Arts blossom in Arabian desert  

Long derided as a cultural desert, the Persian Gulf art scene is beginning to blossom.

Wealthy nationals and homesick expatriates are looking to add "soul" to their shopping lists and the world's major auction houses are upping their presence to meet that demand.

From graceful Arabic calligraphy to "Dollar Sign" by American icon Andy Warhol, 190 works of contemporary art went under the hammer at a Christie's auction held this month in Dubai, the commercial hub better known for its glass skyscrapers and sprawling malls than its arts scene.

Christie's held the Middle East's first contemporary art auction in Dubai last year. Its second auction of contemporary Arab, Iranian, Indian and Western art drew collectors from India, the Arab world and beyond, and topped the house's own expectations with US$9.4 million in sales.

"There is very much a sense that Dubai is trying to position itself as a third art market in the world after London and New York.