Coronavirus forces Art Dubai 2020 postponement

Originally scheduled to open on March 28, 2020, the 14th edition of Art Dubai has been postponed.

A statement jointly signed by Benedict Floyd, CEO; Pablo del Val, Artistic Director; and Chloe Vaitsou, International Director announced plans for what is described “as new Dubai-focused programme in its place.”

Explaining the postponement, the organisers stated: “In consideration of the on-going global health implications of the Coronavirus and having consulted with our partners and stakeholders, Art Dubai today announces that the 14th edition of the international art fair, scheduled for March 25 to 28, 2020, will be postponed.” 

They noted that the essential role the fair plays in promoting local and regional artists would not make the already scheduled dates go without any events. “We have made the decision to stage a programme tailored to the local cultural community instead, including existing fair programme contributors and thought-leaders,” the statement added.

“The new format is planned to run on the same dates, and will present events, exhibitions, talks and strands of the existing Art Dubai programme.”

Listed in the programmes are local and regional gallery presentations, Global Art Forum, Residents and Campus Art Dubai. “The goals and ambitions for this re-configured programme maintain our objective to deliver commercial, institutional and critical engagement with Dubai’s art ecosystem – a commitment of support to our local community that we felt an imperative to uphold.”
 
However, an assurance of further details of the programme has been given. For those who may be attending the announced programmes, an advice was issued: “With Dubai deploying the strictest medical and hygiene protocols, we will welcome international visitors in March, recommending that individuals follow advice from the authorities of their resident countries.”