The art scene in the UAE is rapidly evolving, and Emirati artists continue to shape this vibrant landscape with unique perspectives and innovative approaches. Here are some Emirati artists whose work you should be following by the end of the year:
Abdulqader Alrais
AbdulQader AlRais is a prominent contemporary artist, known for his abstract works that integrate geometric forms and Arabic script. His signature use of floating squares across the canvas has become a hallmark of his style.
Initially focused on local sceneries, AlRais evolved to explore abstract compositions, blending geometric illusions with realistic imagery. This fusion of styles allowed him to express his individuality and move beyond traditional forms. His work now combines calligraphic abstraction with geometric precision, creating vibrant, dynamic canvases that push artistic boundaries.
In 2015, AlRais’s artwork adorned Dubai Metro carriages as part of the Dubai Arts Season. The following year, he participated in *Art Nomads - Made in the Emirates* in Berlin, further solidifying his influence in contemporary art.
Mooza Al Matrooshi
Moza Almatrooshi is a UAE-based conceptual artist, writer, and chef, who earned her MFA from the Slade School of Fine Art in London in 2019. Her work explores the erased mythology of the Arabian Peninsula, examining how these myths intersect with contemporary regional political structures. Through a blend of performance, moving image, audio media, and text, Almatrooshi creates thought-provoking narratives. Her work has been showcased at prestigious venues such as the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, the ICA London, and BBC's New Creatives project, as well as featured in the second Lahore Biennale.
Mattar Bin Lahej
Mattar Bin Lahej is an Emirati painter, photographer, and sculptor based in Dubai. He is the founder of Marsam Mattar, the first art gallery in the UAE managed by an artist. Bin Lahej is also renowned for his work as the artist and calligrapher behind the façade of the Museum of the Future, one of Dubai’s most iconic buildings, often described as "the only building that speaks Arabic." His innovative approach to art and design has made a significant impact on the cultural landscape of the UAE.
Abdulla Lutfi
Abdulla Lutfi is an Emirati artist based in Dubai, known for his humorous black and white drawings of the UAE's skylines and landscapes. His work, often signed "A.L.," is influenced by his love for Japanese culture and his unique perspective as an autistic savant. Abdulla uses his condition to create art that conveys his distinct view of the world, raising awareness for "The People of Determination."
With sold-out solo exhibitions and commissions from institutions like Dubai International Airport, Abdulla has made a significant impact. He also mentors fellow artists and works to promote inclusion and visibility for special needs artists through his art and workshops.
Maisoon Al Saleh
Born in 1988, Emirati artist Maisoon Al Saleh is a Dubai-based artist and entrepreneur known for her bold, surrealist works that explore modern Emirati culture and history. A Zayed University graduate, Al Saleh has held four solo shows and participated in over 100 exhibitions worldwide, including events in the UAE, Europe, and the United States.
Her art features vibrant colors and abstract forms, often employing mediums like acrylic, mixed media, fiberglass, and even underwater painting. Al Saleh’s unique style often incorporates skeletons, symbolizing timeless human experiences and sparking discussions on Emirati heritage and how history is represented. Through her art, she invites viewers to reflect on identity and the layers beneath our shared stories.
Noora Al Serkal
Noura Alserkal is a UAE-based artist whose work delves into themes of genealogy, family history, and the interplay between known and unknown narratives. With a background in Jewellery and Metal from the Royal College of Art, she uses archival research to reconstruct personal histories, often addressing neglected or taboo topics. Her artistic approach melds the commercial with the conceptual, focusing on immaterial connections as much as physical artifacts.
Notable achievements include winning the RCA x Swarovski Design Project in 2018 and presenting her work in Austria. She has also participated in the Dubai-Berlin Exchange Program and the Cultural Excellence Fellowship, showcasing her unique fusion of storytelling and experimental design.
Aisha Juma
Aisha Juma, a Dubai-born Emirati artist, is celebrated for her art that bridges spiritual philosophy and contemporary mediums. Her work, influenced by mindfulness and the connection between inner and outer spaces, often explores existential themes. She is known for her “automatic” or “channeled drawings,” created through a meditative process, which capture her belief in the interconnectedness of all beings.
Juma, an early advocate for the UAE arts scene, champions the importance of developing visual arts alongside other forms like music, literature, and theater. She envisions innovative art education programs that blend art and science, along with high-tech multidisciplinary studio spaces that foster this synthesis. Since 2022, she has also explored NFTs, further broadening her reach in the art world.
Khaled Al Jaberi
Khaled, an Abu Dhabi-based Emirati cartoonist, is known for his sharp and witty illustrations that capture everyday life in the UAE. His distinct style and relatable humor often tackle themes like relationships and society's addiction to phones and social media. Some of his cartoons spark controversy, as they touch on sensitive topics, frequently igniting heated discussions in the comments. Khaled’s work resonates with many, prompting viewers to reflect on modern life in the UAE.
Khawla Mohammad Darwish
Khawla Darwish is an Emirati artist celebrated for her emotive depictions of the human heart, expressed across various media. Her deeply personal work draws inspiration from the loss of a family member, adding layers of vulnerability and connection to her creations. Darwish frequently showcases her art at prominent UAE events like the Sikka Art Fair, where her pieces resonate with audiences through their raw, heartfelt themes.
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