The Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival is set to return in 2025, marking its 13th edition as the region’s premier celebration of arts and culture. This year’s festival, sponsored by Aldar, promises a renewed energy of creativity, showcasing works by over 100 artists alongside an immersive programme of thought-provoking discussions, interactive workshops, art and heritage tours, films, and authentic cultural experiences. The festival will open on January 31, 2025, in the historic Al Jazirah Al Hamra Heritage Village, the last remaining pearl diving village in the UAE, offering a perfect blend of creativity and tradition.
Under the supervision of Alfio Tommasini, the 2025 edition adopts the theme of “Memory”, inviting visitors to explore how the past shapes the present and directs the future. The festival encourages a deep dive into collective and personal memories tied to places, people, experiences, or stories. From large-scale installations and cinematic narratives to heritage-inspired culinary adventures, this year’s event celebrates the power of remembrance and reinvention, showcasing the connections between artists, audiences, and communities. It also highlights Ras Al Khaimah as a global center for artistic expression, embracing its identity as a “land of prospect” and a hidden gem of adventure, history, and culture.
A standout addition to the 2025 festival is the Memory Gallery, located in Area C near the Ahmed Bin Omran House. Here,visitors can admire a curated selection of artwork from past festival winners. Another highlight is the Self-Reflective Garden of Memories, featuring a modern art installation called the “House of Light”. This piece reflects the village’s old homes, blending history, architecture, and contemporary experiences, symbolically rehabilitating the village by integrating ancient memories with present-day narratives.
For food enthusiasts, the festival offers two exclusive culinary experiences. The “Billy of the Beast” dinner, led by Chef Anushka Horn and Chef Neil Swart, is a one-night-only event on March 1, 2025. This South African-inspired tasting menu features sustainable and seasonal ingredients.Additionally, the popular Antica Australis pop-up restaurant returns for its third year, led by Paolo and Kelly Becarazzi. Known for its Cucciaria dining experience, the restaurant offers a unique menu of five Italian-Emirati dishes crafted from local organic ingredients, solidifying its reputation as one of Australia’s top regional restaurants.
The festival’s program is designed to celebrate the rich heritage of Ras Al Khaimah,featuring live performances,workshops,and cultural experiences. This year’s theme of “Memory” not only praises its beauty but also invites artists and visitors on a journey of contemplation,healing,and communication.
| Key Highlights of Ras Al Khaimah art Festival 2025 |
|——————————————————–|
| Dates: January 31 – March 1, 2025 |
| Location: Al Jazirah Al Hamra Heritage Village |
| Theme: Memory |
| Artists: 100+ |
| New Features: Memory Gallery, House of Light |
| Culinary experiences: Billy of the Beast, Antica Australis |
Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in a celebration of art, culture, and memory. For more details, visit the official Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival page and explore the full program. Share your thoughts and experiences using the hashtag #RAKArt2025 and join the conversation about this unforgettable cultural event.
Exploring the 2025 Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival: A Party of Memory, Creativity, and Culture
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The Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival is set to return in 2025 for its 13th edition, solidifying its position as the UAE’s premier celebration of arts and culture. Sponsored by Aldar, this year’s festival promises an immersive experience featuring over 100 artists, thought-provoking discussions, interactive workshops, and authentic cultural experiences. Set against the backdrop of the historic Al Jazirah Al Hamra Heritage village, the festival will run from January 31 to March 1, 2025, blending creativity with tradition. Under the theme of “Memory”, curated by Alfio Tommasini, the event invites visitors to explore how the past shapes the present and future. To delve deeper into this cultural extravaganza, we sat down with Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori, a renowned art historian and cultural consultant, to discuss the festival’s highlights and significance.
The Theme of “Memory”: A Journey Through Time
Senior Editor: Dr. Layla, the theme of this year’s festival is “Memory.” Can you tell us more about how this theme will be reflected in the festival’s programming?
Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori: Absolutely. The theme of “Memory” is incredibly powerful as it resonates on both a personal and collective level.the festival will explore how memories—whether tied to places, people, or experiences—shape our identities and futures. Visitors can expect large-scale installations, cinematic narratives, and even culinary experiences that evoke nostalgia and heritage. Such as, the Self-Reflective Garden of Memories features a stunning installation called the “House of light,” which reflects the village’s historic homes while integrating contemporary art. It’s a beautiful metaphor for how the past and present coexist.
The Memory Gallery: Honoring Past Achievements
Senior Editor: One of the new additions this year is the Memory Gallery. What can visitors expect to see ther?
Dr. Layla Al-mansoori: The Memory Gallery is a splendid addition because it pays homage to the festival’s rich history. located near the Ahmed Bin Omran House, it will showcase a curated selection of artworks from past festival winners. It’s a space where visitors can reflect on the evolution of the festival and appreciate the contributions of artists who have shaped its legacy. It’s also a reminder of how art can preserve and reinterpret memories over time.
Culinary Experiences: A Feast for the Senses
senior Editor: The festival is also known for its unique culinary offerings. Could you tell us more about the dining experiences this year?
Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori: Certainly! Food is such an integral part of culture, and this year’s festival offers two standout experiences. The first is the “Billy of the Beast” dinner, a one-night-only event on March 1, 2025, led by Chef Anushka Horn and Chef Neil Swart.It’s a South African-inspired tasting menu that emphasizes sustainability and seasonal ingredients. The second is the return of the Antica Australis pop-up restaurant, which offers a unique fusion of Italian and Emirati cuisine. Both experiences are designed to evoke memories and create new ones, making them a perfect complement to the festival’s theme.
Ras Al Khaimah: A Global Hub for Artistic Expression
Senior Editor: The festival also highlights Ras Al Khaimah as a center for artistic expression. How does this event contribute to the region’s cultural identity?
Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori: Ras Al Khaimah has always been a hidden gem,rich in history,adventure,and culture. The festival amplifies this by showcasing the region as a global hub for creativity. by hosting over 100 artists and offering a diverse program that includes workshops, performances, and heritage tours, the festival not only celebrates local culture but also fosters dialog between artists and audiences from around the world. It’s a testament to the region’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing innovation.
Final Thoughts: A Festival Not to Be Missed
Senior Editor: As we wrap up, what would you say to someone considering attending the 2025 Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival?
Dr. Layla Al-Mansoori: I would say this is an unmissable opportunity to immerse yourself in a celebration of art, culture, and memory. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a unique cultural experience, the festival offers somthing for everyone. It’s a chance to reflect on the past,engage with the present,and imagine the future—all in one of the most beautiful and historic settings in the UAE. Don’t forget to share yoru experiences using the hashtag #RAKArt2025 and join the global conversation about this incredible event.
For more details,visit the official Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival page and explore the full program.
