Dubai exhibition reflects on Syria’s post-Assad transition 

Dubai exhibition reflects on Syria’s post-Assad transition 
This exhibition features the works of eight talented artists, photographers, sculptors and painters, who collectively explore the complex aftermath of more than a decade of civil war. (Supplied)
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Updated 01 March 2025

Dubai exhibition reflects on Syria’s post-Assad transition 

Dubai exhibition reflects on Syria’s post-Assad transition 
  • In ‘6:18, The DAWN,’ eight artists explore the aftermath of a bloody civil war and a brutal regime 

DUBAI: From Feb. 9 to March 2, Atelier 14 in Dubai will host “6:18, The DAWN,” a powerful collective exhibition that delves into the cultural and artistic landscape of the Syrian Arabic Republic following the fall of the former president, Bashar Assad.  

This exhibition features the works of eight talented artists, photographers, sculptors and painters, who collectively explore the complex aftermath of more than a decade of civil war. 

“6:18, The DAWN” provides a poignant insight into how art can reflect the scars and hopes of a country in transition.  




'Home' by Majd Henawi. (AN photo)

The exhibition is a platform for dialogue and reflection on the fragility of post-conflict societies and the struggle for identity. It is anchored in the tumultuous months following the fall of Assad’s regime and shows how, amid this chaos, art has remained an essential outlet for expression and renewal, charting the emotional and social evolution of a country now faced with the task of rebuilding both physically and spiritually, and depicting the tension between destruction and rebirth, chaos and renewal. 

One of the show’s standout features is the work of renowned French-Syrian photographer Ammar Abd Rabbo, known for his emotionally charged and politically moving work. He presents three photographs that capture the significant shift in Syria’s political and cultural landscape. They were taken in Damascus in December, just after the regime’s sudden collapse, and each image a unique perspective on those moments of upheaval. 

The first features two astronaut suits abandoned on a Damascus pavement.  




A charcoal artwork by Mohannad Orabi. (Supplied)

“These suits were left after an incident where citizens tried to steal items from the president’s residence, symbolizing the desperation of a population grappling with the aftermath of years of oppression,” Abd Rabbo told Arab News on opening night. “The photo captures a surreal scene.” 

The second shows a man holding the Syrian flag — a moment of both defiance and of hope for the future. The third depicts a group of people toppling a statue of Assad, a vivid representation of the collapse of the regime and the collective desire for a fresh start. 

The work by the other seven artists in the show also point to the possibility of healing and reconstruction, without ignoring the horrors of the past. Through abstract forms, vivid color palettes, and intricate textures, the artists explore the emotional complexities of life in a post-conflict society — grappling with loss, rebuilding, and forging a new collective identity. 




From Ammar Abd Rabbo's 'Damascus, December 2024' series. (Supplied)

Their diverse styles ensure that the exhibition offers a multifaceted view of Syria’s cultural evolution. It speaks to the varied experiences of individuals affected by the war, from those who witnessed the conflict first-hand to those abroad who have found creative ways to make sense of the country’s developments. 

The exhibition also provides a vital opportunity for audiences to engage with the ongoing changes in Syria, offering an understanding of the personal and collective dimensions of war and recovery.  

Art, as highlighted in “6:18, The DAWN,” serves not only as a form of healing but also as an essential medium for documenting history and inspiring hope. 

- This article was first published on Arab News France. 


Riyadh Fashion Week issues final call for designer applications ahead of 3rd edition

Riyadh Fashion Week issues final call for designer applications ahead of 3rd edition
Updated 08 July 2025

Riyadh Fashion Week issues final call for designer applications ahead of 3rd edition

Riyadh Fashion Week issues final call for designer applications ahead of 3rd edition

DUBAI: Riyadh Fashion Week (RFW) is gearing up for its third edition, with organizers issuing a final call for designer applications. Fashion houses from across and around the world have until July 15 to submit their proposals for inclusion in the official calendar.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

One of the Middle East’s most anticipated fashion events, RFW offers a platform for both emerging and established designers to showcase their collections to international buyers and industry leaders. 

The official calendar will feature a broad spectrum of brand activations beyond traditional runway shows. Designers can also take part in curated presentations, showroom exhibitions, trunk shows, retail pop-ups, creative takeovers, private dinners and immersive experiences. 

