NOMAD Abu Dhabi 2026 - Everything you need to know
We brought you the news about Abu Dhabi’s old airport turning into an art and design exhibition at Terminal 1 from 18 to 22 November. Well now we have even more information about what you can expect inside.
This year’s NOMAD will bring more than 30 galleries to fill the former departure lounge and the tunnels that once led to the gates. And if you remember the striking green-tiled funnel at the centre of the old terminal, you’ll know the building has plenty of character of its own.
The second edition has a few new additions, too, including a collaboration with Emirati artisans, a pop-up restaurant by ERTH Abu Dhabi, and events at the hotel throughout the week.
Here’s what to know about this year’s fair
The line-up includes three galleries making their NOMAD debut. Maison Intègre from Burkina Faso will present its contemporary bronze furniture and objects in the UAE for the first time. Seoul-based Vein is also joining the fair, along with Mumbai’s ÆQUŌ Gallery, which commissions contemporary designers working with India’s artisanal traditions.
They’ll be joined by returning galleries, including Nilufar, Gallery FUMI, Carpenters Workshop Gallery, Galerie Gastou, Galerie BSL, and Rossana Orlandi. The AP Room and Iwan Maktabi + Don Tanani are also returning for a second year.
There’s a new collaboration between the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris and House of Artisans, too. The two are launching an annual programme exploring the relationship between contemporary design and Emirati craftsmanship.
The first project will see Abdel Al Tayeb, recipient of the 2026 IMA Design Award, work with Emirati master artisans on a large-scale installation created specifically for NOMAD Abu Dhabi.
House of Artisans and Irthi will also present new projects, while Design Commission Abu Dhabi will make its first presentation at the fair.
ERTH Abu Dhabi is joining the programme
ERTH Abu Dhabi is also joining the programme this year. You can head to the hotel for breakfasts, dinners, and evening gatherings throughout the week, or grab a bite at its pop-up restaurant inside Terminal 1 while exploring the fair.
Where: Terminal 1, Old Abu Dhabi International Airport, Ad Diyafah Street
When: 18 to 22 November 2026
More info here
