From 18 to 22 November 2026, Terminal 1 of the Old Abu Dhabi International Airport will host the second edition of NOMAD Abu Dhabi, bringing more than 50 exhibitors into one of the capital’s most recognisable architectural landmarks. Designed by French architect Paul Andreu, commissioned in 1974 and completed in 1982, the terminal represents an important chapter in the architectural development of the UAE. Its transformation into a setting for contemporary art and collectible design introduces a new purpose to a building originally conceived as a gateway to the world.
The international programme includes Nilufar, Galleria Rossana Orlandi, Carpenters Workshop Gallery, Gallery FUMI and Galerie Gastou, alongside a growing representation of galleries and design practices from the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. Four former private departure gates will accommodate presentations by A2Z, Nilufar, Gallery FUMI and Galerie Gastou, establishing a direct relationship between the architecture and the works on display.
Among the participating galleries, Mumbai based ÆQUŌ explores the possibilities of contemporary Indian craftsmanship, while Maison Intègre, making its Abu Dhabi debut, presents bronze furniture and objects produced in collaboration with artisans in Burkina Faso. Both reflect a growing interest in design practices that place traditional knowledge at the centre of contemporary production.
Regional craftsmanship occupies an equally prominent position. Irthi Contemporary Crafts Council and SUPER LOOP present a collaboration informed by Emirati Talli weaving, translating traditional textile techniques into contemporary design. Bahrain’s MATTAR draws upon generations of expertise in natural pearls, while Gallery Gradient, Le Lab, PIK’D and The AP Room contribute further perspectives on material experimentation and contemporary artistic production.
Other presentations include Iwan Maktabi’s collaboration with Don Tanani and a furniture project bringing together Tarek Shamma and Polimeno.
Beyond the galleries, a new partnership between Abu Dhabi’s House of Artisans and the Institut du Monde Arabe in Paris introduces an annual programme connecting Emirati craftsmanship with contemporary design. Its inaugural commission brings designer Abdel El Tayeb together with Emirati master artisans to develop a large scale installation conceived specifically for the fair.
The choice of Terminal 1 is particularly relevant to this edition. Once an emblem of Abu Dhabi’s international connectivity, the building now provides a setting in which established design galleries and emerging regional practices can be considered together. NOMAD Abu Dhabi offers a perspective on contemporary collectible design that extends beyond individual objects to examine the cultural knowledge, materials and processes behind their production.
NOMAD Abu Dhabi 2026
Terminal 1, Old Abu Dhabi Airport
18–22 November 2026