-based and international fashion brands across ready-to-wear, couture, menswear, and streetwear categories are eligible. 
“This is more than a runway,” said Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Saudi Fashion Commission. “It is a statement of creative identity, innovation, and ambition. Riyadh Fashion Week provides a high-impact opportunity for designers to tell their story on a global stage.”


Zayed National Museum to explore UAE’s storied history

Zayed National Museum to explore UAE’s storied history
Updated 08 July 2025

Zayed National Museum to explore UAE’s storied history

Zayed National Museum to explore UAE’s storied history
  • Located on Saadiyat Island, the Zayed National Museum has a bevy of illustrious neighbors including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum and teamLab Phenomena

DUBAI: As Zayed National Museum gets ready to open its doors in the UAE capital, Arab News spoke to director Peter Magee about the museum’s aims and what visitors can expect.

An opening date is yet to be announced, but the center will focus on the history of the UAE with special emphasis on Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. It will explore early human settlements that go back 300,000 years as well as the area’s language, traditions, and flora and fauna. 

“The narrative within the museum is guided by the enduring values of the UAE’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan,” explained Magee. “We look at those values and then we look at the way in which they guided him, but also the way in which they reflect social values which exist within the UAE both in the past and the present — and in the future.

Dr. Peter Magee. (Supplied)

“It's a national museum focused on the UAE, but of course it looks at the regional links which existed to other countries in the Arabian Gulf, the Indian Ocean and even further afield.”

One particular highlight is a full-size reconstruction of a Magan boat from the Bronze Age, constructed with reeds and palm-fiber rope. Magee and his team sailed in it for two days on the waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Located on Saadiyat Island, the Zayed National Museum has a bevy of illustrious neighbors including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum and teamLab Phenomena. (Supplied)

Located on Saadiyat Island, the Zayed National Museum has a bevy of illustrious neighbors including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, the Natural History Museum and teamLab Phenomena.

“The way I like to think about it is that each of these museums and institutions … is its own star … and in combination they appear like a constellation or something that can be read coherently together as well as individually,” Magee said.


Georges Hobeika showcases Fall/Winter 2026 collection at Paris Haute Couture Week

Georges Hobeika showcases Fall/Winter 2026 collection at Paris Haute Couture Week
Updated 08 July 2025

Georges Hobeika showcases Fall/Winter 2026 collection at Paris Haute Couture Week

Georges Hobeika showcases Fall/Winter 2026 collection at Paris Haute Couture Week

DUBAI: Lebanese designer Georges Hobeika presented his Fall/Winter 2025/2026 couture collection as part of Paris Haute Couture Week.

Known for his craftsmanship and red-carpet-ready designs, Hobeika’s latest offering featured a wide array of detailed gowns and structured silhouettes.

The runway collection showcased a soft color palette, with shades of beige, blush pink, maroon, black, blue, and brown making up the core color story.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Fabrics included heavily embroidered textiles, delicate lace, satin and tulle. Many looks incorporated tonal embellishments and shimmering surface details. 

Beaded bodices, crystal fringe, and metallic appliqués were prominent throughout the collection, adding texture and dimension.

Silhouettes ranged from structured floor-length gowns and A-line dresses to voluminous skirts and sleek, form-fitting eveningwear. There were also several mid-length and tea-length designs with sculptural detailing, along with a few two-piece sets featuring cropped tops and high-waisted skirts.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

One standout bridal look appeared during the show — a long-sleeved gown with sheer detailing and silver embroidery. The dress was paired with a beaded headpiece and a trailing veil.

Accessories were kept minimal, with statement earrings and clean, slicked-back hair showed off by the models.

Toward the end of the show, Hobeika and his son Jad Hobeika walked the runway together to thank their supporters.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Paris Haute Couture Week kicked off on Monday with Schiaparelli’s Fall 2025 show, marking the start of a series of high-fashion presentations that will run through July 10.

The opening show did not begin with sequins or traditional red carpet glamor, but with the surreal sight of Cardi B and a live crow. 

