Gulf Art Institutions Close Amid Regional Conflict Following Iranian Retaliation Strikes

In response to missile and drone strikes from Iran targeting nations with US interests, art venues across the Gulf have halted their operations. Temporary closures were implemented at museums and galleries in the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Specifically, the Jameel Arts Centre in Dubai ceased operations on March 2, while Alserkal Avenue galleries also announced their shutdowns. Prominent institutions such as Louvre Abu Dhabi and NYU Abu Dhabi Art Gallery have paused in-person events. American universities transitioned to online classes. The upcoming 20th edition of Art Dubai is set for April 17-19. These Iranian assaults followed US-Israeli airstrikes that reportedly resulted in the deaths of 555 to 787 individuals in Iran. The US has urged its citizens to exit several regional nations and has closed embassies in Saudi Arabia and Kuwait.