AboutUs

About Department of Culture and Tourism

The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors, fuels economic progress, and helps achieve the UAE capital’s wider global ambitions. Our vision is defined by the Emirate’s heritage, language, and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity and innovation, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.

We strive to unite the tourism ecosystem around a shared vision of the Emirate’s potential, to coordinate efforts and investment, to regulate and to use the best tools, policies, and systems to support Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a leading global destination, locally and internationally. The Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030 and the Abu Dhabi Plan guides our strategy and role in contributing to the Emirate’s ambitions for economic diversification. Our collaborations with multiple stakeholders enable us to nurture and cultivate a community that celebrates, preserve and promote local heritage and values, attract national and international investment across our tourism segments, and stimulate growth by building an appealing yet distinctive tourism and cultural destination.

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About the Biennial

The inaugural Public Art Abu Dhabi Biennial 2024–2025: Public Matter explores the evolving concept of public space in Abu Dhabi through the lens of four main factors: environment, community, urbanity, and indigeneity. The Biennial investigates how environmental conditions influence gathering places and interactions, and how they define what is considered public space. It examines the interplay between the city’s modern development and its indigenous practices, addressing the challenge of preserving traditional values amid urban growth and economic diversification. Located in downtown Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, the Biennial aims to bridge the city’s past and present, featuring public art that engages the community and enhances walkability. Key highlights include the Abu Dhabi Bus Terminal, noted for its unique architecture and role as a community hub, and Al Ain’s pre-petroleum architectural heritage, including traditional mud-brick housing and lush oases. The event promotes inclusivity and invites artists to contribute to a deeper understanding of public spaces and their cultural significance.

Most artworks are freely accessible, with opening times* for the following sites:

Al Ain Oasis: 9:00 AM–5:30 PM

Hili Archaeological Park: 9:30 AM–6:30 PM

National Theatre: daily, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Umm Al Emarat Park: daily, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM

Biennial Hubs and Ushers: Monday–Thursday, 4:00–10:00 PM, Friday–Sunday, 12:00 PM–12:00 AM Food and beverages from 4:00 PM

Biennial Shuttle Bus: Monday–Thursday, 4:00–10:00 PM, Friday–Sunday, 4:00 PM–12:00 AM

*Times are subject to change