Wrapped in a custom Schiaparelli gown of graphic fringe, the US rapper stood beneath the gilded columns of the Petit Palais, holding the black bird on her arm. Her avian plus one squawked, glared and nearly lunged — setting the tone for a monochrome show that itself soared straight into the surreal.

On the first day, Iris Van Herpen, Imane Ayissi, Rahul Mishra, Julie de Libran and Giambattista Valli also showcased their collections.

In addition to Georges Hobeika, several other Arab designers are on the calendar, including Ashi Studio, Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad and Rami Al-Ali.


Fontaines DC display words ‘Israel is committing genocide’ on screen at London gig

Fontaines DC display words ‘Israel is committing genocide’ on screen at London gig
Updated 07 July 2025

Fontaines DC display words ‘Israel is committing genocide’ on screen at London gig

Fontaines DC display words ‘Israel is committing genocide’ on screen at London gig

DUBAI: Irish post-punk band Fontaines DC played a sold-out concert in London’s Finsbury Park on Saturday night during which the words “Free Palestine” and “Israel is committing genocide” were projected onto screens. 

Lead singer Grian Chatten performed in front of the 45,000-strong crowd dressed in a kilt and a Sinead O’Connor t-shirt, the Independent reported. 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A piece of music equipment on the north London stage was wrapped in a Palestinian flag and “Israel is committing genocide. Use your voice” came up on the screens after the last song. 

The show comes after multiple artists voiced support for the people of Palestine at the Glastonbury music festival in June.

Last week, the US revoked entry visas for members of British punk-rap duo Bob Vylan following their Glastonbury Festival set, during which frontman Bobby Vylan led the crowd in a controversial chant against Israel’s military.

Performing on the festival’s West Holts Stage on Saturday, the artist shouted “Free, free Palestine” before encouraging the audience to chant, “Death, death to the IDF (Israel Defense Forces).” Video of the moment quickly spread online, sparking backlash.

Meanwhile, Irish rap group Kneecap drew one of the festival’s largest crowds at the West Holts Stage. Dozens of Palestinian flags flew in the crowd as the show opened with an audio montage of news clips referring to the band’s critics and legal woes.

Between high-energy numbers that had fans forming a large mosh pit, the band members — sporting keffiyehs — led the audience in chants of “Free Palestine” and “Free Mo Chara.” They also aimed an expletive-laden chant at UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who has said he didn’t think it was “appropriate” for Kneecap to play Glastonbury.

One member wore a T-shirt emblazoned with “We Are All Palestine Action,” referencing the direct-action network that targets arms factories supplying Israel.


The Open Crate: Meet the women protecting the Arab world’s artistic heritage

The Open Crate: Meet the women protecting the Arab world’s artistic heritage
Updated 07 July 2025

The Open Crate: Meet the women protecting the Arab world’s artistic heritage

The Open Crate: Meet the women protecting the Arab world’s artistic heritage

BEIRUT: What’s the point of owning a beautiful collection — whether art or collectibles — if there’s no proper way to showcase or preserve it?

This question lies at the heart of The Open Crate, a platform designed to help collectors digitize and preserve their collections. Founded by art specialists Amina Debbiche and Nora Mansour, the company offers an inventory and archiving service that catalogs everything from fine art and furniture to watches, books, and pens.

“People know exactly which crypto they have in their portfolio. But when it comes to art, they don't even remember the name of the artist on the wall,” said Mansour, a Lebanese finance expert turned art curator.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Debbiche and Mansour noted the urgency of digitizing art catalogues — especially in the Arab world.

“The thing with art, especially in our region of the world, is that it’s mostly held in private hands,” said Debbiche, a Tunisian art aficionado.

The privatization of artwork in a region with hotspots of instability makes the act of documentation a deeply political one: a means of preserving the unspoken victims of war — art.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

To explain this, Mansour gave Arab News a hypothetical example: think of a Palestinian family in Jerusalem whose house is looted — if their artwork is documented, there’s proof it existed. It’s a map of what you own.

“It’s like our child, you know — it’s like having a baby together,” Mansour joked.

The child they created, The Open Crate, boldly and indirectly addresses an unspoken issue that has long plagued the region. Like any child, it has the potential to grow and carve out a name that its ancestors, and future generations, can be proud of.