When Light Guides the Soul: Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 – A Journey Through Illumination

In the heart of the **UAE**, the glow of artistry will soon transform landscapes into living canvases. **Organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi)**, **Manar Abu Dhabi** is more than a public light art exhibition — it is a poetic invitation to experience the emirate’s diverse natural and cultural treasures through the language of light.  

For its second edition, the festival will bring together **15 Emirati and international artists and collectives** from **10 countries**, presenting **23 spellbinding works** that span site-specific sculptures, dynamic projections, and interactive installations. Under the theme **"The Light Compass"**, curated by Khai Hori with co-curators Alia Zaal Lootah, Munira Al Sayegh, and Mariam Alshehhi, Manar Abu Dhabi 2025 will bridge light's navigational power with its deeply emotive essence.  

Taking place across **Jubail Island, Souq Al Mina, and for the first time, Al Ain**, the festival will illuminate the emirate from **1 November 2025 to 4 January 2026** in Al Ain, and from **15 November 2025 to 4 January 2026** in Abu Dhabi. Each location offers a journey where art, nature, and heritage converge.  

Jubail Island – Where Nature Meets Light

At the heart of Manar Abu Dhabi 2025, **Jubail Island** will serve as the anchor, weaving light into its lush landscapes and verdant mangroves. The sprawling boardwalks will guide visitors past **EDEN (2025)** by Pamela Poh, an enchanting expanse of suspended glass spheres glowing against the night, and into **UNFOLD (2025)** by DRIFT, where technology turns personal biometric data into delicate, ephemeral flowers accompanied by gentle soundscapes.  

The sensory journey continues with **WHISPERS (2025)** — a sea of dancing lights responsive to the faintest movement — and **WIND OF CHANGE (2025)**, a drone performance rippling with energy. Emirati sculptor Shaikha Al Mazrou’s **CONTINGENT OBJECT (2025)** transforms subtly with the crystallisation of salt over time, harmonising with nature’s own rhythms. Meanwhile, digital art studio **Iregular** will activate the island with AI-driven works such as **AS WATER FALLS** and **FORTUNES**, blurring the boundaries between audience and artwork.  

These experiences are not isolated; they are interconnected moments in a larger narrative, created by global talents like Ezequiel Pini, Christian Brinkmann, Kirsten Berg, Encor Studio, and Lachlan Turczan. Together, they turn Jubail Island into a radiant theatre of imagination.  

Al Ain & Souq Al Mina – Illuminating Heritage and Horizons

For its debut in **Al Ain**, Manar Abu Dhabi will light up **Al Qattara** and **Al Jimi Oases**. In Al Qattara, Rafael Lozano-Hemmer’s **TRANSLATION STREAM (2023)** and **PULSE CANOPY (2025)** invite visitors to quite literally see their own heartbeat travel through beams of light. Emirati designer Khalid Shafar’s **SADU RED CARPET (2025)** transforms heritage weaving into an immersive pathway, connecting tradition with contemporary artistry.  

Meanwhile, the lush **Al Jimi Oasis Trail** hides within its palm groves a series of installations, from Ammar Al Attar’s **CYCLE OF CIRCLES** to Maitha Hamdan’s ethereal **BREATH OF THE SAME PLACE**. Visitors will encounter architectural elegance in Abdulla Al Mulla’s **GUIDING DRAPES**, and playful biophilic interaction through Christian Brinkmann’s **FLORAL RESONANCE**. Each piece invites you to slow down, observe, and connect.  

Finally, **Souq Al Mina** provides a bold contrast to the intimacy of the oases. Here, the city skyline meets the water as **KAWS: HOLIDAY Abu Dhabi** takes centre stage with an illuminated **COMPANION** gently lifting a moon, creating a striking visual that bridges pop culture with the serenity of the port.  

A Final Glow

From the serene boardwalks of **Jubail Island** to the shaded oases of **Al Ain** and the urban shores of **Souq Al Mina**, **Manar Abu Dhabi 2025** is a celebration of light as memory, guide, and poetry. It is an invitation to wander, wonder, and be transformed. As the **UAE** continues to embrace its cultural role on a global stage, events like this prove that art can illuminate far more than landscapes — it can light the path within us.  

A Landmark Moment: Abu Dhabi to Host the 2025 Pritzker Prize Ceremony

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is poised to enter a historic chapter in its cultural narrative as it prepares to host the 2025 Pritzker Prize ceremony. This prestigious event represents a significant milestone, not only for Abu Dhabi but also for the broader Middle Eastern region, marking the first time the ceremony will take place in this part of the world. As the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) has announced, this occasion will bring together the world’s foremost architects and creative thinkers, further solidifying Abu Dhabi’s position as a global cultural hub.

The Pritzker Architecture Prize is widely regarded as the highest honor in the field of architecture. It recognizes living architects whose innovative work demonstrates a unique blend of talent, vision, and steadfast commitment to enhancing the built environment. The significance of this award extends beyond personal accolades; it serves as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging architects worldwide to pursue excellence in their craft. By hosting the ceremony, Abu Dhabi aims to foster a rich dialogue about the future of architecture and its role in shaping sustainable and inclusive urban environments.

