{"id":64879,"date":"2025-11-10T18:30:41","date_gmt":"2025-11-10T14:30:41","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/?post_type=tribe_events&p=64879"},"modified":"2025-11-19T15:03:17","modified_gmt":"2025-11-19T11:03:17","slug":"manar-abu-dhabi-2025","status":"publish","type":"tribe_events","link":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/event\/manar-abu-dhabi-2025\/","title":{"rendered":"Manar Abu Dhabi 2025"},"content":{"rendered":"

Manar Abu Dhabi returns for its second edition with the theme The Light Compass, presenting 19 newly commissioned light-based artworks by Emirati and international artists \u2013 including some very big names:<\/p>\n

Abdulla Almulla<\/strong> (UAE)
\nAmmar Al Attar <\/strong>(UAE)
\nChristian Brinkmann <\/strong>(Germany)
\nDRIFT <\/strong>(Netherlands)
\nEncor Studio <\/strong>(Switzerland)
\nEzequiel Pini <\/strong>(Argentina)
\nIregular <\/strong>(Canada)
\nKAWS <\/strong>(USA)
\nKhalid Shafar<\/strong> (UAE)
\nKirsten Berg<\/strong> (USA)
\nLachlan Turczan <\/strong>(USA)
\nMaitha Hamdan <\/strong>(UAE)
\nPamela Poh <\/strong>(Malaysia)
\nRafael Lozano-Hemmer<\/strong> (Mexico)
\nShaikha Al Mazrou<\/strong> (UAE)<\/p>\n

The locations include Jubail Island<\/strong> and Souq Al Mina i<\/strong>n Abu Dhabi (gone is the experiment of scattering installations around the city: they are all concentrated in those two locations) and, for the first time,\u00a0Al Qattara <\/strong>and Al Jimi <\/strong>Oases in Al Ain. Jubail Island, Al Qattara Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis will all have F&B pop-ups and “experiences”. The website<\/a> has a map indicating locations; there are guided buggy tours of the artworks on Jubail Island at AED 50 per person or AED 150 for a group of four, with tours at 6pm, 8pm and 10pm. There\u2019s also an Al Ain tour through the Al Qattara and Al Jimi Oases at 7pm; prices are the same. Tours run daily until 4 January.<\/p>\n

Manar Abu Dhabi isn’t just the roster of light installations \u2013 check the website<\/a> for details and see our summary below, but there’s a programme of artist led workshops<\/strong>; talks<\/strong> that explore the intersections of art, technology, and public space; performances<\/strong> including the Syrian-Lebanese duo Bedouin Burger, Korean electronic duo Haepaary, Napoli percussion trio Ars Nova Napoli, and Tarek Yamani Trio; and set of partner programmes<\/strong> exploring “climate, wellness, and connection”. We’ve listed the principal elements below<\/p>\n

The main location for talks and workshops is the Manar Abu Dhabi hub on Jubail Island, with one talk at Manarat al Saadiyat (with Abu Dhabi Art). . Performances are at Souq Al Mina; all are free. Workshops are on Jubail, and several of them are paid-for.<\/p>\n

Co-curated by Alia Zaal Lootah, Munira Al Sayegh <\/strong>and Mariam Alshehhi<\/strong> with Khai Hori<\/strong> as Artistic Director,\u00a0 the project forms part of Public Art Abu Dhabi, a DCT Abu Dhabi initiative that champions art in public spaces and sustained engagement with the city\u2019s environment.<\/p>\n

Manar Abu Dhabi runs to 4 January.<\/p>\n

Right: Maitha Hamdan, Breath of the Same Place (2025: installation in Al Ain)<\/em><\/p>\n

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TALKS<\/mark><\/strong>
\nUnless noted these are all at Manar Abu Dhabi Stage, Jubail Island; free and no pre-registration required<\/em><\/p>\n

16 Nov<\/strong> 6pm LETS TALK ABOUT MANAR ABU DHABI 2025<\/strong><\/span>
\nSpeakers: Khai Hori, Alia Lootah, Mariam Al Shehhi, Munira Al Sayegh
\nMeet the curators \u2026<\/p>\n

