Dubai hosts countless events each year. However, very few blend culture, history, and creativity as seamlessly as the Sikka Art & Design Festival. In 2026, the festival returns to the Al Shindagha Historic District, continuing its role as one of Dubai’s most established cultural platforms. Organised by Dubai Culture, Sikka forms a core part of Dubai Art Season, alongside Art Dubai and other citywide initiatives.
The festival will be held from January 23 to February 1, with daily programming spread across restored heritage houses, courtyards, and alleyways. Entry remains free, making it one of the most accessible large-scale art events in the city.
In this guide, we will explore:
- What Is the Sikka Art & Design Festival?
- Why Al Shindagha continues to define the festival
- Location and how to get there
- What to Expect at Sikka Art & Design 2026
- Artist participation and open calls in 2026
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
What Is the Sikka Art & Design Festival?
The Sikka Art & Design Festival is organised by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and a member of the Dubai Council.
Launched in 2011 as the Sikka Art Fair, the festival began as a platform for visual artists. Over time, it expanded. Today, it embraces design, film, performance, digital media, culinary arts, and public programming.
In 2026, Sikka will be held from January 23 to February 1 and focuses on:
- Supporting UAE and GCC-based artists
- Showcasing emerging and mid-career talent
- Encouraging public interaction with art
- Using heritage architecture as exhibition space
The name “Sikka” comes from the Arabic word for alleyway, a direct reference to how visitors move through the festival. There is no single entrance or central hall. Instead, the experience unfolds gradually as you walk.
This format is intentional. It removes barriers and makes art feel part of daily life rather than something separate from it.
Why Al Shindagha continues to define the festival
The Al Shindagha Historic District is not just a venue; it is a defining element of the Sikka Art Festival. Located along Dubai Creek, Al Shindagha includes:
- Restored courtyard houses
- Traditional wind towers (barjeels)
- Narrow sikkas connecting clusters of homes
- Museums and cultural spaces operated by Dubai Culture
During Sikka, these spaces host:
- Dozens of exhibition rooms
- Outdoor installations and murals
- Performance stages
- Workshop areas
On that note, let’s check out the exact location of the festival and how you can get there.
Location
Al Shindagha Historic District, Dubai Creek, Dubai, UAE
How to Get to Sikka Art & Design Festival
Getting to the festival is convenient, with various transportation options available:
- By Metro: The nearest station is Al Ghubaiba Metro Station, which is a short 10-minute walk to Al Shindagha.
- By Taxi: RTA taxis can be booked via the Careem app or by calling +971 4 208 0808.
- By Car: The closest public parking is available on Khaleej Street.
Public transport is strongly recommended during evenings and weekends.
What to Expect at Sikka Art & Design 2026
Sikka Art & Design Festival has grown steadily over the years. Recent editions have recorded six-figure visitor numbers, reflecting its appeal to both residents and tourists.
In Sikka Art Festival 2026, visitors can expect:
- Hundreds of artworks across multiple disciplines
- Participation from several hundred UAE and GCC-based artists
- Programming spread across multiple heritage houses and courtyards
- A mix of daytime workshops and evening performances
Admission
- General entry: Free
- Exhibitions and installations: Free
- Workshops: Mostly free, registration required
- Select dining or performances: Ticketed
Art installations and exhibitions
Visual art remains the backbone of Sikka Festival. Installations are distributed across the district rather than grouped in one place.
Common formats include:
- Paintings and mixed-media works inside heritage homes
- Sculptural installations in open courtyards
- Large-scale murals, many created specifically for the festival
- Digital and multimedia works combining sound, projection, and motion
Live performances and entertainment
Live performances usually begin in the late afternoon and continue into the evening. Performances at Sikka Art Festival typically include:
- Live music sets by solo artists and small ensembles
- Dance and movement-based performances
- Theatre and experimental stage work
- Poetry readings and spoken-word sessions
Workshops and hands-on sessions
Workshops are one of Sikka’s most popular features. In recent editions, the festival has hosted hundreds of workshops and talks over the full run.
In 2026, workshop topics are expected to include:
- Painting, drawing, and illustration
- Photography and short filmmaking
- Digital art and emerging media
- Pottery, crafts, and tactile design
- Culinary arts and food experimentation
Key points to know:
- Most workshops are free
- Advance registration is usually required
- Sessions are available for adults and children
- Materials are often provided on-site
Film screenings and narrative-based programming
Film remains a consistent part of Sikka’s programme. Screenings usually feature:
- Short films by regional filmmakers
- Documentaries exploring culture and identity
- Experimental and artist-led video works
Many screenings are followed by:
- Q&A sessions
- Informal discussions with creators
- Panel conversations in small groups
These sessions are typically held in intimate indoor spaces rather than large cinemas, which keeps the experience conversational.
Food, drink, and curated dining experiences
Food is not an afterthought at Sikka Festival 2026. Culinary programming has expanded noticeably in recent editions.
Visitors can now find:
- Local food and beverage pop-ups
- Coffee concepts by homegrown brands
- Casual street-style dining options
- Curated dining experiences and limited-seat supper clubs
Some culinary experiences require advance booking. However, there are others available throughout the day for walk-in visitors.
Artist participation and open calls in 2026
Sikka continues to serve as a launchpad for regional creatives. Open calls are issued ahead of each edition.
Key participation criteria typically include:
- UAE or GCC-based artists
- Original, recently produced work, not previously exhibited at Sikka
- Preference for sustainable or low-impact materials
Accepted disciplines include:
- Visual arts
- Photography
- Sculpture
- Multimedia and digital art
- Murals
- Culinary arts
You can easily submit your application online on the official Dubai Culture website.
Key Takeaways
Sikka Art & Design Festival 2026 runs from January 23 to February 1 at Al Shindagha Historic District. Organised by Dubai Culture, it showcases UAE and GCC-based artists across visual arts, performance, film, and culinary experiences.
The festival is free, family-friendly, walkable, and fully accessible, making it one of Dubai’s most inclusive cultural events.
FAQs
No, general access to exhibits, installations and public spaces is free.
Most workshops are free but require pre-registration due to limited capacity.
Very family-friendly: lots of workshops, interactive art, and public spaces suitable for children.
Visitors can explore a variety of artworks, including:
– Visual arts
– Photography
– Sculpture
– Installations
– Murals
– Multimedia displays
Yes, the Al Shindagha Historic District is equipped to accommodate people of determination. It offers a wheelchair facility and dedicated PoD toilets.
