Dubai Culture Presents “Inherited Lines” Exhibition Celebrating The Artistry Of Arabic Calligraphy

Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is organising ‘Inherited Lines’ exhibition in collaboration with Alliance Française Dubai and with artistic coordination by DiarBid ArtHouse, from 13May to 5 June 2026. The exhibition highlights the significance of Arabic calligraphy as both an expressive and aesthetic medium that reflects the richness of Arab culture and heritage.

This exhibition forms part of Dubai Culture’s ongoing efforts to provide diverse platforms that empower creative talents and encourage them to showcase their artistic work. Through such initiatives, the Authority continues to strengthen the cultural and creative industries while advancing the vision of positioning Dubai as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.

Hosted at La Galerie at Alliance Française Dubai, the exhibition features 20 artworks and calligraphic compositions created by a distinguished group of artists, calligraphers, and instructors, including Hussam Abdelwahab, Abdulrazzak Mahmoud, and Bahman Zahedi. It also includes selected works by Sabeena Shajahan, Nemat Meqdady, Rasha Majeed, Entesar Ahmed, Suzan Murad, Nadia Siraj, and Sah, who are graduates of the Arabic Calligraphy, Ornamentation and Gilding Programme organised by Dubai Culture last year to support emerging talents and enable them to develop their skills and explore the techniques of this art form.

Through ‘Inherited Lines,’ Arabic calligraphy is presented as a unique visual language and a structured artistic system rooted in centuries of disciplined practice. The exhibition invites visitors to explore the aesthetics, styles, and diverse techniques of calligraphy, revealing its ability to transform the written word into rhythm, proportion, and visual harmony. The exhibition also reflects the wide artistic horizons and creative visions of the participating artists, whose works embody the beauty and diversity of Arabic calligraphy across its various forms.

Commenting on the exhibition, Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, highlighted the importance of Arabic calligraphy as a powerful expression of Arab culture and its rich creative heritage, saying: “Arabic calligraphy represents one of the pillars of our national identity and a source of inspiration that reflects the richness of our culture and the depth of our local and Arab heritage. It is a distinctive art form in its own right, celebrated for the beauty of its geometry, details, and diverse stylistic expressions. Through our projects, programmes, and gatherings dedicated to calligraphy and calligraphers, we remain committed to preserving and promoting this art form in alignment with its sector priorities and its broader mission to support artists and creative talents working in this field.”

Al Suwaidi added: “Inherited Lines exhibition reflects Dubai’s creative spirit and cultural diversity through the variety of works and calligraphic styles presented. The exhibition contributes to fostering a vibrant creative environment in Dubai, offering visitors the opportunity to discover the intricate details of Arabic calligraphy and the beauty of ornamentation, while engaging with a rich collection of artistic experiences that highlight the creativity and technical mastery of local talent.”