From Frida Kahlo and Picasso to the Kaaba’s curtain, Sheikha Sumaya Noor’s private collection, valued at more than Dh12 billion, brings together the artistic and historical heritage of diverse civilisations in Dubai.

According to Gulf News, the Noor Royal Collection, founded by Sheikha Sumaya Noor, is a private art collection in Dubai assembled over nearly two decades. It includes international artworks, Islamic heritage pieces, historical manuscripts and cultural artefacts.

Located in Dubai’s Jumeirah district, the collection reflects Sheikha Sumaya Noor’s vision of preserving cultural heritage, promoting a culture of collecting and forging connections between art, history and future generations.

Sheikha Sumaya Noor, founder, chairperson and CEO of Noor Royal Holding, began collecting art nearly 20 years ago. By expanding the collection and creating a dedicated space to display selected works, she has sought to present art not merely as private property but as a cultural and historical legacy.

The Noor Royal Collection is valued at approximately $3.3 billion, equivalent to more than Dh12 billion, according to an internal estimate by its management.

1

Works by Prominent International Artists

One of Noor Royal’s standout sections is dedicated to works attributed to renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. The collection’s officials say it houses three works attributed to Kahlo, exploring themes of identity, human relationships and personal experiences.

The collection also includes works credited or attributed to artists such as Pablo Picasso, Edgar Degas, Francis Bacon, Henri Matisse, Camille Pissarro, Claude Monet, Fernando Botero and Diego Velázquez.

Highlights include a bronze sculpture of a dancer attributed to Degas, a drawing titled “Bull” attributed to Picasso and a portrait attributed to Velázquez.

2

Islamic Heritage: Connecting Art, History and Spirituality

Another significant section of the Noor Royal Collection is dedicated to the artistic and historical heritage of the Islamic world.

This section features handwritten and illuminated Qurans, manuscripts from various historical periods, and works associated with Ottoman and Moroccan artistic traditions.

Among the most significant objects featured in this section is a complete covering of the Kaaba, known as the Kiswah, held in the private collection of Sheikha Sumaya Noor.

The presence of such works at Noor Royal reflects the collection’s commitment to preserving and showcasing Islamic artistic heritage and its role in the cultural history of civilisations.

3

Tribute to the UAE’s Founding Father

Another standout work in the collection is a portrait of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE, titled “Sheikh Zayed: The Rarity of Humanity.”

Created by Australian artist Victor Pragas using meteorite materials, the work incorporates substances that expert documentation dates to more than 4.3 billion years ago.

The work is an artistic tribute to the character and legacy of the UAE’s Founding Father and the humanitarian values associated with his name.

4

Beyond Collecting: Cultural Responsibility and Supporting the Next Generation

In addition to preserving and exhibiting artworks, Noor Royal is committed to supporting emerging artists and expanding access to cultural experiences.

As part of this commitment, the collection provides selected World Art Dubai artists with opportunities to exhibit their work alongside its permanent collection, helping introduce new talent to wider audiences.

Noor Royal’s founder views art through a combination of cultural value, historical significance and the long-term role of artworks in preserving heritage and wealth across generations.

5

Dubai: Where Artistic Heritage Meets World Cultures

Noor Royal’s presence in Dubai aligns with the city’s growing status as a hub for cultural exchange, artistic activity and connections among international collectors.

By preserving artworks, highlighting historical narratives and supporting a new generation of artists, the Noor Royal Collection seeks to expand its role in fostering a culture of collecting and dialogue among civilisations.

Noor Royal is not merely a story about the financial value of art; it reflects two decades of collecting, preserving cultural heritage and pursuing a vision to pass art and history on to future generations.