Abu Dhabi Hosts Christie’s First Fine Art Auction With Kandinsky Masterpiece

Abu Dhabi is preparing to welcome a landmark moment in its cultural calendar as international auction house Christie’s stages its first fine art auction in the UAE capital on November 1, 2026.

The event, titled MAWASIM: 20 Years of Modern and Contemporary Middle Eastern Art, will take place at The Abu Dhabi EDITION.

A public exhibition running from October 28 to November 1 gives art enthusiasts and collectors an opportunity to explore a selection of important works before the sale.

Kandinsky Painting Takes Centre Stage

One of the main attractions is Wassily Kandinsky’s Betonte Ecken, an abstract painting created in 1923.

The artwork carries an estimated value of $60 million to $80 million, making it a major highlight of the preview.

Previously part of the Guggenheim Museum collection, the painting reflects Kandinsky’s influential approach to colour, geometry and abstract art.

Its presentation in Abu Dhabi places a celebrated work of modern art before regional collectors and international visitors.

Picasso and Rothko Works Join the Preview

The exhibition will also feature works by two other renowned artists, Pablo Picasso and Mark Rothko.

Picasso’s Tête de femme, painted in 1939, has an estimated value of $12 million to $18 million.

Rothko’s 1968 untitled painting is estimated at $10 million to $15 million.

Together, these works showcase different artistic styles and demonstrate the range of modern and contemporary art being presented in the UAE capital.

Middle Eastern Art Takes the Spotlight

The MAWASIM auction brings together 70 works spanning nine decades, featuring artists from across the Middle East and North Africa.

The selection includes pieces connected to the Dalloul Collection and Barjeel Art Foundation, highlighting the region’s artistic diversity and cultural history.

The sale also marks 20 years since Christie’s held its first auction in the UAE in 2006, underlining the growing importance of the regional art market.

Abu Dhabi Strengthens Its Cultural Profile

The exhibition and auction add to Abu Dhabi’s expanding international arts programme, bringing collectors, institutions and art lovers together.

The live auction is scheduled for November 1 at 5pm Gulf Standard Time at The Abu Dhabi EDITION.

With high-value international works and a strong representation of Middle Eastern artists, the event is expected to draw attention to the capital’s role as a meeting point for global art and regional creative talent.