From pottery and painting to splatter art and candle making, these creative spaces across the capital are perfect for discovering your artistic side.
Abu Dhabi is packed with inspiring art studios and creative spaces where you can paint, sculpt, throw clay and even make a colourful mess. Whether you’re looking for pottery classes, art workshops or a fun creative activity to try with friends, there is plenty to choose from. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to put your creativity to the test.
421 Arts Campus
Set in the industrial surroundings of Mina Zayed, 421 Arts Campus is a creative hub where art, design and community come together. More than just a gallery, the contemporary space hosts a rotating program of hands-on workshops led by artists and designers from across the region. Depending on what’s on, you can try everything from block printing and textile weaving to experimental ceramics and acrylic painting. Whether you’re keen to pick up a new skill or simply spend a few hours getting creative, it’s a great place to explore different crafts while supporting the region’s creative community. AED 60 per person.
Where: 421 Arts Campus, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi
When: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 8pm
Contact: www.421.online
Abu Dhabi Pottery
If you’ve ever wanted to try throwing a pot on a wheel, this is the place to do it. Established in 1994 in the heart of the Al Khalidiyah neighbourhood, Abu Dhabi Pottery has long been a creative space for pottery enthusiasts, and stepping inside feels like entering a real working studio. Expect clay-covered workbenches, pottery wheels in full swing, and shelves lined with handcrafted ceramics. Founded by master potter Homa Valaei, the studio offers everything from wheel throwing and hand-building to glazing workshops, with experienced instructors guiding you through every step. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, you’ll leave with something you’ve made yourself. AED 195 per person.
Where: Abu Dhabi Pottery, Dabbas Street, Al Khalidiyah, Abu Dhabi
When: Sunday to Friday from 10.30am to 8.30pm
Contact: www.abudhabipottery.com
Al Marsam Al Hor
Located in the historic Al Hisn district, the Cultural Foundation’s Al Marsam Al Hor has been a space for artists for years. The light-filled studios are designed for everything from painting and drawing to printmaking and ceramics. Whether you’re joining a workshop with local artists or simply looking to sharpen your skills, the space makes it easy to get creative. Afterwards, recharge with a coffee from The Espresso Lab or enjoy a bite at Mirzam Chocolate Makers, both located within the landmark. AED 100 per person.
Where: Al Marsam Al Hor, Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Al Hisn, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday to Thursday from 9am to 8pm; Friday from 2pm to 8pm
Contact: www.culturalfoundation.ae
Al Qattara Arts Centre
Housed inside a beautifully restored mud-brick fort in Al Ain, Al Qattara Arts Centre is as inspiring as the art you’ll create there. The space blends traditional Emirati architecture with bright, well-equipped studios where you can try pottery, painting, calligraphy and more. It’s an ideal spot to slow down, learn a new skill and soak up a little culture while you’re at it. Once you’ve finished your workshop, head to the peaceful courtyard café for a coffee and a quiet break before exploring the rest of the heritage district. AED 150 per person.
Where: Al Qattara Arts Centre, Al Qattarah, Al Ain, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 9am to 8pm
Contact: https://abudhabiculture.ae
Art Central
Part art studio, part creative hub, Art Central on Al Reem Island in Abu Dhabi is made for anyone who loves getting hands-on. The bright, contemporary space is equipped for everything from painting and resin art to pottery, making it easy to experiment with something new. Join a guided workshop or enjoy creating in a professional studio stocked with the tools you need. Whether you’re looking to learn a new hobby or spend an afternoon making art, it’s a good option for trying your hand at different creative activities. AED 230 per person.
Where: Art Central, Boutik Mall, Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 10pm
Contact: www.artcentral.ae
Art House Café
More than just a place to grab a bite, Art House Café in Al Bateen brings food and creativity together under one colourful roof. Located beside the Etihad Modern Art Gallery, the café is filled with upcycled décor and invites you to get creative right at your table. Choose a ceramic plate, glass bottle, mask or canvas, pick up some paints and let your imagination do the rest while sipping on a coffee or enjoying a bite to eat. Whether you’re catching up with friends or spending a quiet afternoon creating, it’s an easy-going way to add a little art to your day. AED 25 per person.
Where: Art House Café, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 9am to 11pm
Contact: https://arthousecafead.com
The Art Studio
Set in the heart of Saadiyat Cultural District, the Art Studio at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi is a place to explore your creative side. Bright, spacious and packed with professional facilities, the studio offers everything you need to try pottery, sculpture, printmaking and more. Resident artists are on hand to guide workshops, while open-studio sessions give you the freedom to work at your own pace. Once you’ve finished creating, stop by the onsite French-Italian bistro, Taparelle, for a coffee or a leisurely bite before heading home with your latest masterpiece. AED 100 per person.
Where: The Art Studio, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi
When: Daily from 10am to 8pm
Contact: www.manaratalsaadiyat.ae
House of Artisans
Set within the historic grounds of Qasr Al Hosn, House of Artisans offers a hands-on introduction to the UAE’s rich craft traditions. The cultural space brings Emirati heritage to life through workshops where you can learn the delicate art of Talli embroidery, try Khoos palm-leaf weaving or discover traditional techniques used to shape and fire local clay pottery. Guided by skilled artisans, each experience offers a closer look at the techniques and stories passed down through generations. It’s a meaningful way to get creative while gaining a deeper appreciation for the country’s artistic heritage. AED 50 per person.
