A Delayed Art Dubai Opens With Fewer Galleries-but Buyers Abound | Artnet News

The UAE flag with pan-Arab colors appeared widely across Dubai, including on taxis and delivery bikes, after an April 8 ceasefire between the United States and Iran. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum urged residents to raise the flag on homes and buildings to show solidarity and reassurance following more than five weeks of war. Art Dubai opened on Al Sufouh Road outside Madinat Jumeirah for VIPs, with fair halls packed on the first day. The event was delayed by geopolitical disruption and featured 50 largely regional galleries, about 60% fewer than originally expected. Dubai faced an economic shock from the conflict, shifting from growth to vulnerability and risk management, while guests described the fair’s intimate atmosphere as a pre-Covid feel. Refunds and credits reduced booth costs for exhibitors, with some paying only if sales occurred.

"After the April 8 ceasefire between the United States and Iran, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum urged residents to raise the flag on homes and buildings as a gesture of solidarity and reassurance after more than five weeks of war."

"Originally scheduled to take place in mid-April, but delayed by geopolitical upset, it presented an intimate showing of 50 largely regional galleries, around 60 percent less than the around 120 exhibitors originally expected."

"“It’s like the old days!” said Dubai-based dealer Charles Pocock, co-founder of Meem Gallery, which is presenting work by acclaimed Iraqi artist Dia Azzawi. He added that Art Dubai has “taken a huge risk” for the benefit of its exhibitors by refunding booth costs. “We now only pay for the booth if we sell, then we need to pay the fee from our sales,” he said. “If we don't sell, we don't need to pay.”"

"Dubai is weathering a significant economic shock due to the conflict, shifting from rapid growth to a phase of vulnerability and risk management. But the mood was upbeat on the opening day of the fair, with many guests complimenting its more intimate feel, noting it felt like a pre-Covid version of the event, before visitors started arriving en masse to the Gulf megapolis."

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