Alright, folks. If your idea of a perfect Ramadan evening includes samosas, spiritual reflection, and accidentally stumbling into an outdoor art installation that makes you question your entire existence—then buckle up. The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial is back with Phase Two, and this one’s a total vibe.
Running till 30 April 2025, this ain’t your regular walk in the park (though walking in parks is involved). It’s a city-wide art takeover, with more than 70 artists from the UAE and across the globe turning Abu Dhabi into a cultural playground. And yes, it’s designed to be just as Instagrammable as it is thought-provoking. Think: Corniche meets creativity, and Iftar strolls with soul.
Art That Talks Back—And Maybe Plays Ping Pong With You
Let’s talk Migration Granary at Hili Archaeological Park. It’s not just a bunch of bricks; it’s a moving tribute to the journey of displaced people—built from local materials that whisper stories of resilience. It’s the kind of space where you’ll find yourself pausing mid-scroll, setting your phone aside, and actually… feeling stuff. (Crazy, right?)
Then there’s Urban Negotiation, where a collective from Bogotá turned an old shop into a ping pong-powered social experiment. Yes, a wooden table went on a joyride through Abu Dhabi and basically became the city’s coolest conversation starter. Forget dating apps—this table had more genuine interactions in 9 weeks than most of us do all year.
Kids, Culture, and the Coolest Playground Ever
Parents, listen up. At Playful Traditions by Ayesha Hadhir, your little ones can climb a dhow, splash by a fountain, and play inside a reimagined fishing trap. It’s like Moana, but make it Emirati. Bonus: there’s Storytelling for Children happening on March 21–23, 8:00–8:45 pm at the Cultural Foundation. Trust us, it’s the bedtime story sesh you actually won’t want to miss.
Now That’s Deep (Literally and Artistically)
Deep Spaces by Lúcia Koch throws massive photos of empty cardboard box interiors into ad panels across the city. Sounds simple? It’s anything but. Suddenly, the box your Amazon delivery came in will feel like a metaphor for your soul. Classic art move.
And if you’re walking near Etihad Square, you’ll spot Crown—Rand Abdul Jabbar’s tribute to childhood nostalgia, community roots, and everything that makes Abu Dhabi feel like home. It’s got that quiet “aww” factor… just without being cheesy.
Look Up, Abu Dhabi – There’s a Cocoon Floating
Over in the city centre, artist Tarik Kiswanson decided that gravity was optional and suspended Nest, a cocoon-shaped sculpture, midair. It’s giving futuristic, meditative, and possibly alien—but like, in a comforting way. It’s his first public artwork and honestly, we’re already obsessed.
Meanwhile, Let’s Not Wait to Fill Our Cups with Time (go ahead, say that 3 times fast) transforms the Heritage Park watchtower with vibrant hessian circles, reminding us that we’ve come a long way—and we shouldn’t waste time pretending otherwise.
For the Bookworms and Map Nerds
Sophia Balagamwala’s Other Maps and Guides is a series of artful, illustrated booklets that blend fact, fiction, flora, fauna, and migration. Basically, a choose-your-own-adventure for grownups—with way cooler drawings. Pick up your free copy at any Biennial info centre and channel your inner explorer.
Bonus Round: Bus Terminals, Suhoor, and Surprise Soundscapes
Heads up: Al Mahatta is about to become the coolest refurbished bus terminal on the planet. The mezzanine’s former wedding hall (yes, that’s a thing) is being transformed into an event space dripping with retro vibes and modern flair. While you wait for the full glow-up, catch sound installations and quirky exhibits throughout the terminal. Oh, and yes, you read that right—there’s a Daniel Buren piece in the bus station. Abu Dhabi’s flexing hard.
And if you’re the type who loves deep convos over suhoor, Dirwaza Lab Talks has got you covered. Head to the Carpet Souq on March 21 at 9pm for artist meetups, live music from Bait Al Oud, and a panel that promises intellectual snacks and actual snacks.
So, What’s the Game Plan?
- Before Iftar: Go on a peaceful stroll, reflect a little, maybe let a giant sculpture remind you of your childhood.
- After Iftar: Catch an art talk, hit the ping pong table, and dive into an open-air experience that feels just as soulful as it is stimulating.
The Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial isn’t just art—it’s art you feel, art you play with, art you snack after. So ditch the scroll fatigue and embrace the magic of Ramadan with culture, community, and a touch of whimsy.
Check out routes, installations, and all the juicy deets on the Public Art Abu Dhabi website (because let’s be honest, Google Maps isn’t showing you where the floating cocoons are).
