The Sharjah Biennial 16 (SB16) is back in town, bringing with it an incredible collection of contemporary art from around the world! Running until June 15, 2025, this edition of the Biennial explores how people carry their histories, cultures, and identities as they move through life. With over 650 artworks by nearly 200 artists, including more than 200 newly commissioned pieces, SB16 is a cultural movement coming to life in front of our eys. Expect everything from paintings and sculptures to large-scale installations, multimedia projects, and thought-provoking performances. And the best part? Entry is completely free! I have even more incredible details where that came from, so keep reading to find out more.
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A Biennial That Asks Big Questions
This year’s theme, “to carry,” is an invitation to reflect. Curated by Alia Swastika, Amal Khalaf, Megan Tamati-Quennell, Natasha Ginwala, and Zeynep Öz, SB16 explores what it means to navigate unfamiliar spaces while holding onto history, traditions, and personal experiences. Each curator brings a different perspective, shaping an exhibition that is both deeply personal and universally relevant. Through art, workshops, performances, film screenings, and immersive sound experiences, the Biennial encourages visitors to think about what they carry – physically, emotionally, and culturally – as they move through the world.
Where Can You Experience SB16?
With over 17 locations across the Emirate of Sharjah, SB16 transforms the city into an open-air museum.
Key Locations in Sharjah City:
- Sharjah Art Museum
- Al Mureijah Square
- Calligraphy Museum
- The Flying Saucer
- Old Al Jubail Vegetable Market
- Bank Street Building
Beyond The City: Art In Unexpected Places
SB16 extends beyond central Sharjah, bringing art into historical sites, cultural landmarks, and even nature-filled landscapes:
- Al Hamriyah – Al Hamriyah Studios, Old Al Diwan Al Amiri
- Kalba – Kalba Ice Factory
- Al Dhaid – Old Al Dhaid Clinic, Al Dhaid Arts Palace and Farm
- Buried Village, Al Madam – A hauntingly beautiful abandoned village
- Buhais Geological Park – A stunning natural setting for contemporary art
This spread across multiple venues makes every visit a journey through history, culture, and creativity.
What To Expect Beyond The Exhibitions
SB16 isn’t just about viewing art – it’s about experiencing it. Visitors can expect:
- Live performances – From experimental theatre to spoken word poetry
- Music & sound installations – A fusion of contemporary and traditional influences
- Film screenings – Showcasing powerful visual storytelling
- Workshops & discussions – A chance to engage with artists and curators
With so much happening across different venues, every visit offers something new and unexpected.
Plan Your Visit
Make sure to catch the Biennial during its opening hours:
Saturday – Thursday: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Friday: 4:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Special Ramadan Timings (Likely Feb 28 – Mar 29):
- Sharjah Art Foundation venues: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Sharjah Art Museum: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM & 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM (Closed in the evenings during the last 10 days of Ramadan)
Eid Holiday Hours (Likely Mar 30 – Apr 1 & Jun 6 – 9):
- Open from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM, but note that the Sharjah Art Museum will be closed on the first day of Eid.
If you love art that makes you think, challenges perspectives, and tells compelling stories, then Sharjah Biennial 16 is a must-visit. SB16 promises an experience that will stay with you long after you leave their doors.
For more information be sure to check out their website.
