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Art Cairo has just announced its 2026 direction, and it’s a breathtaking, full-hearted celebration with a crystal-clear mission. The entire event will pulse to the rhythm of a powerful three-word theme: “Arab. Art. Here.”

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This is a bold move. The fair is putting the vibrant, living essence of the Arabic language squarely at its core. Think of it as a giant, joyful exploration of how language shapes everything from artistic expression and collective memory to today’s most exciting contemporary practice. The energy is going to be contagious!

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Your Guide to the Must-See Gallery Scene

The gallery lineup is a curated dream, showcasing talent from across the region and beyond. Let’s meet the all-stars!

The local Egyptian art scene is represented by favorites like Zamalek Art Gallery and Mashrabia Gallery of Contemporary Art. Their artists dive deep into compelling social histories and rich political narratives.

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Travel with your eyes to Lebanon through spaces like Mark Hachem Gallery and Maya Art Space, presenting works that poignantly tackle themes of identity and storytelling. From Jordan, galleries like Wadi Finan bring a fluid beauty moving between abstraction and figuration.

And for that global perspective? Prestigious names including Salwa Zeidan Gallery and Folk Art Space are joining, promising a beautifully diverse artistic dialogue.

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Celebrate Icons and Ignite Conversations

Prepare for a moving tribute to a true pioneer. This edition honors Guirguis Lotfi, a legendary figure in modern Egyptian art whose inspiring legacy continues to resonate powerfully today.

Plus, history will feel thrillingly present with a special solo museum exhibition of Inji Efflatoun. Drawing from the treasures of the Egyptian Museum of Modern Art, this showcase reminds us that great collections are dynamic, living archives forever speaking to now.

The ideas will flow as freely as the inspiration! The talk program, named “Hiwar” (meaning "dialogue" in Arabic), is stacked with brilliant discussions.

Gain insider perspective on the art market with Christie’s, explore the vital artist-gallery-collector relationship, and discover exciting collaborations in “The Bridge: Designers and Galleries.” Thought-provoking sessions like “Belonging Through Art” will examine creativity as a social force, while “Between Two Worlds” offers a fresh lens on modern Egyptian art through cultural memory and everyday life.

Art Cairo 2026 is meticulously crafting a universe where language, legacy, and future-facing creativity collide. This is the definitive gathering for anyone passionate about the pulse of the region’s creative industries. Your ultimate art moment awaits.

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