Left: Vyjayanthi Rao. Photographed by Alfonse Chiu. Image courtesy of Vyjayanthi Rao. Right: Tau Tavengwa. Photographed by Samer Moukarzel. Image courtesy of Tau Tavengwa.
Sharjah Architecture Triennial 2026
Title TBA
November 2026 – March 2027
Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
The third edition of the Sharjah Architecture Triennial (SAT) will take place from November 2026 to March 2027 in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. Anthropologist, writer, and curator Vyjayanthi Rao has been appointed curator of SAT03, with architect, editor, and publisher Tau Tavengwa joining as associate curator. Together, they bring a multidisciplinary approach to investigating the spatial and political dynamics of architecture and urbanism across the Global South.
Rao and Tavengwa previously collaborated on the Lisbon Architecture Triennale 2022, establishing a shared curatorial language rooted in cross-regional and cross-disciplinary exchange. At SAT03, they aim to expand on this dialogue with a focus on generative and propositional approaches that directly engage contemporary urban challenges.
“Through our collaboration, we hope to open up new ways of thinking about what a triennial like Sharjah can become over time—leaving behind tangible strategies and ideas that respond to the needs and challenges of contemporary urban centres across the Global South and beyond,” said Rao and Tavengwa.
This approach aligns closely with the mission of the Sharjah Architecture Triennial, which serves as a platform for critical reflection, innovation, and long-term knowledge production situated within Sharjah’s rapidly evolving urban landscape.
Hoor Al Qasimi, President and Director of the Sharjah Architecture Triennial, expressed support for the newly appointed curatorial team:
“Rao’s practice, which offers vital insights into urbanisation, aligns with the context of SAT and Sharjah’s ongoing urban transformation. Her work speaks directly to the Triennial’s mission in terms of our commitment to research, innovation and knowledge-sharing, and we are excited to support both her and Tau in fostering a public-facing conversation around the critical, and complex, issues of today.”
As part of the lead-up to the 2026 edition, SAT will host a public event titled “Meet the Curators of the 2026 SAT Edition” on 10 May 2025 at its headquarters in Al Qasimiyah School.
The title and full programme for SAT03 will be announced in the months ahead. For further details and updates, visit www.sharjaharchitecture.org.
