UAE art guide: 12 exhibitions to see, from Spectrum at Manarat Al Saadiyat to orange art at Ayyam Gallery

Ansar Mall has announced plans to move its operations from Sharjah to Abu Dhabi and Dubai, marking a strategic shift in its retail presence within the United Arab Emirates. According to multiple reports, the company intends to open new stores in these two major cities, signaling a broader expansion strategy. This relocation comes amid ongoing developments in the UAE's commercial and cultural sectors, which have been experiencing steady growth. The decision to relocate follows a period of evaluation and planning by Ansar Mall's management team. While specific reasons for the move were not detailed in the reports, industry analysts suggest that the shift could be influenced by market dynamics, consumer behavior trends, and the availability of prime retail locations in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. These cities are known for their robust economies, high foot traffic, and well-established shopping environments, making them attractive destinations for retail expansion. The relocation will involve the closure of existing stores in Sharjah, though the exact timeline for this transition has yet to be disclosed. Ansar Mall has not released further details regarding the number of new stores or their specific locations within Abu Dhabi and Dubai. However, the company has indicated that the new outlets will maintain the brand's signature offerings and customer service standards. In addition to the retail sector, the UAE continues to showcase its vibrant cultural scene through a series of art exhibitions taking place across the country. These events highlight the region's commitment to fostering creativity and artistic expression. Among the notable exhibitions is "Seeing Ourselves," a student-led photography exhibition organized by the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation in collaboration with Zayed University. This initiative brings together Emirati students who document their experiences of the UAE through various forms of photography, offering fresh perspectives on the nation's landscapes, architecture, and people. Another prominent exhibition is "Spectrum: Becoming Visible, Becoming Image" at Manarat Al Saadiyat, which features the work of the fourth cohort of the Photographer-in-Residence Programme. This program, mentored by photography expert Jassem Rabee Al Awadi, includes contributions from both local and international artists. The exhibition explores themes such as identity, memory, and materiality through a variety of mediums, including photography, video, sculpture, and mixed-media installations. It underscores Abu Dhabi's role as a hub for cross-cultural artistic exchange and innovation. Meanwhile, in Sharjah, the "Body Quotidian" exhibition at the Sharjah Art Foundation presents recent works by artists Laila Majid and Inaam Zafar, examining the relationship between individuals and urban environments. The exhibition invites viewers to consider how daily behaviors and interactions contribute to shaping cityscapes and personal identities. These exhibitions collectively reflect the dynamic nature of the UAE's art scene, which continues to attract attention from both local and international audiences. As part of the broader cultural calendar, they provide opportunities for engagement, education, and appreciation of diverse artistic practices. The relocation of Ansar Mall and the ongoing art exhibitions illustrate the multifaceted developments occurring in the UAE. From economic shifts in the retail sector to the flourishing of the arts, these events highlight the nation's continued evolution and its position as a key player in the global marketplace and cultural landscape.