Hundreds of artists, women with fluorescent bags, art patrons, men in long ivory-white abaya, a platter of dates and countless cameras made it to the opening night of the giant annual art fair, Art Dubai, on Wednesday 20 March.

From graffiti murals by Tunisian artist eL Seed, to photography by contemporary Egyptian artist Youssef Nabil to a mixed media piece by prominent Syrian painter Fadi Yaziji, the works showcased at the massive art affair is as diverse as the visitors pouring into the lavish Madinet Jumeirah until 23 March, seeking to encounter - and purchase - some of the region's finest art.

Art Dubai hosts $40 million worth of artwork this year, the fair Director Antonia Carver said during a press conference Monday morning. The fair showcases visual artwork by around 500 artists and 75 galleries from 30 countries participate in the regional art gala.

Ahram Online gives you a glimpse of the fair in this photo gallery.