Sotheby’s makes history with first-ever marquee auction in Abu Dhabi

Sotheby’s debuts in Abu Dhabi with Collectors’ Week

Brace yourself for world-class auctions, rare luxury items and exclusive exhibitions on Saadiyat Island

 

Sotheby’s is making a bold move this winter, bringing its first-ever marquee auction series to Abu Dhabi, from 2 to 5 December 2025.

In partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), this major cultural moment, dubbed Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week, will unfold on Saadiyat Island, right alongside world-class institutions like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the soon-to-open Guggenheim.

Designed as a luxurious blend of exhibitions, talks, and headline-making sales, the week marks a new chapter in the region’s booming art and luxury scene.

As Katia Nounou Boueiz, Head of Sotheby’s UAE, put it, “Abu Dhabi has become a leading global destination for culture and luxury. Our December showcase will be unmissable for collectors across the region and internationally.”

And it won’t just be about art. The auction lineup reads like a dream wishlist; think high jewellery, rare watches, collector cars, and even exclusive real estate, courtesy of Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions and RM Sotheby’s.

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Leading the way is a single-owner collection expected to exceed $20 million, featuring signed pieces, museum-grade gemstones, and timepieces.

Among the highlights? A dazzling 31.86-carat Fancy Vivid Orangy Pink Diamond, aptly named The Desert Rose, estimated between $5–7 million.

On the wristwatch front, keep an eye on the ultra-rare Rolex “Oyster Albino” Daytona (ref. 6263), a minimalist silver-dial piece estimated at up to $1 million.

Car lovers aren’t left out either. RM Sotheby’s is teaming up with McLaren Racing for an unprecedented sale of three future competition cars, including a 2026 McLaren F1 chassis, to be auctioned during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix weekend.

And for hypercar collectors, the 2017 Pagani Zonda 760 Riviera (est. $9.5–10.5 million) and a 2010 Aston Martin One-77 (est. $1.3–1.6 million) are among the marquee lots.

All this is happening during one of Abu Dhabi’s busiest weeks, with major events like the Formula One Grand Prix, Abu Dhabi Finance Week, and the Milken Institute Summit pulling in a global crowd.

2-5 December, Saadiyat Island Abu Dhabi. For further information, visit sothebys.com

 

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