16 Nov<\/strong> 7pm THE FUTURE OF ART WITHOUT AI: IS IT POSSIBLE?<\/span><\/strong>
\nSpeakers: Dr Elizabeth Churchill, Khai Hori, Dr Giulia Bini
\nThe evolving relationship between art and AI.<\/p>\n

17 Nov<\/strong> 6pm ART, TECH, AND HUMAN CONNECTION<\/strong><\/span>
\nSpeakers: Ralph Nauta (DRIFT), Prof. Hao Li, Stephanie Rosenthal
\nHow immersive experiences, AI, and creative technologies are reshaping the ways we see, feel, and connect with the world.<\/p>\n

19 Nov<\/strong> 6pm ART AT THE INTERSECTION OF NATURE AND TECHNOLOGY<\/strong><\/span>
\nSpeakers: Ulrich Schrauth, Christian Brinkmann, Dr Brigitte Howarth
\nHow artists and institutions are reimagining the relationship between the natural world, innovation, and public engagement.<\/p>\n

19 Nov<\/strong> 7pm LIGHT, MOTION, AND PERCEPTION<\/strong><\/span>
\nSpeakers: Lachlan Turczan, Ezequiel Pini, Munira Al Sayegh
\nHow physical and digital worlds can converge to reshape perception and inspire a sense of wonder in public spaces.<\/p>\n

20 Nov<\/strong> 2pm REIMAGINING SPACE THROUGH SCULPTURE<\/strong><\/span>
\nSpeakers: Shaikha Al Mazrou, Kirsten Berg, Sara Bin Safwan
\nBerg, known for large-scale reflective installations, creates immersive forms that fuse geometry and environmental sensitivity; Al Mazrou, one of the UAE\u2019s leading contemporary artists, takes a distinct approach through minimal forms and conceptual rigour, reflecting both personal narrative and wider sociocultural contexts. Registration required here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

20 Nov<\/strong> 3pm DESIGNING PUBLIC ART FOR PRESENCE AND SPACE<\/strong><\/span>
\nSpeakers: Abdalla Almulla, Pamela Tan, Alia Zaal Lootah
\nHow does public art respond to its site, and shape how people feel within it? Abdalla Almulla and Pamela Tan discuss how public artworks can transform passive environments into active, contemplative spaces. Location: Abu Dhabi Art, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Island. Registration required here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

PERFORMANCES<\/mark><\/strong>
\nUnless noted these are all at Manar Abu Dhabi\u2019s Souq Al Mina location; free and no pre-registration required. Additional performances will be announced \u201cin due course\u201d.<\/em><\/p>\n

21 Nov<\/strong> 8.15pm FOURMANOS<\/strong><\/span>
\nAn Emirati band made up of six friends whose performances blend Latin and mariachi-style music with flamenco, traditional Khaleeji rhythms, and modern influences.<\/p>\n

22 Nov<\/strong> 8.15pm BEDOUIN BURGER<\/strong><\/span>
\nFormed by Syrian vocalist Lynn Adib and Lebanese producer Zeid Hamdan, Bedouin Burger harmonises classical and Arabic folk music with modern compositions, blending jazz and minimalist electronica.<\/p>\n

23 Nov<\/strong> 8.15pm TAREK YAMANI TRIO: AFRO-TARAB JAZZ CONCEPTIONS<\/strong><\/span>
\nTarek Yamani\u2019s Afro-Tarab jazz journeys from early 1900s Egypt to contemporary New York, including reinterpretations of classical Arabic muwashahat, as well as original compositions based on edgy traditional Arabic rhythms and melodic modes.<\/p>\n

29 Nov<\/strong> 8.15pm HAEPAARY<\/strong><\/span>
\nSouth Korean duo who merge traditional Korean music with experimental electronic soundscapes.<\/p>\n

10 Dec<\/strong> 8.15pm LOVE AND REVENGE: TRIBUTE TO OUM KALTHOUM\u200b<\/strong><\/span>
\nAgmal Layali reimagines the legendary repertoire of Oum Kalthoum through a contemporary lens, blending her iconic recordings with live performance and cinematic visuals.<\/p>\n

