Sotheby’s Auction 2026 offers collectors, art enthusiasts and luxury buyers opportunities to explore fine art, rare watches, jewellery, handbags, collectible cars and other valuable items. Buyers can join sales according to their interests and budget, with auctions held in major international cities or online.
The biggest event of the year is Sotheby’s Collectors’ Week, which will be held in Abu Dhabi from 4th December to 10th December, 2026. Luxury auctions will feature the artists of the Middle East and Internationals on December 9 alongside fine art auction on 10th December.
If you are looking to buy an art work, find a rare luxury item or just attend in an auction exhibition, you can prepare yourself by knowing the dates and places, the registration process and the extra charges.
This guide outlines the ins and outs of the Sotheby’s auctions in 2026, including what to look forward to in the next sales and how to register and bid.
What Is Sotheby’s Auction 2026?
Sotheby’s is an auction house that specializes in the sale of fine art, jewellery, watches, luxury goods, wine and other collectible items worldwide. It is a place for auctions where private collectors, experienced buyers, dealers and rare objects seekers gather.
All the sales throughout the year are known as Sotheby’s Auction 2026. The auctions are conducted in various cities and can be either in person, online, or both.
What Can You Buy at Sotheby’s Auctions?
Items available will vary from sale to sale. Major categories include:
- Fine art: Paintings, drawings, sculptures and contemporary artworks.
- Luxury watches: timepieces made by reputable watchmakers and collectibles.
- Jewellery: Diamond jewellery, coloured gems and designer jewellery.
- Handbags: Unusual, limited edition and collectible luxury handbags.
- Collectible Cars: Classic, modern and high-performance cars.
- Wine and spirits: Rare bottles and specialist collections.
- Collectibles and design: Historical objects, decorative arts, memorabilia and design pieces.
There is a catalogue and estimated prices and conditions of sale for each auction. These are important considerations for buyers to take into account prior to enrolling.
How Do Sotheby’s Auctions Work?
The auction is a situation in which registered individuals bid for an item. The auctioneer or auction site handles the bidding process as per the bidding rules of the sale.
Sotheby’s typically print a catalogue before an auction, which includes descriptions, photographs and estimated prices of each lot. Interested buyers can do research on the items and register to participate.
At the end of the bid, the bid that is successful is the hammer price. However, the bill of sale for the buyer may include buyer’s premium, taxes and any other applicable charges.
Sotheby’s Auction Calendar 2026: Dates and Locations
Sotheby’s has auctions in several other countries around the world besides the United States, such as London, Hong Kong, Paris, Geneva, and Abu Dhabi. Some categories are available in some cities, but not in others, and at different sale dates.
The following table gives a general idea of the types of sales that these markets can offer. It is not a list of auctions each of which has been confirmed.
| Location | Auction categories to explore |
| New York, USA | Contemporary art, modern art, design and collectibles |
| London, UK | Fine art, jewellery, watches and specialist collections |
| Hong Kong | Asian art, jewellery, watches and luxury collectibles |
| Paris, France | Fine art, decorative arts and design |
| Geneva, Switzerland | Selected watches, jewellery and luxury sales |
| Abu Dhabi, UAE | Collectors’ Week, fine art, watches, jewellery, handbags and cars |
How to Find Upcoming Auction Dates
The most convenient way to locate a particular auction is to use Sotheby’s official auction calendar.
You can make a search by the date, location, category and sale format. Once you have located an auction, click on it to see the starting time, the number of items being auctioned, registration rules and the type of bidding options.
Please note that auctions and catalogues are subject to change; please check before you travel or place a bid.
Live Auctions vs Online Auctions
Depending on the sale, there are various ways to participate at Sotheby’s.
Live auction – Bids are taken in a saleroom by an auctioneer. The purchasers can come in person to the sale or they can be present online, if the sale allows it.
At an online auction, the bidders, who are eligible, place their bids via Sotheby’s online auction site. Some online sales have a set bidding time period while others feature live bidding in addition to an actual auction.
Please note that the sale page will specify which format to use and the time zone for bidding.
Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week 2026: Dates, Location and Highlights
One of the key auctions taking place in the UAE for December 2026 is Sotheby’s Collectors’ Week. The second edition will feature a collection of fine art and luxury collectibles, with Sotheby’s holding its first international auction for fine art in Abu Dhabi.
It will be held December 4-10, including public exhibitions ahead of the main auctions.
When Is Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi Auction 2026?
The following dates have been scheduled for publication:
| Date | Event |
| December 4, 2026 | Public exhibitions open |
| December 9, 2026 | Five luxury auctions |
| December 10, 2026 | Breaking Ground fine art auction |
Exhibition times and entry arrangements will be subject to change and should be verified with visitors prior to their attendance for auctions and exhibitions.
Where Will Sotheby’s Auctions Take Place in Abu Dhabi?
The Saadiyat Grove Experience Centre, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi, will host Collectors’ Week.
The Saadiyat Island is famous for its cultural attractions and museums. Anyone intending to attend should ensure they read the directions, parking and access conditions on the venue before travelling.
The public exhibitions will allow the public to see selected artworks and other luxury items prior to the auctions. The programme will also feature cultural events, discussions and masterclasses.
What Auctions Are Scheduled in Abu Dhabi?
The programme includes six auctions, with luxury and fine art departments.
Icons of Elegance: Handbags
There are collectible luxury handbags being sold at this sale. For those looking for designer accessories, you can check the lists, conditon information and estimates listed in the auction catalogue.
Shapes of Cartier: Watches
The watch enthusiasts can enjoy a special collection of Cartier watches. Always consult the catalogue for details of individual models, production dates, condition reports, estimates.
Colour & Splendour: Jewellery
It is an auction of fine jewellery, such as diamond and coloured gemstone jewellery. The descriptions, gemstone information and documentation, if available, should be looked at by the buyer.
The Statement: Bicycles
This sale is for high performance bikes and collectible designs. Those who are interested are advised to check out specifications, condition, and any conditions of transportation following purchase.
Driven by Design: Cars
The car sale will take place on December 9, courtesy of RM Sotheby’s. It is a chance to visit select collectible vehicles, which will have details in each vehicle listing, including mileage, service history, originality and estimates.
Breaking Ground: Fine Art
Breaking Ground will be Sotheby’s inaugural international fine art auction in Abu Dhabi, on December 10. In addition to Middle Eastern and Emirati artists, the sale will include artists from around the world.
These works will likely be related to the UAE’s cultural heritage and broader evolution of the region’s modern art.
Why Is Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week Important?
The programme is especially important for Abu Dhabi’s art scene in the wake of the inclusion of an international fine art auction.
The event features world-class artists, local creative talents and luxury collectibles in a single programme. It also provides an insight into auction activity overseas for local collectors without the need to cross borders to a different large auction centre.
The public exhibitions provide an opportunity to see selected pieces even if not buying, an opportunity for the art enthusiast.
Sotheby’s Auction 2026 Highlights: Art, Watches, Jewellery and Cars
Each highlight varies by the type of lot(s) in its catalogue. Consumers should not base their expectations on general prices but on published estimates and descriptions of the items they are purchasing.
Fine Art and Contemporary Art
Fine art auctions may comprise paintings, works on paper, drawings and sculptures of different eras. The artists of contemporary art sales can be well known international or more local artists who might still be gaining recognition.
In Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week, the Breaking Ground sale is anticipated to feature Middle Eastern artists, as well as some of the world’s most esteemed artists, including Claude Monet and Andy Warhol.
When examining a piece of art, take into account the art’s provenance, condition, exhibition history, authenticity documentation, and estimated price. The information provided will give you a context to the work that you are bidding on.
Luxury Watches
Rare and collectible watches are purchased by people who appreciate craftsmanship, design and limited production models.
Prior to considering a watch auction, check for the model number, the period of manufacture, condition, service records, any documents and original packaging if available.
It is not always the case that a recognized brand will have a defined resale value. Buyer interest may vary depending on the rarity, originality, condition and market demand.
