Sikka Arts Festival returns for its 15th edition.
This time, it will take place across two locations.
Al Fahidi will once again light up with installations.
Visitors can expect a sensory overload as they explore the paved alleys of Old Dubai.
Dubai is known for its skyline and fast-paced lifestyle, but it’s also a thriving hub for the arts. One event that has been at the forefront of celebrating local creative talent is the Sikka Arts Festival, which has become a highlight of the Dubai Art Season each year.
This edition, Sikka Art & Design Festival is gearing up to celebrate 15 years of creativity and inspiration and will be returning at its OG spot, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. But this time, it’ll not be one venue. Al Shindagha too, will once again be adorned with works that speak to the soul, offering a truly heart-touching experience for all attendees under the theme, The Return.
Art takes centre stage with public art pieces and installations strategically placed across the heritage houses, courtyards, and alleyways, offering a visual spectacle of sculptures, murals, and interactive spaces. Dedicated talent hubs will nurture emerging creatives, with three houses and two courtyards transformed into incubators for artistic growth, including a dedicated space empowering people of determination to showcase their talents. Meanwhile, the festival’s walls will be brought to life with murals by globally acclaimed artists, reinforcing Dubai Culture’s vision to turn the city into an open-air art gallery.
As part of Dubai Art Season, the festival programme will roll out impressive workshops, thought-provoking panel discussions, live performances, theatrical productions, and grand orchestral concerts. Music lovers are in for a treat, with standout performances.
Innovation takes the spotlight with groundbreaking initiatives such as the ‘World Stage Design House,’ where theatre enthusiasts can explore daily workshops and performances; ‘Merin,’ a striking public art pavilion celebrating architectural aesthetics; and ‘Creatives on Wheels,’ a mobile theatre blending shadow play with live music. For foodies, the festival delivers an unparalleled culinary experience, showcasing over 50 homegrown F&B concepts. The same is expected for this edition as well.
‘Sikka’, which translates to alleyway, perfectly encapsulates the festival’s essence. It serves as a launchpad for many Emirati and UAE-based artists. The festival’s role in nurturing and promoting local creativity is evident in its decade-long journey. Centred initially around visual arts and design, Sikka has embraced a multidisciplinary approach. Film screenings, musical performances, talks, and workshops now share the stage with traditional art exhibitions.
So mark your calendars for January 2027, and immerse yourself in the magic of the Sikka Arts Festival.
Where: Al Fahidi and Al Shindagha
When: January 2027
Contact: @sikkaplatform