Published on
January 17, 2026
By: Paramita Sarkar
The Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Art Festival 2026 is here, marking its 14th edition with a spectacular celebration of creativity and culture at the iconic Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. Running from January 16 to February 8, 2026, this landmark cultural event transforms the UAE’s last remaining intact pearling village into an open-air gallery. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore the rich history of the region while experiencing contemporary global art through the theme “Civilizations – A Journey Through Time and Culture.”
The festival is a unique fusion of traditional heritage and modern artistic expression, showcasing both local and international talent. This year’s theme explores human creativity across millennia, drawing inspiration from Ras Al Khaimah’s historical significance along the ancient Silk Road trade routes. The event examines how modern metropolises shape identity today, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in the evolution of civilizations through the lens of art.
Who is Behind the Festival?
The Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival is organized by the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, a leading institution in fostering cultural dialogue and creative expression in the UAE. This year’s festival builds on the success of previous editions and continues the tradition of promoting Ras Al Khaimah as a global cultural hub. The Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, with its unique blend of history and architecture, serves as the perfect backdrop for this open-air gallery, bringing together diverse artists from around the world.
The festival has become a central event in the cultural calendar of Ras Al Khaimah, attracting both local residents and international visitors eager to experience the UAE’s rich heritage and the global art scene.
What Are the Highlights of the Festival?
The Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival 2026 is packed with exciting programming and immersive experiences, offering something for everyone. A major highlight of this year’s festival is the inaugural Ras Al Khaimah Contemporary Art Biennale, which introduces experimental works that challenge traditional narratives. Curated by Sharon Toval, the biennale is organized into three key sub-themes:
- The Spirit Within: Exploring spiritual connections and their expression through art.
- Under the Same Sky: Focusing on the intersection of craft, AI, and heritage.
- Vision from the Source: A showcase of women’s perspectives in the art world.
The Main Exhibition, curated by Swiss photographer Alfio Tommasini, features works from 106 artists representing 49 nationalities. This exhibition bridges the gap between local traditions and international contemporary art, offering a dynamic exploration of how art shapes and reflects our identities.
When Are the Themed Weekends?
The festival is organized into four distinct themed weekends, each offering a unique experience for attendees:
- Opening Weekend (Jan 16–18): The festival kicks off with major exhibition unveilings and live performances, featuring artists like Emirati vocalist AlMaydee and the AFCENT Band. Expect a vibrant atmosphere with dynamic performances and immersive art showcases.
- Family & Pet-Friendly Weekend (Jan 23–25): This weekend caters to families with creative play zones, workshops for children, and animal-friendly art installations, ensuring that both young visitors and their pets can enjoy the festival’s offerings.
- Around the World Weekend (Jan 30–Feb 1): A celebration of global diversity, this weekend features international music, food, and cross-cultural art exchanges, highlighting the UAE’s global connections and diverse cultural heritage.
- Cultural Weekend (Feb 6–8): A tribute to Emirati heritage, this final weekend includes oral histories, traditional storytelling, and regional craft displays, providing an in-depth look at the local culture that has shaped Ras Al Khaimah.
What Are the Key Experiences and Programs?
The festival also introduces several key experiences and programming designed to further enhance the cultural atmosphere:
- The Hidden Table (AED 350): This innovative culinary-art hybrid experience combines fine dining with art in the heritage village. Restaurants such as Portugal’s Chama, Mediterranean Bungalo34, and the Michelin-starred Restaurant Pine host themed dinners that celebrate regional flavors and artistic expression.
- Workshops & Masterclasses: Visitors can participate in hands-on sessions in Analog Film Photography, Arabic Calligraphy, and Traditional Agriculture Techniques, providing a unique opportunity to engage with local culture and artistic practices.
- Performances & Film: A series of live performances, including mime shows by James SCARR and indoor film screenings at Al Hamra Mall, will entertain festival-goers throughout the event.
- Guided Tours: The festival offers curated Art Tours to help visitors understand the narrative of the exhibition and Heritage Tours to explore the village’s architecture and its rich history as a pearling hub.
When Can Visitors Attend?
The Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival 2026 runs from January 16 to February 8, 2026, at the Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. The festival is open from:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 11:30 PM
- Closed on Mondays
General admission to the heritage village is free, although some workshops, performances, and special experiences, such as The Hidden Table culinary event, require tickets.
Why Is This Festival Important?
The Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival is an important cultural event for several reasons. First, it highlights the UAE’s commitment to preserving and promoting its rich heritage while fostering creativity and modern artistic expression. The theme “Civilizations” connects the UAE’s cultural roots to global artistic movements, creating an inclusive platform for cultural exchange.
Second, the festival supports Ras Al Khaimah’s growing reputation as a center for arts and culture in the UAE and beyond. By bringing together international artists and showcasing Emirati heritage, the festival plays a crucial role in attracting global tourism and further integrating Ras Al Khaimah into the global cultural landscape.
Finally, the event creates opportunities for local artists and communities to engage with international art movements, providing a platform for creative growth and artistic dialogue.
How Can Visitors Make the Most of the Festival?
Visitors are encouraged to explore the full range of activities at the festival, from the contemporary art biennale to family-friendly workshops and cultural performances. For those interested in deepening their understanding of the art and history on display, guided tours and masterclasses provide excellent opportunities to engage with the material in a more personal way.
The combination of live performances, hands-on experiences, and global cultural exchanges ensures that every visitor will find something unique to enjoy at the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival 2026.
Conclusion: A Cultural Celebration Like No Other
The Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival 2026 is set to be an unforgettable event that celebrates the UAE’s rich cultural heritage while embracing the diversity of global art movements. With a wide range of exhibitions, performances, and unique experiences, this year’s festival promises to be a cultural journey through time and creativity. Whether you’re a local resident or an international visitor, the festival offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the intersection of tradition, modernity, and artistic expression in one of the UAE’s most iconic heritage sites.
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