The Art Fair Guy visited Art Dubai 2024 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
The 17th edition of Art Dubai, situated near the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, illustrated the art world's burgeoning scene in Dubai, a city experiencing a significant post-pandemic influx of new, wealthy residents. The fair, located in the luxurious Madinat Jumeirah complex, featured over 100 exhibitors across four sections: Contemporary, Modern, Bawwaba, and Digital, with a notable presence of local galleries reflecting Dubai's growing year-round influence in the art world. This year, Art Dubai aimed to redefine the "Global South" concept, focusing on shared histories and diasporic narratives, with an emphasis on discovery over traditional Western art fair norms. Highlights included the Modern section's exploration of cultural exchanges between the former Soviet Union and regions such as the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia, showcasing works with deep political and symbolic references. The fair's unique geographical position and its reflection of the city's diverse, expatriate-dominated demographic have established it as a significant barometer of global art trends, attracting a broad spectrum of international exhibitors and visitors.