Dubai Culture & Arts Authority has opened the 14th Sikka Art & Design Festival, transforming Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood into a vibrant hub of creativity.
Running until 1 February under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the festival spotlights Emirati, UAE-based, and GCC artists while reinforcing Dubai’s position as a global cultural centre.
Sikka 14 brings together over 450 creatives presenting around 250 works across 16 houses. Installations, sculptures, and interactive experiences reflect this year’s theme, ‘Imagining Dubai: Identities of the Future,’ encouraging experimentation and dialogue across artistic disciplines.
Festival Director Khulood Khoory emphasized the event’s role in nurturing talent and supporting the UAE’s arts ecosystem. She highlighted the originality of this edition and its ability to provide a platform for artists to engage with regional and international peers.
The festival’s curation spans diverse areas including public art, technology, ceramics, photography, design, Khaleeji culture, urban arts, culinary arts, and international collaborations, featuring contributions from Mozah Lootah, Esra Ozkan, Kamal Al Zoubi, and others.
As part of Dubai Art Season, Sikka 2026 unveiled 11 new murals, seven interactive public artworks, and six installations, while more than 500 workshops and 30 panel discussions will address global trends in art and creativity. The main stage on Dubai Creek will host 55 live music shows, orchestral performances, and choral presentations, supported by 21 heritage and cultural museums.
Visitors can also explore culinary concepts from 41 food and beverage vendors, browse 45 local retail outlets, and experience nine curated supper clubs led by renowned chefs. The Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children will host workshops, the Future Stars competition, and collaborative community artworks, combining creativity with learning for families.
Sikka 14 reinforces Dubai’s commitment to building a dynamic, inclusive, and forward-looking cultural landscape.
News Source: Dubai Media Office
