Art Dubai (formerly the DIFC Gulf Art Fair), to be held in March, will feature more than 80 international galleries.

The show, which will double in size, will take place at the Madinat Arena Jumeirah Resort in Dubai from March 19-22.

The change of name is intended to reflect Dubai’s growing role as a centre for art and a cultural melting pot, said a spokesman.

“We were so delighted with the feedback from galleries, collectors and the art world at the inaugural fair, and with the positive impact this has had on Dubai’s image as a new international centre for the commercial art market. The change of name also reflects the commitment to arts and culture as highlighted in Dubai’s 2015 Vision,” said Dr Omar Bin Sulaiman, governor of the DIFC and chairman of Art Dubai.

“Art Dubai will become a major international destination event and an important showcase for the best international contemporary art,” said John Martin, director, Art Dubai. “Emphasis will be placed on galleries from the emerging markets of the Middle East, South and Central Asia and the Far East, showing alongside established international galleries from the West. As Art Dubai, we are proud to be able to contribute towards Dubai’s growing significance as an international cultural hub.”

Also in its second year, The DIFC Global Art Forum 2008 takes place alongside Art Dubai from March 19 -21. Gathering together leading collectors, curators, artists and philanthropists, the forum will consider the current state of art production in the Middle East and ways to develop opportunities for its artists and curators. The transcripts of the 2007 DIFC Global Art Forum will be published and launched in Paris in October 2007. – TradeArabia News Service