Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi auction hits $9.7m after record sale

By Megan Brooks 25/06/2026 2 min read 13 views

Sotheby’s has launched an online luxury auction in Abu Dhabi, estimated at up to $9.7 million. The sale, titled Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Edit: Materiality, runs from June 24 to July 10 and features over 30 lots across categories like high jewellery, watches, and automobiles. The auction follows last December’s record-breaking Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week, which grossed more than $133 million.

The event focuses on “materiality,” highlighting rare and valuable substances such as diamonds, carbon fibre, and tantalum. Josh Pullan, global head of Sotheby’s Luxury Division, called the sale a step to build on recent momentum in the Gulf. He noted the auction reflects confidence in the Middle East’s growing influence in the global luxury market.

Five pieces from German jeweller Hemmerle anchor the jewellery section.

Automotive highlights include a Bugatti Factor One high-performance bike and a Ferrari F1 126C4 Junior child’s car, both estimated at $20,000 to $30,000.

Katia Nounou Boueiz, head of Sotheby’s UAE, said the Gulf region is attracting more collectors, many new to the market. She noted buyers are prioritizing rarity, craftsmanship, and provenance. This auction follows earlier initiatives in Abu Dhabi, including a rare diamond exhibition and a luxury handbag festival.

The online platform makes the sale accessible to Gulf-based and international collectors. Sotheby’s said the event shows its commitment to expanding its footprint in the region. No specific figures on expected bids or previous sales in Abu Dhabi were provided, but the auction house emphasized the growing appetite for high-end collectibles in the Gulf.

The sale’s emphasis on materials like titanium and hardstone coral aligns with Sotheby’s strategy to highlight unique aspects of luxury goods.

Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Edit: Materiality is part of a broader effort to establish the UAE as a key market for luxury auctions. The auction house has previously hosted major events in the region, and this sale aims to continue that trend. Bidding remains open until July 10, with final prices to be determined by collector interest.