ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Maryam Al Falasi Opens Iris Projects Gallery in Abu Dhabi's MiZa Neighborhood

institutional · 2026-04-22

In Abu Dhabi's MiZa cultural neighborhood, Maryam Al Falasi has inaugurated a new physical gallery for Iris Projects, thereby enhancing the visual arts agency. The gallery's first exhibition, titled 'The Breath of Decay,' showcases the work of emerging artist Alyazia Al Nahyan and is curated by Nadine Khalil. Established in 2020, Iris Projects aims to support contemporary artists and foster visual arts culture within the UAE. This opening aligns with Abu Dhabi Art, featuring pieces by Juma Al Haj and Alyazia Al Nahyan. Al Falasi selected Abu Dhabi for its cultural importance and its closeness to prominent institutions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Looking ahead to 2025, solo exhibitions will include Abdullah Al Othman, Shamsa Al Omaira, and Roudha Al Mazrouei, along with plans for community-driven events and cultural initiatives.

Key facts

  • Maryam Al Falasi opened a physical gallery for Iris Projects in Abu Dhabi's MiZa neighborhood
  • The inaugural exhibition 'The Breath of Decay' features emerging artist Alyazia Al Nahyan
  • Iris Projects was founded as an online platform in 2020
  • The gallery participates in Abu Dhabi Art with works by Juma Al Haj and Alyazia Al Nahyan
  • Al Falasi studied art history and archaeology at Sorbonne University
  • The gallery is the first in MiZa, neighboring Louvre Abu Dhabi and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
  • Upcoming solo exhibitions in 2025 will feature Abdullah Al Othman, Shamsa Al Omaira, and Roudha Al Mazrouei
  • Nadine Khalil curated the inaugural exhibition and mentors Alyazia Al Nahyan

Entities

Artists

  • Maryam Al Falasi
  • Juma Al Haj
  • Alyazia Al Nahyan
  • Abdullah Al Othman
  • Shamsa Al Omaira
  • Roudha Al Mazrouei

Institutions

  • Iris Projects
  • Sorbonne University
  • Louvre Abu Dhabi
  • Guggenheim Abu Dhabi
  • Abu Dhabi Art
  • Canvas

Locations

  • Abu Dhabi
  • UAE
  • MiZa
  • Mina Zayed
  • Saadiyat Cultural District

Sources