Dubai – 8 September 2026
A visit to Opera Gallery in Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) this week gave us an early look at what is coming next, with the gallery preparing to present a major retrospective of Emirati artist Abdulqader Al Rais.
The gallery confirmed during the visit that ‘Al Nayed’ will be open to visitors once the artworks have been fully installed and the gallery is ready for viewing. The exhibition is scheduled to run from 8 to 25 October 2026.
One of the founding figures of contemporary art in the UAE, Al Rais has developed an artistic practice spanning more than five decades, with his work reflecting the changing landscapes, architecture and cultural identity of the Emirates.
A look across five decades of Emirati art
‘Al Nayed’ is described by Opera Gallery as a major retrospective bringing together works from different stages of Al Rais’ career. The presentation follows the development of his artistic language, from early observational and impressionistic works to the geometric and spiritual abstraction associated with his later practice.
His work brings together elements of Islamic aesthetics, Arabic calligraphy, architecture and the UAE’s natural landscape, combining traditional references with modern abstraction. Geometry, including his distinctive square motifs, is also an important part of his visual language.
From landscapes to calligraphy and abstraction
Visitors can expect works from several significant series, including the Alghaf Series, inspired by the Ghaf tree and its symbolism of resilience and continuity.
The Calligraphy Series, or Hurufiyya, explores Arabic letters as visual forms, while the Impressionism Series revisits earlier depictions of Emirati landscapes and architecture through softer, atmospheric brushwork.
The presentation also includes the Alhaa Series of watercolours and the Abstract Series, where geometric forms and square motifs are incorporated into landscape-based compositions.
Opera Gallery says the presentation will also feature rare works from the artist’s private collection, alongside newly produced works created specifically for the exhibition.
An exhibition to look out for in DIFC
While the complete presentation was not yet ready to view during our visit, Al Nayed offers another reason to keep an eye on the art scene around DIFC’s Gate Village.
Once the installation is complete, visitors will be able to explore the different stages of Al Rais’ practice within the gallery setting.
With ‘Al Nayed’ opening on 8 October and continuing until 25 October 2026, the exhibition will offer an opportunity to discover the work of an artist whose career has developed alongside the UAE’s own cultural transformation.
