Expo City Dubai Unveils Spectacular 10-Day Festival Showcasing Emirati Light Art and Culture
Expo City Dubai inaugurates an extraordinary 10-day celebration of Emirati light art and culture with the launch of Dhai Dubai, the region’s premier Emirati-led light art festival.
Unveiling Dhai Dubai: A Cultural Extravaganza
Dhai Dubai introduces an immersive 10-day extravaganza at Expo City Dubai, spotlighting the vibrant tapestry of Emirati culture through captivating artistic displays, interactive exhibits, insightful discussions, and innovative workshops.
Partnership and Support
Crafted and presented by Expo City Dubai in collaboration with AGB Creative, and with the endorsement of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, Dhai Dubai promises a remarkable experience for all attendees. The festival spans from January 26 to February 4, welcoming art enthusiasts from across the globe.
Journey Into Illumination
The festival’s grand inauguration witnessed the presence of Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, alongside eminent curators Amna Abulhoul and Anthony Bastic AM from Expo City Dubai and AGB Creative, respectively, alongside a multitude of local and international media representatives.
Artistic Marvels and Visionaries
Attendees embarked on a mesmerizing odyssey, encountering breathtaking light art installations curated by seven distinguished Emirati artists and designers. Among the luminaries are Mattar Bin Lahej, Dr. Najat Makki, Dr. Mohamed Yousef, Abdulla Almulla, Maitha Hamdan, Khalid Al Shafar, and Reem Al Ghaith.
Iconic Dome Spectacle
Al Wasl Plaza’s iconic dome, boasting a colossal 360-degree projection surface, hosts “Sisters of the Desert,” a special projection series paying homage to the late Emirati artist Dhabia Juma Lamlah. The presentation, inspired by Lamlah’s resilience, features international artists Rene Kulitja and Dr. Esther Mahlangu, fostering cross-cultural connections through art.
Illuminating Communities
In alignment with Dubai’s humanitarian ethos, Dhai Dubai collaborates with the award-winning Liter of Light initiative, providing solar lighting solutions to underprivileged communities worldwide. Festival-goers can contribute to this noble cause, with a portion of proceeds supporting the distribution of light lanterns to Agusan Marsh in the Philippines.
Interactive Engagement
Beyond passive observation, Dhai Dubai encourages active participation through striking installations like the Speed of Light skate park by XDubai, adorned with illustrations by Emirati artist Aysha Al Hamrani.
Visionary Voices and Enlightening Workshops
Enriching the festival experience, enlightening talks delve into thematic discussions, while creative workshops offer hands-on exploration. From a Lens and Light masterclass to engaging children’s activities, Dhai Dubai invites audiences of all ages to immerse themselves in the magic of light artistry.
Dhai Dubai illuminates Expo City Dubai from January 26 to February 4, beckoning visitors to embark on a journey of cultural discovery and artistic wonderment. Join us in celebrating the vibrant spirit of Emirati creativity and resilience at this unparalleled festival of light and culture.