Where: House of Artisans, Qasr Al Hosn, Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum Street, Al Hisn, Abu Dhabi
When: Saturday to Thursday from 9am to 8pm; Friday from 2pm to 8pm
Contact: https://qasralhosn.ae
MAKE Abu Dhabi
If you prefer making over painting, MAKE Abu Dhabi is a creative hub for makers, designers and anyone who enjoys building things from scratch. Located in Mina Zayed, the warehouse-style space is equipped with everything from 3D printers and laser cutters to woodworking equipment, making it ideal for prototyping, furniture design and hands-on workshops. There’s also an onsite speciality coffee bar, so you can grab a flat white and keep the ideas flowing while you work on your art in Abu Dhabi. AED 200 per person.
Where: MAKE Abu Dhabi, MiZa, Mina Zayed, Abu Dhabi
When: Monday to Thursday from 9am to 9pm; Friday from 9am to 6pm
Contact: https://make.works
RFLCT Creative Arts Centre
Whether you’re picking up a paintbrush for the first time or looking to explore a new artistic hobby, RFLCT Creative Arts Centre offers a welcoming place to begin. Located in Khalifa City, the bright, contemporary studio is designed to help beginners feel at ease, with instructors guiding every step of the process. Choose from Arabic calligraphy, fluid acrylic pouring, mosaic art, embroidery and more, using quality materials and professional tools throughout your session. It’s a community-focused space where the emphasis is on creativity, confidence and enjoying the process as much as the finished piece. AED 200 per person.
Where: RFLCT Creative Arts Centre, Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi
When: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 10pm
Contact: @rflct.arts
Splatter Rooms
Art doesn’t have to be neat, and Splatter Rooms in Abu Dhabi proves exactly that. Tucked inside Al Seef Village Mall, this lively studio swaps quiet easels for paint-filled fun, inviting you to splash, fling and pour colour across your canvas without worrying about perfection. Expect immersive glow-in-the-dark lighting, pendulum painting setups, acrylic pouring stations and plenty of room to let your imagination run wild. Whether you’re visiting with friends, family or on a date, it’s a playful experience that encourages creativity without worrying too much about the finished result. AED 139 per person.
Where: Splatter Rooms, Al Seef Village Mall, Al Salam Street, Al Muntazah, Abu Dhabi
When: Monday to Sunday from 10am to 10pm
Contact: www.splatterrooms.com
Studio CLAY
Dedicated entirely to the art of ceramics, Studio CLAY offers a peaceful escape where slowing down is all part of the experience. Founded by an Emirati artist in Al Manhal, the boutique studio blends a calm, thoughtfully designed setting with pottery equipment, from electric wheels and hand-building benches to a selection of sculpting tools and kilns. Whether you’re shaping clay by hand or learning the techniques of wheel throwing, the supportive atmosphere makes it easy to build confidence while creating something uniquely your own. AED 350 per person.
Where: Studio CLAY, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, Al Manhal, Abu Dhabi
When: Tuesday to Thursday, Saturday & Sunday, 10.30am to 9.30pm; Monday, 6pm to 9.30pm
Contact: www.studioclay.ae
Studio Coe
Perched on the mezzanine level inside Taparelle Restaurant at Manarat Al Saadiyat, Studio Coe offers a peaceful setting where creativity takes centre stage. The minimalist ceramics studio is designed for both beginners and experienced potters, with professional pottery wheels, sculpting tools and bespoke glazes helping bring every creation to life. Once you’ve finished shaping your masterpiece, you can make a day of it with a visit to Taparelle, the French-Italian restaurant on the mezzanine, for breakfast or lunch. Blending pottery and food in one setting, it’s an ideal spot to spend a creative afternoon. AED 220 per person.
Where: Studio Coe, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi
When: Tuesday to Sunday from 10am to 8pm
Contact: www.studiocoe.com
Titch’s Attic
Hidden away in Khalifa City A, Titch’s Attic is a cosy, family-run studio where creativity comes in all forms. Operating by appointment only, the intimate space offers a relaxed setting for unwinding with friends or enjoying a quieter creative escape. With everything from pottery and mosaics to resin art and candle making on offer, there’s no shortage of projects to try, and all materials are provided. Whether you’re discovering a new hobby or simply looking for a fun way to spend an afternoon, this studio offers plenty of options for getting creative. AED 120 per person.
Where: Titch’s Attic, Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi
When: Monday to Sunday from 9am to 9pm
Contact: https://www.titchsattic.com
TLeib Pottery Studio
Set on the peaceful shores of Saadiyat Island, TLeib Pottery Studio offers a more intimate take on the pottery experience. Designed for private sessions and pottery date nights, the studio focuses on creating a calm, personalised environment where you can fully immerse yourself in the craft. Using clay, professional pottery wheels and a selection of glazes, you’ll be guided through the process of shaping your own ceramic piece before the studio takes care of the firing. It’s a relaxing experience that feels just as rewarding as the finished creation. AED 303 per person.
Where: TLeib Pottery Studio, The Residence Collection, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
When: Monday to Sunday from 11am to 8.30pm
Contact: www.tleib.space