Dubai today is a bustling metropolis that not only signifies the growth of the Middle Eastern economy with its tall newly constructed skyscrapers; it also reinforces the view that the Arabian Peninsula has always remained an integral part of the global art scene. Boasting of proud architectural and artistic traditions, the Middle East has lost some of its glamour in the arts scene following its meteoric economic growth after the discovery of oil. However, the multi-faceted city of Dubai denies this fact with its plethora of art galleries that feature local and foreign painters.
Most art galleries are dedicated towards showcasing a particular type of arts or crafts, for example the Abrash Gallery on Sheikh Zayed Road features Iranian artistes. Iranian immigrants have played role in the shaping of the destiny of this city, thus it is only appropriate that an art gallery dedicated to traditional Iranian paintings, calligraphy and other handicrafts can be found here. In addition to traditional expressions of art, modern artistes particularly photographers also have regular travelling exhibitions here.
Another popular gallery frequented by the artistically inclined in this city is the Art Space gallery which is located conveniently close to the financial district. This gallery is devoted exclusively to Middle Eastern art and has permanent displays of prominent regional artistes such as Adel El Siwi a self trained Egyptian artist whose work is heavily influenced by the sense of irony in the subjects he chooses.
Yousef Ahmed is another artist that has been featured here, his work characterized by heavy use of patterns and shapes leaning towards European abstract artwork. Notably seen among the art galleries in this city is Red Gallery on Jumeirah which focuses on Vietnamese and far eastern artistes. Other galleries specializing in artistes from the subcontinent, Africa or Europe can be found as well, underlining the truly international representation seen in the Dubai art scene.
A Dubai five star hotel that allows great access to these cultural highlights is the Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai, which is a Dubai Airport hotel. Art lovers will be delighted with the variety that is found in this city which is fast gaining a reputation as a hub for contemporary art.