Drawing on ten years of auction data across key regional and international houses, the MENA Auction Market 2015–24 report traces market developments from 2015 to 2024, highlighting the interplay between global economic currents, regional politics, and collector appetite. Although momentum slowed in 2024 following a stronger 2023, the outlook remains optimistic, supported by cultural investment and the growing visibility of younger, more accessibly priced contemporary artists.

As institutions expand and regional initiatives take root, this report offers timely insights for collectors, advisors, and cultural stakeholders navigating the MENA art landscape.

Inside, you’ll find:

• A comparative breakdown of 2024 vs. 2023 performance, across sales channels, artist generations, and gender
• Category trends, including the growing importance of affordable contemporary works
• A closer look at the top-performing artists and record-breaking sales
• Focus sections on women artists and emerging young contemporaries
• New feature: Perspectives from the following industry professionals on building sustainable growth and what’s driving collector confidence in the region
  • Ashkan Baghestani (SVP | Head of Contemporary Day Sale, Contemporary Art, New York & Middle East at Sotheby’s)
  • Alexie Glass-Kantor (Executive Director, Curatorial, for Art Dubai Group)
  • Rebecca Anne Proctor (Independent Journalist, Editor, Author, and Broadcaster)
  • Sunny Rahbar (Co-Founder of The Third Line)