Where the world’s art comes together World Art Dubai will return this March, embracing the latest trends in the art world

The region’s largest contemporary retail art fair, World Art Dubai (WAD), is set for its biggest art-filled event to date when it returns for its ninth edition at Dubai World Trade Centre from Thursday 9 to Sunday 12 March 2023.

For this year’s edition, WAD is delighted to announce that in line with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority’s Public Art Strategy that seeks to transform Dubai into an open, accessible and global art gallery, Urban Art DXB returns for 2023 with live music, fashion creations and dance performances led by talented creative, Ahmad Al Rashid. The exhibit will feature a dedicated area with live street art activations that will include live street art, freestyle dances, urban fashion and more.

Making its debut for this year’s edition, WAD will launch its Matchmaking Programme, which is designed to connect rising artists with established galleries. With the UAE becoming a strong art market, there is increased demand from collectors, giving local artists the opportunity to have their work seen not just locally but internationally. The programme aims to support new talent by shining a light on their skills and creating a forum where they can meet the major players of the UAE art scene.

In addition, WAD will also embrace the continuous upward trend of NFTs showcasing the latest in digital art. As the UAE becomes home to one of the strongest and biggest NFT communities in the world, there has been a surge of buying, selling and creating NFTs over the past 12 months, NFT exhibitors at WAD will have their chance to showcase their work to thousands of visitors.

Asma Al Sharif, Assistant Vice President at Exhibitions, Dubai World Trade Centre, said: “Not only are we delighted to return for our ninth year with over 300 exhibitors, but we are also passionate about keeping up with the latest trends across the industry, showcasing the latest insights and experiences for our visitors. We are thrilled to partner with the Embassy of South Korea to celebrate the rich culture of South Korea and offer a gateway to the country’s rich culture and traditions throughout the exhibition, in addition to WAD’s Urban Art experience, Matchmaking Programme and supporting the continuous demand for NFTs.”

Renowned for uniting more than 300 local and international exhibitors from more than 60 countries, the four-day art fair will showcase diverse, accessible and original art all under one roof, from emerging artists to established talent. As well as being able to browse more than 4,000 artworks, art lovers and creatives of all ages will have the chance to immerse themselves in a non-stop schedule of experiential art activations and engaging live art performances, as well as curated art talks and workshops, making WAD 2023 a truly unmissable highlight in the Dubai arts season calendar.