Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Abu Dhabi desert is being transformed into a magical night-time art destination, as Manar Abu Dhabi – the public light-art exhibition – opens its second edition with free entry and a spectacular array of 22 installations built with lasers, mirrors, steel, glass, and fibre optics.
A Dazzling Outdoor Gallery on Jubail Island
Located on Jubail Island, the exhibition turns the natural surroundings into an interactive canvas. Visitors can stroll through laser-arched walkways and pathways that are illuminated by vibrant light, casting dynamic patterns across the dunes.
The designs are created by a mix of 15 Emirati and international artists hailing from around 10 countries, under the theme “The Light Compass”, which explores the interplay of light, land, and movement.
Interactive, Immersive and Family-Friendly
According to Daniel Iregui, founder of one of the creative collectives, the installations are interactive, meaning the artwork responds to the presence and movement of people: “When someone interacts, the piece shifts. When people leave, it resets. No moment repeats itself.”
This playful and responsive format seems especially popular with children, who run up to the installations and see the visuals change based on their gestures.
Expansion to Al Ain
In addition to Jubail Island, the exhibition has expanded to Al Ain for the first time. The UNESCO-listed oases of Al Jimi and Al Qattara are now lit up with immersive night-time artworks.
This broader footprint allows visitors to experience both the cultural richness of Al Ain’s heritage and the futuristic feel of light art in a natural setting.
Theme and Vision
The “Light Compass” theme reflects a deeper vision: exploring how light can map our relationship with land and movement. Through steel, fibre optics, glass, and mirrors, the installations create a dialogue between the natural desert landscape and contemporary art.
One notable piece is by the globally renowned artist KAWS, who built a sculpture of his iconic gloved character holding a moon. At night, the moon lights up — creating a striking silhouette against Abu Dhabi’s skyline.
Accessibility & Duration
The exhibition is open nightly from 5:30 PM to midnight.
Entry is free for all visitors.
For a curated experience, guided tours are available (in Al Ain) at a nominal cost of AED 50 per person.
The event runs until 4 January 2026, giving visitors ample time to explore.
Why It Matters
This event highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing cultural ambition, combining art, technology, and nature in a way that is accessible to families, art enthusiasts, and the broader public. By illuminating previously quiet desert and oasis spaces, the Manar Abu Dhabi exhibition transforms underused landscapes into immersive, community-centric attractions.
It also reflects the UAE’s broader investment in public art and innovation – aligning with its reputation for ambitious cultural projects that celebrate both tradition and futurism.
