was selected for the role by a committee comprised of key figures in the UAE’s creative scene, which includes professional from museums, universities and from the government.
Prior to her current role at the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Kattan was associate curator at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago and curator at the NYU Abu Dhabi Art Gallery, where she led the curation of a number of exhibitions highlighting both regional artists as well as Emirati talent. Kattan’s curation focuses on creating conversations that bridge gaps across artistic media, disciplines and generations, around historical and socio-political topics. In addition to actively contributing to the shaping of the current contemporary art scene in the UAE, Kattan was born and raised in the emirates, allowing for a further understanding of the culture and dynamics of the country.
His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qassimi, UAE Minister of Culture, said: “The Ministry of Culture is committed to amplifying the UAE’s cultural and creative voices on the global stage. We are pleased to welcome Bana Kattan as curator of the National Pavilion UAE at the Biennale Arte 2026. With her curatorial expertise and deep connection to the UAE, she will bring forward perspectives that resonate both locally and internationally. Through this exhibition, the Pavilion continues to affirm the UAE’s role as a center for creativity and cultural dialogue.”