13 Dec<\/strong> 8.15pm ARS NOVA NAPOLI<\/strong><\/span>
\nArs Nova Napoli revives the spirit of southern Italian tradition through dynamic live performances of Neapolitan Nu Folk, a fusion of Mediterranean rhythms and modern arrangements .<\/p>\n

19 Dec <\/strong>8.15pm AMJAD SHAKIR<\/strong><\/span>
\nAmjad Shakir is a contemporary Sudanese singer known for his soulful voice and vibrant stage presence. His performances offer a rich musical journey across cultures.<\/p>\n

26 Dec<\/strong> 8.15pm SHILPA ANANTH & BEATBOX RAY<\/strong><\/span>
\nUAE born and based, the duo\u2019s genre-blending live set fuses soulful melodies, intricate vocal loops, and masterful beatboxing in an electrifying mix of South Indian influences, jazz, electronic soul, and percussive vocal artistry.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

WORKSHOPS<\/mark><\/strong>
\nAll workshops take place at Manar Abu Dhabi, Jubail Island, most require registration, and some are charged-for.<\/em><\/p>\n

22 Nov<\/strong> 5.30pm-midnight THE SLIME LAB: NEON SLIME DROP-IN WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nKids make their very own slime using safe, non-toxic materials with glow-in-the-dark pigments that come alive under UV or blacklight. AED 35 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

22 Nov<\/strong> 9pm GRACIA FARMS PAINT AND PLANT<\/strong><\/span>
\nIn this interactive workshop, children will decorate and personalise their own plant pots before planting a small seedling inside. AED 50 per person; register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

23 Nov<\/strong> 9pm GRACIA FARMS PAINT AND PLANT<\/strong><\/span>
\nIn this interactive workshop, children will decorate and personalise their own plant pots before planting a small seedling inside. AED 50 per person; register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

23 Nov<\/strong> 6pm THE KNOT: TALLI MEDAL CHARMS WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nWorkshop for youth and adults: create personalised Talli-inspired medal charms using a selection of accessories and LED balloon lights. AED 80 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

24 Nov<\/strong> 6pm THE KNOT: TALLI MEDAL CHARMS WORKSHOP<\/span><\/strong>
\nWorkshop for youth and adults: create personalised Talli-inspired medal charms using a selection of accessories and LED balloon lights. AED 80 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

25 Nov<\/strong> 6pm THE KNOT: TALLI MEDAL CHARMS WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nWorkshop for youth and adults: create personalised Talli-inspired medal charms using a selection of accessories and LED balloon lights. AED 80 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

29 Nov<\/strong> 4.30pm MOTIONS OF MANAR WITH JARED MARTINEZ<\/strong><\/span>
\nA Fujifilm workshop focused on cinematic video storytelling, led by visual artist Jared Martinez, exploring the art of motion, light, and storytelling. Register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

29 Nov<\/strong> 5.30pm-midnight THE SLIME LAB: NEON SLIME DROP-IN WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nKids make their very own slime using safe, non-toxic materials with glow-in-the-dark pigments that come alive under UV or blacklight. AED 35 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

29 Nov<\/strong> 9pm GRACIA FARMS PUPPET MAKING WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nA hands on puppet-making working for children, is a fun and creative way to express emotions, build confidence, and communicate ideas. AED 75 per person; register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

6 Dec<\/strong> 5.30pm FUTURE OF MANAR WITH MARK ANTHONY AGTAY<\/strong><\/span>
\nDesigned for young creatives, this Fujifilm workshop for young people introduces the fundamentals of photography. It encourages participants to see the world through a creative lens, frame their perspectives, tell visual stories, and explore their surroundings with curiosity and imagination. Register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

6 Dec<\/strong> 5.30pm-midnight THE SLIME LAB: NEON SLIME DROP-IN WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nKids make their very own slime using safe, non-toxic materials with glow-in-the-dark pigments that come alive under UV or blacklight. AED 35 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

6 Dec<\/strong> 9pm GRACIA FARMS PAINT AND PLANT<\/strong><\/span>
\nIn this interactive workshop, children will decorate and personalise their own plant pots before planting a small seedling inside. AED 50 per person; register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

