We premiered three new outdoor installations at the second edition of Manar Abu Dhabi, the landmark outdoor light-art festival organised by the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). Curated under the theme “The Light Compass”, this edition of Manar will light up the city from 15 November 2025 to 4 January 2026 with free entry.
DRIFT’s contribution includes three major new works – Unfold, Whispers, and a newly developed drone performance titled Wind of Change – installed on Jubail Island. The natural setting of mangroves, tidal water-ways and shifting light becomes the canvas for DRIFT’s exploration of the intersection of technology, human presence and the environment.
Leading up to the festival, The Abu Dhabi EDITION Hotel, the home of DRIFT’s permanent installation In 20 Steps, graciously hosted an evening to celebrate DRIFT in Abu Dhabi. The evening was a warm celebration of connection, conversation, and excitement as the artists revealed the new works for the festival.
About Manar Abu Dhabi
Manar (Arabic for “lighthouse” or “guiding light”) is a major public art initiative by DCT Abu Dhabi that transforms the city’s natural vistas with a series of light sculptures, projections, and immersive artworks by local and international artists.
This edition is curated by Khai Hori (artistic director), Alia Zaal Lootah, Munira Al Sayegh (curators) and Mariam Alshehhi (assistant curator).
Photos by Arjen van Eijk, Xinix Films.
Special thanks to AO Multimedia & Drones for the collaboration on Wind of Change.
