The new art world: Art Dubai 2011

Art Dubai is the largest and most established contemporary art fair in the Middle East and, now in its fifth year, is to be held at Dubai’s luxury hotel resort Madinat Jumeirah later this week (16 – 19 March). Glitzy and cosmopolitan Dubai is the new place of pilgrimage for collectors, artists and art professionals from the MENASA (Middle East, North Africa, South Asia) and beyond, and this year’s fair will host around 80 galleries from 34 countries.

The fair will feature an extensive programme of collateral events, such as exhibitions by Van Cleef and Arpels, installations, workshops and, in particular, the Global Art Forum – the MENASA’s leading platform for cultural debate and discussion.

A highlight of the fair will be the unveiling of the Abraaj Capital Art Prize. The work of the five winning artists from the MENASA will be unveiled this week, showcasing their work to the global art community. The Prize is “the benchmark for artistic excellence in the MENASA,” and continues to “nurture talents and empower potential from this dynamic and diverse region,” explains Frederic Sicre, Executive Director of Abraaj Capital.

Follow the link to The Culturalist, recently voted the Best Asian Weblog, to read about the many art events on in Dubai throughout March.