Art Smiley Gallery has opened its first physical space in Dubai’s Al Quoz 2, launching with the inaugural exhibition “Global Art Odyssey Where Art Meets the World!” on 5 September. The event marks a significant step for the gallery, which has operated for eight years, by combining a traditional gallery experience with a continued digital presence.
The opening ceremony attracted several distinguished guests, including Khalil Abdul Wahid, Fine Art Director from the Dubai Culture Authority, and prominent Emirati artist Ahmed Al Awadhi. Other notable attendees were Laila Rahhal El Atfani, a celebrity guest and Crown Senator for the Royal House of Queen Sheba, and Sultana Faroua Kazim, the Global Ambassador for UNESCO IAA.
A Confluence of Cultures
The “Global Art Odyssey” exhibition, which runs until 5 October 2025, presents a varied collection of paintings, sculptures, photography, and installations. The show features the work of 35 artists from 16 different nationalities, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Lebanon, Nigeria, Spain, and Italy. The collection spans a range of styles, from contemporary and abstract to traditional and figurative art.
During the launch, the gallery also formally recognised the participating artists, presenting them with gifts to acknowledge their contributions to the exhibition.
Lurdh Allam, co-founder and chief executive officer of Art Smiley, commented on the successful opening. “The overwhelming support from government officials and the artistic community during our opening night demonstrates the vital role that Art Smiley plays in Dubai’s cultural ecosystem,” he said. “Having esteemed representatives join us for this milestone validates our eight-year journey to create meaningful connections between artists and audiences across cultures.”
A Hybrid Approach
A key feature of the exhibition is its hybrid format. Visitors can view the artworks in person at the new Al Quoz 2 location or experience them virtually through the gallery’s upgraded website. This dual approach aims to make the collection accessible to both local patrons and a global audience.
Visual artist Diana Bakoush shared her enthusiasm for the event on Instagram, stating: “I’m delighted to be part of Global Art Odyssey Hybrid Exhibition at the Grand Opening of ArtSmiley Art Gallery… Congratulations to Art Smiley on the exquisitely organised exhibition, featuring exceptional artists worldwide, and on their new gallery.”
The gallery’s new location in Al Quoz 2 places it within Dubai’s established arts district. The opening is part of a wider expansion strategy that includes entering the Saudi Arabian and Qatari markets and launching its marketplace platform in the United States and Europe.
Allam sees the Dubai gallery as a foundation for future growth. “The support we received from our prominent guests and the artistic community opens doors for expanded collaboration and cultural exchange, contributing to Dubai’s growing reputation as a global cultural destination,” he added.