Abu Dhabi: A Cultural Powerhouse on the Rise

Abu Dhabi's selection as the host city for the 2025 Pritzker Prize ceremony is not merely a coincidence; it is the culmination of years of strategic cultural investments and a bold vision for the emirate's future. The city has made significant strides in establishing itself as a center for architectural excellence and innovation. Landmark projects, such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, showcase the emirate’s commitment to marrying heritage with modernity, creating spaces that invite dialogue and inspire creativity.

The Cultural Foundation, a cornerstone of Abu Dhabi's cultural landscape, has undergone extensive restoration, reflecting the emirate's dedication to preserving its rich heritage. These efforts align with the broader goal of promoting cultural expression and understanding, making Abu Dhabi an ideal location for a global event like the Pritzker Prize. The emirate’s architectural landscape, characterized by masterpieces designed by Pritzker Laureates, is a testament to its growing influence in the global architectural discourse.

His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, articulated the significance of this honor, stating, "We are deeply honoured that Abu Dhabi has been chosen as the host city for the 2025 Pritzker Architecture Prize, reflecting the recognition Abu Dhabi has received globally as a cultural centre." His remarks underscore the emirate’s long-term vision to integrate creativity and sustainability into its development strategy, a vision that resonates with the ethos of the Pritzker Prize.

The Significance of the Pritzker Prize Ceremony**

The Pritzker Prize is not merely an award; it embodies a tradition of honoring architectural excellence that spans decades. Each year, the prize ceremony is hosted at architecturally significant venues worldwide, drawing attention to the diverse narratives that shape our built environment. The selection of Abu Dhabi as the 2025 host city serves to highlight the UAE's burgeoning presence in the global arts and culture scene, as well as the country's willingness to embrace and promote innovative architectural practices.

Tom Pritzker, Chair of The Hyatt Foundation, eloquently articulated the significance of this event, stating, "In recent years, the UAE's growing presence in the global arts and culture landscape, and openness in supporting the works of international architects provides a backdrop of newness." This emphasis on diversity and innovation aligns perfectly with the mission of the Pritzker Prize, which seeks to honor architects who challenge conventional boundaries and explore new avenues in design.

Moreover, the event will feature a public panel discussion at the Cultural Foundation, providing an opportunity for thought leaders to engage with the community. This discussion, led by Liu Jiakun, the 2025 Pritzker Prize Laureate, will include fellow laureates such as Riken Yamamoto, David Chipperfield, and Francis Kéré. Together, they will explore the role of architecture in celebrating cultural expression, further enriching the discourse surrounding the built environment.

Abu Dhabi's Architectural Legacy: A Tapestry of Innovation and Sustainability**

Abu Dhabi's architectural legacy is not solely defined by its contemporary landmarks; it also encompasses a rich tapestry of history and culture that informs its modern identity. The emirate has skillfully balanced its commitment to preserving its cultural heritage with its ambition to innovate and lead in the global architectural arena. This delicate balancing act is evident in the design of key projects that have become synonymous with Abu Dhabi's skyline.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi, designed by Pritzker Prize Laureate Jean Nouvel, stands as a symbol of cultural exchange, drawing on a multitude of influences to create a unique architectural language. Its innovative design and use of light create an immersive experience for visitors, reflecting the emirate's dedication to fostering dialogue between cultures. Similarly, the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, designed by Frank Gehry, promises to be a landmark addition to the city, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a center for artistic and architectural innovation.

As Abu Dhabi continues to evolve, it remains committed to principles of sustainability and social responsibility. The emirate's approach to architecture emphasizes not only aesthetic value but also the importance of creating spaces that promote community engagement and environmental stewardship. This forward-thinking mindset aligns seamlessly with the goals of the Pritzker Prize, which advocates for architecture that serves humanity and enhances the quality of life.

The Future of Architecture in Abu Dhabi and Beyond

As the 2025 Pritzker Prize ceremony draws closer, Abu Dhabi stands at a crossroads of opportunity and innovation. The event promises to be a catalyst for meaningful discussions about the future of architecture, urban design, and cultural expression. By bringing together leading architects and thought leaders, Abu Dhabi aims to inspire a new generation of creators who will shape the cities of tomorrow.

The emirate's commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration is evident in its ongoing initiatives to support the arts and culture sector. As Abu Dhabi embraces its role as a global cultural hub, it is essential to recognize the potential for architecture to influence societal change and enhance human experiences. The Pritzker Prize ceremony will provide a platform for exploring these critical themes, allowing architects to share their visions for a sustainable and inclusive future.

Abu Dhabi's selection as the host city for the 2025 Pritzker Prize ceremony marks a pivotal moment in the emirate's cultural journey. This event not only highlights Abu Dhabi's impressive architectural accomplishments but also reinforces its status as a vital contributor to global architectural discourse. As the world looks to the UAE for inspiration, the 2025 Pritzker Prize ceremony promises to elevate discussions about creativity, sustainability, and the transformative power of architecture. 

Thus, as we anticipate this momentous occasion, it is crucial to recognize the role of architecture in shaping our communities and enriching our lives. The Pritzker Prize serves as a reminder of the importance of vision and dedication in the pursuit of architectural excellence, encouraging us all to envision a better future through the built environment.