He United Arab Emirates, known for its dynamic and flourishing cultural scene, has once again placed itself in the global spotlight with the inauguration of the 40th annual exhibition of the Emirates Fine Arts Society (EFAS). Held at the Sharjah Art Museum, this year’s edition opened on Tuesday evening under the patronage of Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi, Chairman of the Sharjah Ruler’s Office. As the exhibition doors opened, the museum welcomed artists, curators, critics, and art enthusiasts from across the country and beyond, uniting them in a celebration of creativity and heritage.
This landmark event is not merely an exhibition but a vibrant reflection of the UAE’s ongoing dedication to cultural growth and visual expression. As the Emirates Fine Arts Society marks its fourth decade, the event is being recognized as an important cultural moment that bridges generations, fosters dialogue, and illustrates the continuous evolution of fine arts in the region.
Sharjah’s Cultural Commitment Deepens With Annual Art Exhibition
Sharjah, often referred to as the cultural capital of the UAE, has consistently invested in supporting the arts. The 40th edition of the EFAS exhibition builds upon a long-standing tradition of artistic appreciation, community involvement, and public engagement. The presence of Sheikh Salem bin Abdulrahman Al Qasimi at the opening ceremony underscores the Emirate’s commitment to fostering creativity and preserving the cultural legacy of the UAE.
During his tour, Sheikh Salem explored a wide range of artworks and personally engaged with many of the participating artists. His presence not only added gravitas to the event but also created an environment in which artists could share their inspirations, techniques, and artistic narratives. The diverse mediums presented in the exhibition—spanning photography, sculpture, installation, painting, ceramics, and mixed media—offered a broad overview of the contemporary art scene in the UAE and reflected both traditional influences and innovative experimentation.
Forty Years of Artistic Dialogue and Collective Expression
Since its inception, the Emirates Fine Arts Society has functioned as a crucial platform for artists in the UAE. Founded to support visual artists and to develop a local art ecosystem, EFAS has played a pivotal role in nurturing talents and introducing Emirati art to wider audiences. Over the last forty years, its annual exhibition has evolved into a vital cultural tradition, recognized for encouraging creative freedom and artistic exploration.
The 2025 edition of the exhibition continues this legacy. Featuring 50 participating artists, it reflects a rich mosaic of personal stories, cultural reflections, and societal commentaries. The inclusion of pioneering figures from the early days of the Emirati art movement alongside emerging and mid-career artists creates a unique opportunity for cross-generational interaction. Moreover, the presence of Arab and international artists adds further layers of depth and global relevance, showcasing Sharjah’s role as a global meeting point for the arts.
Creative Diversity Represented Through Mediums and Perspectives
One of the defining features of this year’s exhibition is the sheer variety of artistic expressions. Visitors to the Sharjah Art Museum are met with a visual feast that includes oil and watercolour paintings, experimental installation pieces, sculptures crafted with precision, and innovative uses of acrylics and ceramics. These works reflect not only the creative versatility of the artists but also the thematic richness of the exhibition.
Themes such as identity, memory, heritage, urban life, nature, and abstract contemplation are presented through multiple visual languages. Some pieces speak directly to cultural heritage and nostalgia, while others venture into conceptual and avant-garde territory. This blend of the familiar and the novel creates an atmosphere that encourages viewers to reflect on their own relationship with art, culture, and society.
Collaboration Strengthens Foundations of This Year’s Exhibition
The success of the 40th EFAS annual exhibition is the result of collaborative efforts between various cultural institutions in Sharjah. Organised by the Emirates Fine Arts Society in partnership with the Department of Culture, the Sharjah Museum Authority, and the Sharjah Art Foundation, the event benefits from a rich ecosystem of institutional support. These entities have each played a unique role in facilitating artist engagement, curatorial direction, and public outreach.
A selection committee comprised of seasoned artists and cultural practitioners—including Khalil Abdulwahid, Dr. Karima Al Shomely, Salma Al Marri, and Dr. Mohammed Yousif, the current chairman of the society—ensured that the final list of artworks reflected both quality and diversity. Their curatorial vision emphasized balance between tradition and innovation, resulting in an exhibition that appeals to a broad audience while maintaining intellectual and aesthetic integrity.
Sharjah as a Nurturer of Regional and Global Artistic Talent
Sharjah’s consistent role in promoting arts and culture has helped position it as a leading city in the region’s creative scene. The Sharjah Art Museum, with its world-class facilities and long history of hosting important exhibitions, continues to act as a cornerstone for artistic discourse in the UAE. Events like the EFAS exhibition contribute to this legacy, reinforcing the Emirate’s reputation as a destination for artists, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts.
The inclusion of international participants in the 2025 edition of the EFAS exhibition is particularly noteworthy. By inviting artists from various parts of the Arab world and beyond, the event not only promotes cross-cultural dialogue but also strengthens the global relevance of the UAE’s art movement. These exchanges foster understanding, respect, and creative inspiration, enhancing the richness of the local scene and allowing Emirati artists to find their place within a larger global narrative.
Audience Engagement and the Role of Art in Public Life
Another remarkable aspect of this year’s event is the high level of public participation. The exhibition has drawn interest from a diverse audience, including families, students, educators, researchers, and tourists. This wide appeal reflects the accessibility of the artworks and the inclusive spirit of the event. Special tours, artist talks, and workshops further enrich the visitor experience, offering insights into creative processes and the meanings behind selected works.
The public engagement around the EFAS exhibition demonstrates the powerful role that art can play in everyday life. Beyond aesthetics and technique, the works on display serve as mediums for social reflection, historical remembrance, and future imagination. In doing so, they strengthen cultural literacy and foster a deeper appreciation for the importance of creativity in building inclusive, thoughtful communities.
Looking Ahead While Honouring the Past
As the Emirates Fine Arts Society celebrates forty years of uninterrupted commitment to the visual arts, the 2025 exhibition stands as both a reflection of past achievements and a blueprint for the future. It honours the artists who laid the foundation of the UAE’s art scene, celebrates the talents of today’s creators, and opens doors for the next generation of visionaries.
The event also reflects broader regional trends in art and culture. Across the Arab world, institutions and governments are increasingly recognizing the value of the arts in shaping identity, boosting education, and contributing to economic and social development. Sharjah’s long-standing leadership in this area serves as a valuable model for sustainable cultural investment.
Sharjah’s Ongoing Legacy in Arts and Culture
The 40th annual exhibition of the Emirates Fine Arts Society at the Sharjah Art Museum is a landmark event that reflects the enduring vitality of the UAE’s art scene. By bringing together tradition and innovation, local and international perspectives, and established names alongside fresh talent, the exhibition encapsulates the diverse spirit of the nation’s artistic journey.
Sharjah’s dedication to culture continues to shine through events like this, reinforcing its position as an essential player in the development of the arts both regionally and internationally. As visitors continue to explore the compelling works on display, the legacy of the Emirates Fine Arts Society grows stronger—forty years of creativity, collaboration, and cultural expression, and many more to come.
