From heritage tours to Michelin-starred meals, this year’s arts festival is bigger, bolder and more exciting than ever.
Ras Al Khaimah might be best known for its beaches and mountains, but every winter, the quiet streets of Al Jazeera Al Hamra turn into something else entirely. From 16 January to 8 February, the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival returns, bringing colour, conversation and creativity to one of the UAE’s oldest heritage sites.
This year’s theme is Civilizations, with over 100 artists from nearly 50 countries reflecting on how cultures evolve, influence and reimagine each other. The theme comes to life through contemporary art, live music, film screenings and performances, all staged throughout the heritage village’s courtyards, alleyways and historic homes. A standout addition this year is the launch of the Ras Al Khaimah Contemporary Art Biennale, a curated exhibition layered with multimedia work, digital experiments and stories passed down or imagined forward.
But it’s not just about art. The Hidden Table brings a different kind of creativity to the village, with a rotating line-up of international chefs serving intimate dinners under the stars. Expect open-fire cooking, storytelling-led menus and dishes inspired by memory and place.
Workshops and walking tours run throughout, offering the chance to get hands-on or dig deeper into the heritage of the pearling village. And with themed weekends including family-friendly and global culture editions, there’s always something new to explore.
Across four themed weekends, the festival offers something for everyone. The Opening Weekend sets the tone with live performances, artist previews and the launch of The Hidden Table, where visiting chefs, including Michelin-starred talent from Restaurant Pine, bring storytelling to the plate. The Family and Pet Friendly Weekend brings a more laid-back pace with activities for all ages. Around the World Weekend spotlights global creativity through cross-cultural performances and international flavours. The final Cultural Weekend wraps it all up with poetry, heritage-focused programming and thoughtful conversation.
Entry to the festival is free, with select experiences, performances and dining events ticketed individually. Full details and bookings are available at www.rakart.ae.
DSCVR: Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 Festival, Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, RAK. 16 January to 8 February. www.rakart.ae @rakartfestival
