Some festivals are here to entertain, but the Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 Festival, along with being amusing, invites you to be thoughtful. From January 16 to February 8, 2026, the emirate’s flagship cultural event returns to Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. This year marks the 14th edition of the festival as it is set to unfold a month-long creative journey inspired by the theme “Civilisations: Under the Same Sky.”
Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 Festival Returns With A Month-Long Celebration Of Civilisations
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There is no better place to host this festival than Al Jazeera Al Hamra in RAK, as mentioned in a report by Mena.fm. The UAE’s last intact Emirati pearling village brings weight to every artwork, performance, and discussion.
As part of the Ras Al Khaimah Art initiative under the Sheikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi Foundation for Policy Research, the festival continues to support artists year-round via grants, workshops, and masterclasses. This pop-up event is responsible for their continued growth.
106 Artists, 49 Nationalities And One Shared Theme
This year’s programme brings together 106 artists from 49 nationalities. It spans exhibits, performances, film screenings, workshops, and guided tours.
The theme of Civilisation traces how cultures grow, collide, and leave creative legacies behind. It draws from the ancient Silk Road routes that once connected Ras Al Khaimah to the world.
A Milestone Moment: The First Contemporary Art Biennale
At the heart of the festival sits a major first. The inaugural Ras Al Khaimah Contemporary Art Biennale. Curated by Sharon Toval, this marks a defining moment for the emirate’s cultural landscape.
Works range from quiet and reflective to bold and confrontational. Artists involved are Sutee Kunavichayanont and Stefano Cagol. Then we have photographers such as Hicham Benohoud. Visitors will also witness artworks by Hannan Abu-Hussein, Kawita Vatanajyankur, and Francesca Fini.
Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 Festival Returns With 106 Global Artists, Exhibits & More
Edible Artwork In Ras Al Khaimah
Culture here isn’t painted just on the walls of the Emirate. The launch of The Hidden Table adds a strong culinary layer to the festival.
Each week introduces a new dining experience, including fire-led cooking from Portugal’s Chama, Mediterranean comfort from Bungalo34, and seasonal plates by Restaurant Pine.
Weekends Designed for Every Kind of Visitor
Every weekend brings variety for guests. Opening Weekend sets the tone with Family and Pet Friendly Weekend, inviting everyone in. Around the World celebrates global exchange. Add guided heritage tours, live performances, and outdoor film screenings, and the experience feels complete.
Mark January 16 in your calendar and experience the festival to create unforgettable memories in Ras Al Khaimah.
Cover Image Courtesy: Ras Al Khaimah Arts /Website
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