April 2025 brings a thrilling array of art events across the Gulf region, showcasing an eclectic mix of contemporary, modern, and traditional works. From grand biennials to solo showcases, these exhibits provide a deep dive into the dynamic and evolving art scene. Here are our top 10 must-visit exhibitions this month.
1. Silk and velvet vs warning safety signs
This solo exhibition by Uzbek artist Dilyara Kaipova delves into the complexities of globalization, identity, and socio-political issues. Using fabric as her primary medium, Kaipova’s work challenges contemporary realities, particularly the role of war and security in shaping the future. The exhibition is taking place at Andakulova Gallery until 8 April 2025.
2. The Unseen Presence at Firetti Contemporary
Inspired by Syrian poet Nizar Qabbani’s Balqis, The Unseen Presence examines the hidden forces shaping history and identity. This collective exhibition, on display at Firetti Contemporary until 12 April 2025, features works by nine artists who explore themes of exile, migration, war, and resilience, reflecting on the irreversible shifts caused by displacement.
3. A Shroud is a Cloth by Adrian Pepe
On view at NIKA Project Space until 17 May 2025, A Shroud is a Cloth is a solo exhibition by Honduran fibre artist Adrian Pepe. The show explores themes of memory, healing, and the interplay between destruction and renewal. At its core is a 200 sqm woollen textile that was once part of a damaged heritage site in Beirut, symbolising the intricate process of repair and the traces left by history.
4. Hayy Jameel: We saw an endless cycle
Hayy Jameel is holding We saw an endless cycle, an exhibition that brings together 17 local and international creatives from 12 countries. The show investigates how artists document and interpret the city through intimate gestures, featuring contemporary artworks, archival materials, and new commissions, and will end on 17 April 2025.
5. Silence & Noise by Niga Sayyed and Ali Zolghadri
Meanwhile, XVA Gallery is hosting Silence & Noise, a thought-provoking dialogue between Pakistani artist Niga Sayyed and Iranian photographer Ali Zolghadri. The exhibition contrasts minimalism and maximalism, with Sayyed merging modern photography and Zolghadri blending traditional printmaking with contemporary mixed media. The show will welcome all visitors until 17 April 2025.
6. Art Dubai 2025
One of the most significant art events in the Middle East, Art Dubai returns to Madinat Jumeirah from April 18 to April 20. The 18th edition features 100+ leading galleries from more than 40 countries, with cutting-edge art pieces presented across the Contemporary, Modern, Bawwaba, and newly expanded Digital sections. Notably, over 20 galleries are making their debut at Art Dubai this year, offering a fresh perspective on works from the Gulf, Africa, and South Asia. In addition to the exhibitions, the event hosts a dynamic programme of talks, workshops, panel discussions, and educational initiatives.
7. World Art Dubai 2025
Celebrating its 10th edition, World Art Dubai continues to be a diverse and inclusive platform in the city’s art scene. Running from April 17 to April 20 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, this vibrant art fair presents over 4,000 pieces from emerging and established artists across themed exhibition areas. Attendees can also engage in creative workshops, curated art talks, and live performances, making it an interactive and enriching experience.
8. Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection
L’ÉCOLE Middle East, the School of Jewelry Arts in Dubai, presents Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection, a remarkable display of over 700 exceptional rings from Yves Gastou, the late French collector and antique art dealer. On view until 26 April 2025, the exhibition offers a glimpse into a four-decade-long passion for craftsmanship and artistry.
9. Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial
Part of the Public Art Abu Dhabi Initiative, the first Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial runs through 30 April 2025. Transforming Abu Dhabi and Al Ain into open-air galleries, the biennial explores the concept of “public” through works by over 70 local and international artists: Farah Al Qasimi, Eko Nugroho, Nathan Coley, Wael Al Awar, and many others. Their installations invite one to reimagine familiar landscapes and discover new ones through a creative lens.
10. Sharjah Biennial 16 (SB16)
The 16th edition of the Sharjah Biennial, titled “to carry”, will be open to the public until 15 June 2025. With a focus on themes of physical, emotional, and historical burdens, the biennial examines how cultural heritage shapes personal and collective experiences. Spanning 17 venues across Sharjah, SB16 features over 650 works by nearly 200 participants, with more than 200 new commissions, highlighting narratives across diverse cultures and histories.
Additionally, you might be interested in visiting The Season of Ruin’s Remembrance by Amirhossein Bayani.
