Quoz Arts Fest Returns to Alserkal Avenue
The vibrant city of Dubai is set to come alive as the Quoz Arts Fest (QAF) makes its much-anticipated return on the last weekend of January. Scheduled for Saturday, January 25, and Sunday, January 26, this annual celebration is now in its 12th year and promises to be a spectacular showcase of both local and international talent. Attendees can look forward to an eclectic mix of art installations, live music, culinary delights, and engaging activities for children.
This outdoor festival, running from 10 AM to 11:30 PM, welcomes families and exudes a palpable community spirit. The lanes of Alserkal Avenue will be transformed into a bustling hub of stalls, art, and gourmet food trucks, creating an inviting atmosphere for all. Tickets are available for purchase on the Alserkal Avenue website, with one-day passes priced at Dhs63 and weekend passes at Dhs126. Notably, seniors aged 60 and above and children under 18 can enjoy free entry. Additionally, pet owners can bring their furry friends along to join in the festivities.
Since its inception in 2012, Quoz Arts Fest has evolved into a prominent regional event, serving as a creative meeting ground for Dubai’s diverse communities. This year, the festival is set to present its most expansive program yet, with cultural expression at its core and a strong emphasis on community involvement.
Live Music Lineup
One of the festival’s standout features will undoubtedly be the live music performances, featuring an array of talented artists. Headlining the weekend is the renowned Syrian rapper, poet, and storyteller, Omar Offendum, celebrated for his poignant reflections on themes of immigration and identity. Attendees will also be captivated by the ethereal sounds of Emel Mathlouthi, a Tunisian singer-songwriter who masterfully blends traditional Arabic music with contemporary influences.
Other must-see acts include the minimalist folk duo Ÿuma, the genre-defying collective Musaafir Music from Pakistan, and House of Yanos, known for their fusion of Amapiano and Afro Tech. Festival-goers can also enjoy performances by Dubai City Sound’s all-female choir, the raw energy of BOUMPH, and the eclectic beats of DJ Hend, who will take listeners on a musical journey through Afrobeats, Amapiano, and classic R&B. The main stage, hosted by Dubai’s own MC Big Hass, promises to deliver an exhilarating experience.
Art Installations to Explore
For those who prefer a more visual experience, the festival will feature an array of stunning public art installations. Among the highlights is Forest Dancer and The Path to Pure Creation by Australia’s ENESS, offering an immersive experience that combines light, sound, and movement, allowing visitors to step into a dreamlike artistic realm. As you wander through the Avenue, be sure to look out for Bright Memories by Abdulla Alneyadi, a creative reinterpretation of iconic water dispensers, and a surprise installation by Brazilian artist Zé Tepedino.
Emirati artist Lamya Gargash will showcase her large-scale installation, A Corridor of Books, which explores themes of memory and devotion, inspired by the private library of a notable UAE collector. This piece reflects on identity through the lens of lived spaces and the narratives they hold.
The galleries within Alserkal Avenue will remain open throughout the weekend, featuring an impressive lineup of exhibitions. At the Ishara Art Foundation, visitors can explore Lines of Flight by Shilpa Gupta, while Lawrie Shabibi presents a solo exhibition by Farhad Ahrarnia. Additionally, group exhibitions such as ‘Neither Here ~ Nor Elsewhere’ at The Third Line and ‘Citadelles of Today’ by Chaouki Choukini at Green Art Gallery will cater to a diverse range of art enthusiasts.
Stage 2.0: Showcasing Local Talent
In its third year, Stage 2.0 will present Quoz Encore, offering a platform for emerging UAE-based artists to shine. This is an excellent opportunity to discover fresh talent making their debut on the arts scene. The afikra conversations will also feature a series of enlightening talks with artists, providing deeper insights into the creative process.
Reel Palestine Film Festival
The Reel Palestine Film Festival, hosted by Cinema Akil, will add a cinematic flair to the weekend, celebrating Palestinian stories through screenings and a special souk featuring crafts and culinary delights inspired by Palestinian culture.
Kids’ Lane: Fun for the Younger Crowd
This festival isn’t just for adults; Quoz Arts Fest has also curated a dedicated Kids’ Lane. Families can look forward to interactive art workshops, reading sessions, and community activations led by groups like Artful Minds and The Junction, ensuring that young, curious minds have plenty to engage with.
What The Food by Alserkal
No arts festival is complete without a spectacular food experience, and What The Food by Alserkal is set to deliver. Dubai’s top chefs, artisanal producers, and innovative food entrepreneurs will be on hand, serving a variety of delicious bites throughout the weekend, providing festival-goers with a culinary adventure amidst all the artistic creativity.
Gather your friends, family, and fellow art enthusiasts—Quoz Arts Fest 2025 promises to be an unforgettable weekend filled with creativity, culture, and community in the heart of Dubai’s thriving arts scene. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this extraordinary cultural festival!
You might also be interested in:
- 31 awesome things to do in January
- Performers confirmed for the two-day event include Big Hass, Marsimba, and Usha Jey.
- Artwork includes an interactive installation from Yuri Suzuki, the disappearing art show by Gulf Photo Plus, as well as film screenings from Reel Palestine and Cinema Akil.
- All-day markets run by Reel Palestine Souk, Kave Market of Misfits, and QAF Retail Lane.
- Culinary delights from around the globe, including street food, vegan cuisine, and decadent desserts.
Dhs63. Saturday, January 25 – Sunday, January 26, 10 AM – 11:30 PM. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, alserkal.online.
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