Sotheby’s, the world-renowned auction house, has announced its first-ever marquee auction series to be held in Abu Dhabi, marking a significant step in the emirate’s emergence as a global hub for art, culture, and luxury. Held as part of “Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week” will take place from December 2-5, 2025, culminating a series of events and exhibitions that will begin in September.
In a landmark collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) to further its commitment to the fastest growing region for culture, art & luxury, the event will feature a series of high-profile auctions. These sales will include high jewellery, rare timepieces, world-leading collector cars, and exclusive real estate from RM Sotheby’s and Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions, alongside a museum-quality exhibition of international fine art. The events will be held at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort (Main image above).
A major highlight of the week is a single-owner collection of jewellery and watches, estimated to achieve in excess of $20 million. Leading the collection is a pear-shaped, 31.86-carat Fancy Vivid Orangy Pink Diamond, dubbed “The Desert Rose,” which is the largest of its kind ever graded and is expected to fetch between $5 million and $7 million. The collection also includes an exceptionally rare Rolex “Oyster Albino” Daytona, estimated at $500,000 to $1 million.
For automotive enthusiasts, RM Sotheby’s is collaborating with McLaren Racing to offer a trio of future competition cars, including a 2026 McLaren Formula 1 Team car, a 2027 McLaren United AS racer, and a 2026 Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team car. These cars will be auctioned on December 5, coinciding with the final Formula 1 race of the season in Abu Dhabi. Other notable vehicles include a 2017 Pagani Zonda 760 Riviera (estimate: $9.5-$10.5 million) and a rare 2010 Aston Martin One-77 (estimate: $1.3-$1.6 million).
The Collectors’ Week will coincide with some of the region’s most dynamic events, including the Formula One Grand Prix, Milken Institute Middle East and Africa Summit, Abu Dhabi Finance Week, and Bitcoin MENA, attracting a global audience of collectors and thought leaders.
Noora Al Foulathi, Head of Abu Dhabi Retail, commented on the significance of the event, stating, “Abu Dhabi is where heritage transcends time and connoisseurship is a way of life. With the exclusive global debut of Collectors’ Week in the capital, we unveil more than rare and exceptional pieces – we reaffirm the city’s cultural depth, shaped by the quiet power of true luxury.”