Art Basel Paris Closes Early as ART SG, Serendipity and Abu Dhabi Announce New Programs

The 2026 edition of Art Basel Paris concluded at 7:00 PM on October 23, with public weekend events canceled due to security issues stemming from widespread student and civil unrest. Activist groups organized protests at the Grand Palais, resulting in the implementation of crash barriers and identity checks. Access was hindered at the École du Louvre due to student actions, prompting Hauser & Wirth to temporarily shut down and the Jeu de Paume to cancel a planned exhibition reception. Weekend ticket holders are being notified, but no information regarding compensation for exhibitors has been released. ART SG is set to return to Marina Bay Sands from January 22–24, 2027, with initiatives like the SGD 250,000 SAM ART SG Fund. Tammy Nguyen's opera prelude will be showcased at the Venice Biennale on November 13–14. Aldar has unveiled plans for a new cultural district named "Noma" ahead of Frieze Abu Dhabi. Additionally, Serendipity Arts will introduce a London edition from June 19–27, 2027.