Elie Khouri to Launch Private Contemporary Art Foundation in Dubai by 2028
A historic Jumeirah 1 villa will be transformed into a new cultural hub for Dubai.
1New Cultural Institution
Collector Elie Khouri is establishing the Elie Khouri Art Foundation in Dubai, scheduled to open in 2028. Located in the Jumeirah 1 district, the foundation will occupy a renovated villa. This project aims to provide a permanent home for Khouri’s extensive private collection, which features works by over 300 artists.
2Architectural Vision
Architect Sumayya Vally and her firm, Counterspace, are leading the renovation. The design integrates the intimate geometry of traditional Gulf courtyard houses with a new public scale. By preserving original architectural elements like cornices and balustrades, the project seeks to bridge the building’s domestic history with its future as a public institution.
3Strategic Leadership
Caroline Louca, a veteran art strategist formerly with Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, has been appointed as the foundation's director. Louca is currently overseeing the development of educational programs and community outreach initiatives. The team plans to hire a dedicated curatorial staff closer to the 2028 opening date.
4Collection and Programming
The foundation will initially draw from Khouri’s personal holdings, which emphasize global contemporary art with a significant focus on Middle Eastern talent. Over time, the program will evolve to include institutional collaborations, international loans, and new acquisitions. The goal is to build an independent collection separate from Khouri’s private assets.
5Community Engagement Focus
Beyond traditional gallery displays, the foundation will feature gardens, hospitality areas, and outdoor spaces for seasonal events. Director Caroline Louca emphasizes that the institution aims to foster dialogue and curiosity. The goal is to create a welcoming environment where visitors feel comfortable asking questions and engaging deeply with contemporary art.
6Dubai’s Cultural Infrastructure
Private foundations have become essential pillars of Dubai’s art scene, supplementing existing institutions like the Jameel Arts Centre and Alserkal Avenue. Khouri believes that private initiatives are crucial for building a unique local culture. This project reflects the city's ongoing expansion of its contemporary art infrastructure and commitment to supporting entrepreneurship.
7Development Origins
Khouri began planning the foundation five years ago while participating in the Delfina Foundation’s collectors-in-residence program in London. Through feasibility studies conducted during this period, he identified a specific need for private institutions in Dubai. The project is designed to give back to the community and foster a vibrant exchange of ideas.
8Future Outlook
As the 2028 opening approaches, the foundation aims to become a hub for artists, researchers, and makers. By blending exhibition galleries with educational streams, it seeks to influence the region's cultural landscape. The project stands as a testament to the growing influence of private collectors in shaping the UAE's artistic future.