With the weather oh-so dreary and our outdoor activities cancelled, we’re looking for indoor alternatives that are just as exciting. That’s where Abu Dhabi Art comes in.

The regions’ favourite art fair is returning for its 11th edition to display modern and contemporary art from over fifty galleries, but that’s not all – there will also be exhibitions, commissions, performances, workshops and talks to keep you busy all weekend long. We can’t think of a better way to escape the rain than by strolling through art galleries and soaking up some culture.

Abu Dhabi Art isn’t your traditional art fair, as it aims to appeal to artists, art enthusiasts and the public at the same time. So don’t worry, it isn’t some stuffy event where you’ll feel out of place if you can’t interpret a squiggle.

Make sure to check out the Beyond: Emerging Artists programme led by Dubai-based artists, as well as the Focus sector that’ll be celebrating artists from the UAE. Also, you won’t want to miss The Cloud in the Commissions section – the piece is a cloud captured in glass (seriously!), and the artist’s reasoning behind it is just as cool (we’re not going to spoil it).

This year will also be the first edition of the Al Burda Endowment Exhibition, which’ll showcase the work of ten artists, each of which have created their own installations representing elements of Islamic culture.

As well as focusing on the Middle East, Abu Dhabi Art will also be displaying work from some of the leading artists from India and China, and well-known French-Tunisian artist eL Seed’s work will also be featured in the fair as part of The Journey – a presentation of the impact of French Luxury.

Tickets are free for university students, and adults can nab a three-day pass for Dhs55. The ticket includes access to the performing arts programme as well as all the talks and exhibits. 

There’s so much going on this weekend that there’s something for everyone, no matter what type of art you’re into. For a full breakdown of the galleries, as well as schedules and other information, visit the Abu Dhabi Art website here.

And if you’re looking for something to do once the day is done, Dubai’s super-club White is coming to Abu Dhabi on Friday November 22 for one night only. The pop-up club (who knew that was a thing?) will have DJs and performances, and will be headlined by Lebanese-Canadian R&B singer Massari.

November 21 – 23, 2pm-9pm daily. Manarat Al Saadiyat, Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi.