The UAE is not immediately associated with excellence in the world of art. Nevertheless, while it may be true that no Emirati artist has yet attained worldwide fame, it is probably only a matter of time. Significantly, it is the women of the UAE, notably several of the Sheikhas, who are quickly making their mark on the international scene.

Individual emirates are actively promoting art and the fostering of artistic talent. In particular, Sharjah, as part of its concerted efforts to advance culture in all its guises, has opened the fist dedicated national art gallery in the UAE. The Emirates Fine Arts Society was established in that emirate also. Arguably the most important date on the UAE’s artistic calendar is the Sharjah Art Biennial where artists from other Gulf states, the Middle East and the rest of the world are invited to Sharjah to display their art. Awards are presented for various categories and the event is doing much towards formalizing art in the UAE and its perception abroad.

Abu Dhabi, too is active in art with the Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation providing an excellent focus for artistic activities. The Foundation provides a home for art and artists, for creation and display. From its quiet beginning in the early 1980s, it has now become a major source for promoting and encouraging art and knowledge in all its forms.

The Dubai Art Society was established in 1976 but only became widely known when it reinvented itself in 1980 by moving to newer premises and, later, in the mid-1980s, renaming itself as the Dubai International Art Centre. Today, it is prominent in the thriving local art scene. At the same time, Ra’s al-Khaimah’s Fine Art Association Centre is active in promoting the artistic skill of young artists in this northern emirate. As in other countries, the UAE benefits from the largesse of wealthy collectors in their efforts to build an artistic tradition. Members of the ruling families and the most prominent Emirati families often have private collections of considerable value, very often of the Orientalist school.

When, as happened at the Sharjah Art Gallery, valuable works are gifted to the people of the UAE, it simultaneously gives aspiring artists in the country the chance to experience works by great artists and adds substance and depth to any exhibited collections. The success of several private commercial galleries has also given a much needed boost to the local artistic community