Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 Festival is now under way at Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. The festival runs until 8 February and features work from 106 artists representing 49 nationalities. Each weekend explores a different theme, with this year’s opening focus on ‘Civilizations’.
The festival enters its second weekend from 23 to 25 January with a programme designed for families and pet owners. Visitors can take part in workshops, tours, outdoor activities and live performances, all set within the historic village setting.
The Hidden Table
The second weekend continues with The Hidden Table, a series of dining experiences that combine food and art. On 23 and 24 January, guests can enjoy a Porto-inspired menu by Chef Tiago Pazzini from Chama. The experience features flame-grilled dishes served in an immersive setting.
Live performances and film
Music, talks and film screenings take place across the village throughout the festival. The second weekend opens with live performances from Grammy-nominated composer Roger Ryan, violin-led act Madam, and pop artist Maz.
The programme also includes a monologue performance titled Voices in the Dark by Alana Hicks. Other highlights include mime artist James SCARR, guitarist Khalifa Thani, and student showcases from RAK Academy. A speaker series will explore the future of museums and cultural storytelling. The weekend ends with an outdoor film screening under the night sky.
Family and pet activities
Families can join activities such as the Family Talent Show, where children and adults can perform music, dance, stories and creative acts. The Family Fun Walk offers free t-shirts and medals for the first 150 participants.
Pet owners can take part in the Best Pets Competition near The Fort. Categories include Best Grooming, Best Rescue and Best Tail-Wagger. Dog-friendly tours will run through the village, alongside training sessions and an agility course led by a K-9 Unit team.
Workshops and masterclasses
On Saturday 24 January, James SCARR will lead a Mime Masterclass. Participants will learn physical storytelling through movement and expression.
Other sessions include plaster tile making based on Islamic geometry and paper quilling workshops that turn paper strips into decorative designs.
Sunday’s programme features a 3D calligraphy class using paper, leather and wood. Guests can also join a block-printing workshop inspired by ancient civilisations to create patterned tote bags.
Ras Al Khaimah Art 2026 Festival offers open access to public areas and ticketed sessions with limited capacity. Visitors are encouraged to register in advance at www.rakart.ae.
When: From January 16th to February 8th
Where: Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village, Ras Al Khaimah
What: A month-long outdoor arts festival featuring exhibitions, performances, workshops, heritage tours, film screenings, and curated culinary experiences
Price: Experiences are priced individually
*For more information, please visit www.rakart.ae
