Sotheby’s has announced the debut of its Collectors’ Week in Abu Dhabi, unveiling more than $1 billion worth of fine art, jewellery, watches, handbags, collector cars and real estate.
The four-day event, held in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) from 2–5 December at the St Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, marks the auction house’s largest-ever presentation in the region.
The programme will include five live luxury auctions valued at $150 million, the most valuable ever staged in the Middle East, alongside $100 million in private sale offerings. Among the highlights are a 2026 McLaren Formula 1 team car, the world’s largest Fancy Vivid Orangy Pink diamond, a full Patek Philippe Star Caliber 2000 set, and Jane Birkin’s personal Birkin bag.
Sotheby’s will also stage a major Fine Art exhibition featuring Gustav Klimt’s Lady with a Fan, Banksy’s Girl Without Balloon, a rare Rembrandt drawing, and The Guennol Lioness, the most valuable ancient artefact ever sold at auction.
Charles F. Stewart, Sotheby’s Chief Executive Officer, said the event underscores the UAE’s rise as a global hub for art and luxury. “The UAE has rapidly become a centre for culture and connoisseurship. We are honoured to present this world-class lineup of auctions and exhibitions in Abu Dhabi during one of the most dynamic weeks of the year.”
Noora Al Foulathi, Head of Abu Dhabi Retail, described the partnership as a milestone for the capital. “Hosting the inaugural Collectors’ Week reflects Abu Dhabi’s growing cultural influence. It’s not just about auctions; it’s about creating meaningful experiences and connecting our collector community with the world.”
Complementing the auctions and exhibitions will be a series of more than a dozen talks and masterclasses, featuring figures such as Diana Picasso, Batia Ofer, and Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan bin Khalifa Al Nahyan, alongside specialists in jewellery, art, and design.
Josh Pullan, Global Head of Sotheby’s Luxury Division, said the week signals a new chapter in Sotheby’s expansion. “Abu Dhabi’s fast-evolving collector base and long-term cultural vision make it the ideal home for our inaugural event. Collectors’ Week is both a celebration of craftsmanship and a bridge to the future of global collecting.”
