Guest Relations at Jameel Arts Centre Examines Hospitality and Tourism

The 'Guest Relations' exhibition at the Jameel Arts Centre in Dubai showcases a blend of artwork, archival resources, and architectural studies from the Global South, focusing on the changes linked to touristification. Curated by Murtaza Vali alongside Lucas Morin, this exhibit addresses Dubai's swift evolution into a tourism hub and its urban planning influenced by hospitality investments. It highlights the intricate social dynamics beyond mere luxury and spectacle, positioning hotels as focal points for historical and artistic exploration, while also referencing airlines, cruise ships, amusement parks, and social media. The exhibition chronicles the hotel’s journey from colonial opulence to globalization, weaving narratives of nationalism, modernity, conflict, labor, and class. Featured artists include Pio Abad, Nadi Abusaada, and many others.