Things to do in Abu Dhabi for World Art Day - 15 April 2026

If you needed an excuse to tap into your creative side, this is it.

World Art Day is on 15 April and whether you are into world-famous exhibitions, hands-on workshops, or just a quieter moment with a coffee and a sketchbook, here is where to head for arty things to do in Abu Dhabi.

Picasso Comes to the Capital

Louvre Abu Dhabi is leading the charge this World Art Day with Picasso, the Figure, an exhibition that dives into the artist’s lifelong fascination with the human form.

Spanning more than 130 works across painting, sculpture, drawing and ceramics, it is a rare chance to see how Pablo Picasso evolved over a seven-decade career.

There is more to come too. On 25 April, the museum will host a screening of Young Picasso, exploring his early years across Málaga, Barcelona and Paris. If you are visiting with family, weekend art activities are running through to the end of June.

When: Until 31 May 2026

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, closed Mondays

Price: From AED 70, free for children

More info: Available via the museum website

Complimentary Art Workshops

Abu Dhabi Cultural Foundation is marking the occasion with a series of free workshops for both adults and children.

The 10 workshops range from painting and line drawing to ceramics and lino printing, it is a simple way to get hands-on without overthinking it.

Spaces can fill up quickly, so it is worth keeping an eye on their social channels for booking details.

When: 15 April 2026 | Various Timings

Price: Complimentary on a walk-in basis.

More info: Available via this leaflet

Therapie: Where Coffee Meets Creativity

Not every art experience needs to happen in a gallery.

Therapie Abu Dhabi, located in Mina Zayed, offers something a little different, blending coffee with a calm, creative space designed for reflection and expression.

If you have been meaning to slow things down, this is the kind of place where you can sit, switch off and maybe even pick up a brush.

Timings: 9am to 7pm Monday to Thursday, 9am to 8pm Friday to Sunday

More info: Via Instagram

421 Arts Campus: The Creative Core

For a deeper look at the city’s independent art scene, head to 421 Arts Campus in Mina Zayed (Previously known as Warehouse421).

Set within a repurposed warehouse, the space brings together galleries, studios, courtyards and community areas, making it one of the most accessible places to experience local and regional creativity.

It is the kind of place you can wander through without a plan and still leave inspired.

Timings: Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 8pm, closed Mondays

Price: Free to enter

More info: Available online

Arthouse Cafe: Create Something to Take Home

If you are after something more interactive, Arthouse Cafe Abu Dhabi keeps things relaxed with plate or mask painting sessions.

It is simple, creative, and you leave with something that is actually yours, along side grabbing a bite to eat while you're at it.

Don't forget to check out the gallery next door, which usually houses art from local artists.

Timings: Daily, 9am to 11pm

More info: Available online