Dhai Dubai opened to public on Wednesday at Al Wasl Plaza at Expo City Dubai for its highly anticipated second edition. Held in strategic partnership with Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), the Emirati-led light art exhibition transforms the heart of Expo City Dubai into a dazzling celebration of culture and contemporary expression every evening until November 18.
Building on the success of the inaugural edition, Dhai Dubai 2025 presents seven spectacular artwork commissions produced by leading Emirati artists, designers and architects, representing three generations of pioneering vision and talent.
They include Fatma Lootah, Mohammed Kazem, Khalid Al Banna, Alia Bin Omair, AlZaina Lootah, Ahmed AlAreef, and Hessa Alghandi.
Visitors to Expo City Dubai will embark on a captivating journey around Al Wasl Plaza, exploring a series of large-scale installations, which offer unique insights into Emirati culture and heritage. Brilliantly lit artworks present moments of reflection, wonder and awe, bringing together thought-provoking cultural expressions with cutting-edge artistic innovation.
The works each explore the theme ‘Light Influences Life’, highlighting the profound impact of light on Emirati art, faith, culture and storytelling. Together, they present fresh perspectives on the personal stories and shared cultural narratives of the UAE, in often surprising and inspiring ways.
The seven artworks are joined by an immersive light activation, encouraging guests to wander, play and interact. There is also a dynamic programme of talks and workshops being held at Expo City Dubai’s venue, House of Arts, a multidisciplinary space dedicated to championing art from the region and making it accessible to all.
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design & Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, said: “Dhai Dubai’s second edition embodies our commitment to providing platforms that showcase the depth of Emirati creativity across generations. Bringing together three generations of pioneering artists is not only a celebration of their individual journeys, but also a reaffirmation of Dubai’s role in nurturing talent and expanding opportunities within the cultural and creative industries. Our strategic partnership with Expo City Dubai continues to strengthen the city’s cultural landscape, enabling experiences that blend heritage with contemporary artistic innovation and contribute to the growth of a vibrant, future-ready creative economy.”
Curated by Amna Abulhoul, Executive Creative Director of Entertainment and Experiences at Expo City Dubai, and Anthony Bastic AM, AGB Creative CEO & Executive Creative Director, the event marks a major addition to Dubai’s cultural landscape, representing Expo City Dubai’s efforts to contribute towards the creative economy and enrich lives through meaningful arts programming.
Reflecting on the return of Dhai Dubai, Amna Abulhoul said: “The moment has finally arrived to once again celebrate the harmonious spirit of Dubai through the majestic medium of light at Dhai Dubai. This year, we invite visitors to bask in the visionary glow of the UAE’s creative pioneers, beneath the stunning canopy of Al Wasl Plaza. Our guests will experience a cultural event unlike any other, at the crossroads of creativity, connection, tradition and innovation. We look forward to welcoming visitors to experience the depth and diversity of Emirati culture in exciting new ways, here in the heart of Expo City Dubai.”
Dhai Dubai’s second edition is free for all public and runs until 18th November 2025 at Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai.
For more information, please visit www.dhaidubai.com.
