Water as a Common Ground Symposium 2026 in Dubai

Water as a Common Ground Symposium 2026 in Dubai invites you to spend an afternoon at Jameel Arts Centre thinking about one of the most urgent questions of our time: what happens to water, and to the people who depend on it, in a changing climate. Titled Water as a Common Ground: Notes from a Majlis, this public symposium takes place on Saturday 7 November 2026 from 12pm to 6pm, presented with Visible Project.

About Water as a Common Ground in Dubai

More than 15 artists, scientists, legal thinkers and researchers come together to share public consultations and presentations on water systems affected by the climate crisis.

The public programme follows a closed session held in the format of a Majlis al-Shura, or consultative assembly. The afternoon shares the outcomes of that assembly with a wider audience, which gives it a spirit of shared discussion and collective thinking.

It is a chance to hear voices from very different fields tackle the same subject, and to see how art, science and law each shed light on how we live with water.

What to Expect

Rivers, Oases and Forests

Presentations look at the Tigris River, the Al Ahsa oasis and the forests of the Western Ghats, three very different landscapes in Iraq, Saudi Arabia and India, all shaped by water.

Big Ideas

Themes include hydraulic justice, disappearing geographies and colonial legacies of ecological control. Expect serious ideas, presented for a general audience.

Featured Participants

Participants include Sherko Abbas, Dr Rohan D’Souza and Andreas Philippopoulos-Mihalopoulos, among more than 15 contributors from art, science and law.

Notes from a Majlis

The format draws on the majlis tradition of consultation and conversation, so expect an afternoon that feels like an open exchange rather than a string of lectures.

Who It Is For

This symposium suits anyone interested in climate, ecology, art and justice, from students and researchers to curious residents. You do not need specialist knowledge, just an interest in how water shapes communities. It is a discussion-led afternoon pitched at adults.

Key Highlights

• More than 15 artists, scientists, legal thinkers and researchers.
• Presented by Jameel Arts Centre with Visible Project.
• Case studies from Iraq, Saudi Arabia and India.
• Builds on a closed Majlis al-Shura session.
• Open to all, with an RSVP recommended.

The Venue: Jameel Arts Centre

The symposium takes place in the Lobby of Jameel Arts Centre on the Jaddaf Waterfront, beside Dubai Creek. The centre has galleries, a library, a shop and a restaurant, plus the Jaddaf Waterfront Sculpture Park outside, so it is easy to make a full afternoon of it.

Visitor Tips

Getting There and Parking

You can take the Metro Green Line to Creek Station and continue by taxi. If you are driving, check parking options before you set off.

Age and Entry Policy

Jameel Arts Centre is open access, and visitors check in at the Welcome Desk. An RSVP is recommended, as places can be limited.

What to Bring

Bring your RSVP confirmation and a notebook. A light layer is handy for air-conditioned spaces over a long afternoon.

Dress Code

There is no formal dress code. Smart casual, comfortable clothes are ideal.

Arrive Early

The programme starts at 12pm. You are welcome to come for the sessions that interest you most, but arriving early helps you settle in and get a good seat.

For anyone who cares about climate, culture and our shared resources, Water as a Common Ground is a thoughtful Saturday afternoon by the creek. RSVP now to secure your place, and stay on afterwards to keep the conversation going.