The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Frieze announced their partnership to evolve Abu Dhabi Art into Frieze Abu Dhabi, set to take place in November 2026. The inaugural edition will take place at Manarat Al Saadiyat.
Under Frieze’s new ownership, Frieze Abu Dhabi will continue to build on the 17-year legacy of Abu Dhabi Art. Simon Fox, CEO of Frieze, shared his thoughts on the development: “We are honoured to work alongside DCT Abu Dhabi on the launch of Frieze Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi’s cultural leadership, underpinned by its world-class museums, institutions, and commitment to the arts, provides the foundation for this collaboration. Combined with the reach of Frieze’s global platform, we can amplify the emirate’s achievements while opening new possibilities for discovery, championing artistic practices from the region, and shaping the fair as a space for conversation and exchange.”
His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, expressed: “For nearly two decades, Abu Dhabi Art has reflected our vision of culture as a driver of dialogue, connection, and creativity, supported by a vibrant ecosystem of museums, residencies, and institutions that nurture both established and emerging artists. The launch of Frieze Abu Dhabi is a natural evolution of that journey. It is rooted in the achievements of Abu Dhabi Art and will carry them onto the global stage, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a cultural capital while offering Frieze a unique gateway to the region. Together, we are creating a fair that is not only international in reach but also deeply connected to the values and strengths of Abu Dhabi.”
