Home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Jameel Arts Centre, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, and many other famous galleries, it’s no secret that the UAE offers an abundance of prestigious cultural institutions. However, away from the big names and priceless art, the nation has also nurtured a growing community of small yet dynamic – and very beautiful – independent spaces that are less talked about.
Committed to supporting emerging artists and promoting original artistic expression, here are four fascinating galleries that deserve to be on your radar.
Another ultra-cool hidden gem in Abu Dhabi’s Mina Zayed community, Iris Projects is the brainchild of 26-year-old Emirati gallerist Maryam Al Falasi. Representing a growing roster of up-and-coming as well as established contemporary artists from the GCC, its next big launch will be the first solo exhibition by Emirati artist Shamsa Al Omaira. Born in Abu Dhabi and part of Studio Untitled, the UAE capital’s inspiring all-female art collective, Shamsa’s emotionally charged paintings, photographs, installations, sculptures, and mixed-media works will be on display here from January 23, 2026.
Visit irisprojects.online
Previously known as Warehouse 421, this funky gallery has been at the centre of the ultra-trendy Mina Zayed area in Abu Dhabi for just over a decade. Offering a revolving roster of interesting exhibitions from regional artists as well as workshops and community events, its programmes somehow seem to get bigger and better with each passing year.
Running throughout the winter season, the 10th anniversary Rays, Ripples, Residue exhibition features installations, films, performances and multimedia works that explore how the UAE’s art scene has changed over the past ten years.
Up-and-coming talents can also apply to exhibit their own masterpieces during future seasons, or sign up for one of the gallery’s comprehensive internships.
Visit 421.online
Focused on showcasing African artists, the warm and welcoming Efie Gallery at Alserkal Avenue is incredibly cool in every way. Until January 2026, The Shape of Things to Come exhibition invites us to discover a collection of moving sculptures and artworks that explore how humanity can remain resilient in our ever-changing world.
Then, from January 17 to March 31, Ethiopian photographer Aïda Muluneh’s mesmerising solo exhibition offers an alternative take on conventional representations of African women, defined by bold colours, surrealist elements, and cultural motifs.
While you’re there, the jaw-dropping Rekord Gallery is also well worth checking out. Stacked floor-to-ceiling with over 2,000 rare and original records, it also features a lovely café, board games, and loads of books. A cosy place to relax and mingle with other like-minded creative souls, it also plays host to group-listening events throughout the year.
Visit efiegallery.com
Vibrant modern art space Green Art Gallery is another standout of Dubai’s popular Alserkal Avenue. Providing an exciting platform for multidisciplinary artists from the Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, and beyond, you can catch the bold paintings and artworks of Iranian artist Kamrooz Aram until the end of December this year, followed by boundary-breaking sculptural and installation pieces from Emirati artist Asma Belhamar in January 2026.
A regular participant in regional and international art fairs, this space always offers something fresh and memorable to experience on every visit.
Visit gagallery.com
