Bluewaters Presents First-Ever Art Festival: A Celebration of Creativity, Culture and Community

Bluewaters Dubai, one of the city’s prominent waterfront destinations, is set to electrify the city’s cultural calendar with the launch of its inaugural Bluewaters Art Festival, taking place from April 12th to 20th, 2025. Centered around the theme ‘Reconnect’, this week-long celebration will immerse visitors in over 20 awe-inspiring murals, interactive installations, live performances, and hands-on workshops, all designed to transform the island into a vibrant open-air gallery. The festival will run daily from 4:00 PM to midnight daily. 

Bringing together 23 visionary artists from the UAE, Türkiye, New York, the UK, and beyond, the festival aims to bridge cultures, generations, and perspectives through art. In perfect alignment with its theme, ‘Reconnect’, this creative gathering invites visitors to explore a shared visual language through dynamic installations, thought-provoking sculptures, and sensory experiences that turn Bluewaters into a canvas of collective expression.

The event will present a rich tapestry of artistic expression, featuring striking murals, intricate fabric installations, and large-scale inflatable art. Visitors can also explore immersive installations, thought-provoking outdoor sculptures, and multidisciplinary indoor exhibits —offering a truly dynamic and diverse art experience across the island. As Dubai’s art scene continues to flourish, this festival positions Bluewaters as a key player in this creative landscape.

Adding further depth, a curated gallery experience will spotlight the works of seven featured artists, creating a dynamic art trail that spans the island. Highlights include Areen Hassan, whose sensory installations reflect her Palestinian heritage, and Kaveh Ahanger, whose digital murals and string art will create visually stunning connections between Bluewaters’ structures. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to explore exciting gallery spaces such as Kanvas Room, featuring dynamic light installations and interactive immersive art. Collaborations with Firetti Gallery and Studio 13 will showcase multidisciplinary exhibits, offering fresh, global perspectives on contemporary art.

Workshops, Performances & Family Fun

The festival’s weekend programming on April 12–13 and April 19–20 will bring Bluewaters to life with an exciting mix of hands-on workshops, immersive art talks, live music, and interactive performances for all ages.

Visitors can look forward to:

• Kids Fluid Bear Painting – 4:00 PM at The Wharf (45 mins)
• Adult Air Dry Clay Art – 4:00 PM at The Wharf (60 mins)
• Art Talks – 5:00 PM at Kanvas Immersive Room (60 mins)
  • April 12: The Importance of Public Art and Being an Artist in the UAE – Studio 13
  • April 13: New Dimensions: Art, Technology & Immersive Experiences – Kanvas Dubai
  • April 19: Art & Resilience: Creativity as a Healing Journey – Firetti Gallery
  • April 20: Speaker TBC
• Kids Tote Bag Painting – 5:15 PM at The Wharf (60 mins)
• Adult Canvas Painting – 5:30 PM at The Wharf (60 mins)
• Shadow Cutter – 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM at The Avenue (120 mins on April 12, 13, and 20)
• Speed Painter – 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM at The Avenue (April 13 only)
• Expression Art – Canvas Roll – 7:00 PM at The Wharf (90 mins)
• Live Music Performances at The Avenue:
  • April 12: Leone? Murphy – 6:00 PM, 8:30 PM, 10:30 PM
  • April 13: Tonatiut Zardon – 6:00 PM, 8:30 PM, 10:30 PM
  • April 19: The Gypsy Swing – 6:00 PM, 8:30 PM, 10:30 PM
  • April 20: Medhat Mamdouh – 6:00 PM, 8:30 PM, 10:30 PM

To participate in workshops, visitors simply need to spend AED 150 or more at any Bluewaters venue and present their receipt at the entrance. All activities are offered on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring a lively, inclusive atmosphere.

Beyond the main festival program, select dining spots across Bluewaters are offering unique creative experiences to complement the artistic atmosphere. Ribambelle invites guests to get creative with ceramic mug painting and phone case decorating, perfect for both kids and adults.  At The Pods, visitors can join an inspiring art flower masterclass or take part in décor-focused sessions, with exclusive giveaways up for grabs. For something more intimate, Pastamamma will be hosting community-driven gatherings that blend food, art, and connection. 

Getting There

Reaching the Bluewaters Art Festival is easy, with convenient parking facilities and easy access by car or foot.  Upon arrival, visitors will find an on-ground map that clearly highlights all festival locations and key installations. Strategically placed signs and handy booklet maps will further guide guests through the island, ensuring a smooth and immersive journey across the art-filled landscape.

Beyond the festival, Bluewaters offers a vibrant lifestyle experience with over 30 restaurants, more than 30 retail outlets, a variety of services, and entertainment venues. Whether you’re in the mood for an indulgent meal at Clay, Besar, or VYNL, or looking to shop and unwind, the island has something for everyone—making it a vibrant all-day destination.

For real-time festival highlights and updates, follow @BluewatersDubai on Instagram.