The Barjeel Art Foundation, renowned for its impressive collection of modern and Arab art curated by Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi, has officially commenced construction on its inaugural museum in Sharjah, set to welcome visitors in January 2028.
Announcing the milestone on Instagram, Sultan Sooud Al Qassemi shared insights from a recent visit to the expansive 38,750-square-foot site located along Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. The project is being designed by Abdelmoneam Essa of Architecture Corner Consultants, who has drawn inspiration from Al Qassemi's own sketches and photographs depicting architectural elements from the Al Rigga neighborhood.
In recent years, the Barjeel Art Foundation has expanded its collaborative efforts, lending artworks beyond the UAE and establishing deeper connections with regional institutions. This initiative is part of a broader mission to enhance the understanding of Arab art history while supporting contemporary artists. The foundation has made its collection accessible online and engages in regular curatorial projects, exhibitions, and publications.
Last March, coinciding with Women's History Month, the foundation launched a virtual gallery showcasing abstract art by women from the SWANA region in partnership with Google Arts & Culture. Later that year, it contributed approximately 40 works to the exhibition "Resonant Histories" at Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, which aimed to create a dialogue between Indian and Arab modernism.
Barjeel curator Rémi Homs articulated the foundation's vision, stating, "We strive to collect works that hold significance for our collection. Our focus is on academic relevance while also creating a collection that will serve as a lasting legacy for the region."
The establishment of this museum is poised to transform the cultural landscape of Sharjah, providing a dedicated space for the appreciation of modern and Arab art and fostering greater engagement with the artistic community. As it opens its doors, the Barjeel Art Foundation's museum will not only enrich local culture but also inspire future generations of artists and art enthusiasts alike.
