From 30 display tables in 2005 to over 2000 artisans in 2011, the much anticipated ARTE market is celebrating 6 years this September

In September 2005, 30 artisans held their first ARTE Soukh. This modest market, unbeknownst to them, would be the beginning of a massive market that would rapidly grow to become a local hub for quality arts and crafts in the UAE. Over the years, the diversity of the items presented has expanded. The artistic creativity and quality of the pieces have risen each year and as a result, ARTE – Artisans of the Emirates – has grown into a major national show attracting artisans from across country. 

This September, Artisans of the Emirates (ARTE) will commence a new crafting season with a big anniversary celebration that will showcase truly inspired and innovative locally made quality gifts and souvenirs with a unique story behind the object or the ideas it represents. 

ARTE will feature the highest standards and greatest diversity of fine craft available in the UAE. Choose from delicate pottery, vibrant jewellery, timeless home furnishings, seasonal decorations and custom clothing. Over fifty craft categories are represented with creative solutions for every person. You are guaranteed to find beautiful handcrafted objects to suit everyone's taste and budget. 

Here is your chance to encourage and support the city's independent creative community. The UAE is a melting pot of cultures and artisans from all over the world, coming to together during ARTE to produce locally inspired crafts. At a time when everything is available everywhere, ARTE offers products with a genuine local connection, rich in stories and associations. Don’t expect to find mass produced or imported goods here. What you will find are talented artists handpicked for their artistry skills and unique vision offering items you never knew existed and that you may never see again.  Expect the unexpected, including reconstructed clothing, handcrafted jewellery, whimsical and alternative plush toys, screen-printing, avant-garde art and much more! 

The next ARTE market will be held on Friday, 2nd September, 2011 at Festival City Centre (12pm-9pm) and the ARTE Soukh, the following Friday, 9th September, 2011 at Times Square Center (12pm-7pm). Visitors can expect to find an excellent variety of arts and crafts stalls offering top quality UAE Made products and the freshest gourmet foods (food items are at Times Square Centre only).