Sheikh Maktoum Al Maktoum has been announced as one of three artists selected for the 2025 edition of Beyond: Emerging Artists, the annual programme that commissions new work by up-and-coming UAE-based talent. Curated by internationally renowned artist Issam Kourbaj, the initiative will see the selected artists debut their commissioned pieces at Abu Dhabi Art, taking place from 19 to 23 November 2025 at Manarat Al Saadiyat.
Speaking about his selection for the Beyond Emerging Artists programme, Sheikh Maktoum Al Maktoum shared: “I am honoured to have been selected as part of the Beyond: Emerging Artists programme. I especially look forward to the mentorship of Issam Kourbaj and continuing the world-building approach of my work within the context of an art fair, as well as investigating the archaeological histories of our country in sites such as those found in Al Ain.”
Born in 1995, Sheikh Maktoum Marwan Al Maktoum is a member of Dubai’s ruling family and the grandson of His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the former Ruler of Dubai. He hails from a distinguished lineage rooted in leadership and creativity. His aunt, Her Highness Sheikha Lateefa bint Maktoum Al Maktoum, is a celebrated artist, while his sister, Sheikha Mozah bint Marwan Al Maktoum, is a pioneering figure in aviation.
Sheikh Maktoum received his early education at Rashid School for Boys in Dubai, before earning a BSc in Psychology from Goldsmiths, University of London, and later completing an MSc in International Real Estate and Planning.
He is currently employed in the Projects & Events Department, Arts and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture & Arts Authority.
Sheikh Maktoum Marwan Al Maktoum is a multidisciplinary artist whose work explores the human condition through themes such as value, time, belief systems and the psyche. His practice is influenced by lived experience, folklore, storytelling, surrealism, language, and metaphor. Through a narrative-driven, world-building approach, he constructs new associations and meanings that reflect cultural memory and personal exploration. His work has been featured in notable exhibitions, including The Nest Festival in Bahrain (2024) and the Sharjah Islamic Arts Festival (2023).