13 Dec<\/strong> 4.30pm VISUALS OF MANAR WITH PREET UDAY<\/strong><\/span>
\nA Fujifilm workshop that encourages participants to interpret Abu Dhabi through their own artistic lens and develop a strong visual narrative. Register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

13 Dec<\/strong> 5.30pm-midnight THE SLIME LAB: NEON SLIME DROP-IN WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nKids make their very own slime using safe, non-toxic materials with glow-in-the-dark pigments that come alive under UV or blacklight. AED 35 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

13 Dec<\/strong> 6pm GRACIA FARMS PUPPET MAKING WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nA hands on puppet-making working for children, is a fun and creative way to express emotions, build confidence, and communicate ideas. AED 75 per person; register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

14 Dec<\/strong> 6pm REFLECTIONS OF LIGHT: ARTIST-LED WORKSHOP WITH MAITHA HAMDAN<\/strong><\/span>
\nHow does light make you feel? What memories do trees and nature bring to you? Art-making with Manar artist Maitha Hamdan. Registration will open soon<\/p>\n

20 Dec<\/strong> 4.30pm FACADES OF MANAR WITH HUSSEIN AL MOOSAWI<\/strong><\/span>
\nA Fujifilm workshop exploring Abu Dhabi\u2019s architectural identity through the lens of fine art photography. This session focuses on capturing form, structure, and light. Register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

20 Dec<\/strong> 5.30pm-midnight THE SLIME LAB: NEON SLIME DROP-IN WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nKids make their very own slime using safe, non-toxic materials with glow-in-the-dark pigments that come alive under UV or blacklight. AED 35 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

20 Dec<\/strong> 9pm GRACIA FARMS PAINT AND PLANT<\/strong><\/span>
\nIn this interactive workshop, children will decorate and personalise their own plant pots before planting a small seedling inside. AED 50 per person; register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

27 Dec<\/strong> 5.30pm-midnight THE SLIME LAB: NEON SLIME DROP-IN WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nKids make their very own slime using safe, non-toxic materials with glow-in-the-dark pigments that come alive under UV or blacklight. AED 35 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

27 Dec<\/strong> 9pm GRACIA FARMS PUPPET MAKING WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nA hands on puppet-making working for children, is a fun and creative way to express emotions, build confidence, and communicate ideas. AED 75 per person; register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

3 Jan<\/strong> 5.30pm-midnight THE SLIME LAB: NEON SLIME DROP-IN WORKSHOP<\/strong><\/span>
\nKids make their very own slime using safe, non-toxic materials with glow-in-the-dark pigments that come alive under UV or blacklight. AED 35 per person; no registration required.<\/p>\n

3 Jan<\/strong> 9pm GRACIA FARMS PAINT AND PLANT<\/strong><\/span>
\nIn this interactive workshop, children will decorate and personalise their own plant pots before planting a small seedling inside. AED 50 per person; register here<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n

\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Manar Abu Dhabi returns for its second edition with the theme The Light Compass, presenting 19 newly commissioned light-based artworks by Emirati and international artists \u2013 including some very big names: Abdulla Almulla (UAE) Ammar Al Attar (UAE) Christian Brinkmann [… more]<\/a><\/div>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"template":"","meta":{"_tribe_events_status":"","_tribe_events_status_reason":"","footnotes":""},"tags":[],"tribe_events_cat":[50,210,51],"class_list":["post-64879","tribe_events","type-tribe_events","status-publish","tribe_events_cat-art","tribe_events_cat-light","tribe_events_cat-performance","cat_art","cat_light","cat_performance"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tribe_events\/64879","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tribe_events"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/tribe_events"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tribe_events\/64879\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=64879"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=64879"},{"taxonomy":"tribe_events_cat","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/magpie.ae\/staging4\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tribe_events_cat?post=64879"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}

22 Nov<\/strong> 4.30pm SERENITY OF MANAR WITH ALTAMASH JAVED<\/strong><\/span>
\nA fine art photography workshop with Fujifilm Creator Javed. Majoring on the art of stillness through light and composition. Register here<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n