Manarat Al Saadiyat opened in 2009 as an exhibition centre and is today an active community space that contributes to the arts scene in Abu Dhabi. With its year-round curated exhibitions, film screenings, performances, workshops and drop-in studio spaces, the centre continually engages with the community. It explores contemporary concepts and ideas that speak to all ages.

Urbanity and popular culture lie at the core of Manarat Al Saadiyat, with a particular emphasis on photography and multimedia. Ongoing programmes explore film, music, animation, gaming, photography and media. It also provides room for expression and innovation, through art workshops for both children and adults in printmaking, self-portraits, figure drawing and ceramics.

The centre is home to the Photography Studio, Art Studio and three galleries for temporary exhibitions. It has an outdoor events terrace, a cafe and brasserie, a 250-seat auditorium and a 100-seat theatre space. Located in the Saadiyat Cultural District, Manarat Al Saadiyat is a gateway to Louvre Abu Dhabi, the future Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. It is also the primary location for Abu Dhabi Art and the Culture Summit.