This Weekend Art Meets Engineering At Abu Dhabi Art Fair

by Dara Morgan

This Weekend Art Meets Engineering At Abu Dhabi Art Fair

22 Nov 2024

BMW Middle East has teamed up with Emirati designer Omar Al Gurg to create the Majlis Fann, a striking pavilion unveiled at the 16th edition of the Abu Dhabi Art Fair. Running from November 20 to 24, this one-of-a-kind installation celebrates local culture, modernist architecture, and BMW’s design ingenuity.

A pavilion that bridges art, design and technology

Designed in partnership with Abu Dhabi Motors, the pavilion draws inspiration from the UAE capital’s iconic brutalist landmarks. Its blend of arching forms, textured sand hues, and sleek metallic details showcases the harmonious intersection of tradition and cutting-edge aesthetics — a hallmark of BMW’s design ethos.

Beyond its physical allure, the pavilion serves as a buzzing hub for dialogue and exchange, hosting a series of talks, performances, and exclusive art previews. Whether you are an art enthusiast or a collector-in-training, this cultural space invites you to connect with the region’s vibrant art scene in the spirit of collaboration and creativity.

The visionary behind the pavilion

Omar Al Gurg, the creative mastermind behind Majlis Fann, is no stranger to sophisticated design (and to The Sandy Times — read our interview here). Renowned for his soulful furniture pieces, he is the founder of Modu Method — a contemporary furniture brand celebrated for its accessible, functional, and sustainable creations. Al Gurg’s work is deeply narrative, weaving storytelling with problem-solving, and often reflects his Arab heritage.

For the Majlis Fann, he draws on his admiration for Abu Dhabi’s architectural heritage, crafting a pavilion that balances futuristic elegance with cultural authenticity. The result is a space where modernist influences meet tradition.

Why Abu Dhabi deserves your weekend

And just one final reminder: after you discover the Abu Dhabi Art Fair with its array of global and regional talent, you can discover that the city has more in store this weekend. The Michelin Guide Food Festival, a celebration of culinary excellence, is another must-visit. From art to gastronomy and back — sounds like a weekend to remember.

by Dara Morgan