Jewellery and Diamonds
Items such as diamond jewellery, coloured gemstones, historic collections, and signed designs are among the many items that can be part of a jewellery auction.
These features can be particularly important: gemstone weight, colour, clarity, cut, type of metal and any grading reports available. It is important to see if the catalogue indicates a piece is signed, antique or by a specific designer.
Estimated prices are indicative and not absolute values. The outcome will be contingent on the auctioning and the sale’s conditions.
Luxury Handbags and Collectibles
Some collectible handbags might be of interest due to their scarcity, designs, condition, and production history.
Review the catalogue for information about materials, dimensions, wear, repairs, accessories and authenticity documentation. These factors can impact desirability and price estimates.
Depending on the auctioneering programme, other collectible items may include decorative items, memorabilia or specialist collections.
Collectible Cars
RM Sotheby’s specialise in collector-car auctions, which may feature classic cars, modern performance cars and limited-production cars.
Prior to bidding, look at the mileage, maintenance history, car ownership history, originality and condition of the vehicle. Other factors that the buyer should take into consideration include inspection arrangements, transport, insurance and registration.
The price quoted is not a final price for the car.
Most Anticipated Sotheby’s Auctions in Late 2026
Buyers are advised to pay attention to the sales date that are announced in the official calendar instead of the past sales.
November 2026 Auctions
Sotheby’s has sales in a number of cities and in a number of categories. If you are interested in buying at November auctions, please refer to the calendar for the last confirmed auction dates and specific sale catalogues.
Before planning, check out the category, venue, bidding format and registration deadline and available lots.
December 2026 Auctions
December is a pivotal time of the year for Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week.
The programme features luxury auctions on 9 December and Breaking Ground fine art auction on 10 December. The public is expected to see the exhibitions on December 4.
Other sales could be made in Sotheby’s International Markets in December. Look on the calendar for their current status and details.
How to Follow New Auction Announcements
Be sure to follow the auction calendar and the pages of each sale for new sales. New catalogues and any changes to exhibition schedules may also be viewed.
Narrowing your search to a specific artist, watchmaker, jewellery designer or vehicle manufacturer can help you locate relevant lots if you’re interested in a specific brand.
How to Register for Sotheby’s Auction 2026
Taking the time to register in a sale is an important step. The requirements may differ depending on the auction and the item you wish to buy.
Step 1: Create a Sotheby’s Account
Go to the Sotheby’s official website and register with your information. Fill out your profile as fully and as accurately as possible and fill in any required information.
Ensure that your account details are correct, as it may be necessary to approve your registration and payment plans.
Step 2: Choose an Auction
Check out the auction calendar to find the auction event you want to be at. Visit the auction site to see what it is offering on the auction page, what date and time it will be held, and what the bidding process will look like.
See if they allow online, telephone, absentee or physical bidding.
Step 3: Register to Bid
Click the Register button on the appropriate auction page and the instructions will be provided.
Financial verification or approval may be required for some sales or lots. Do all the steps requested well before the auction begins.
Step 4: Review the Auction Rules
Read the relevant conditions of business prior to bidding. Be sure to notice the buyer’s premium, payment terms, taxes, collection terms and any other limitations that may pertain to the lot.
If you register for one sale, it does not imply that you are registered for all other auctions.
How to Bid at Sotheby’s Online or In Person
There are several ways of bidding offered by Sotheby’s, depending on the specific auction.
Online Bidding
Online bidding enables registered buyers to bid from a distance from Sotheby’s website.
Once registered and approved you can follow the auction and bid based on the options available. When bidding from another country, always take into account the sale’s closing time and time zone.
In-Person Bidding
If the auction takes place in a saleroom, the registered buyers may be permitted to place a bid by raising a paddle or when the auctioneer specifies it.
Come early enough to make all necessary checks and familiar with the auction process.
Telephone Bidding
Some sales may be held by telephone. During the auction, the registered bidder is called by a representative to relay bids as the corresponding lot is about to come in.
Availability and approvals may vary, please make this an advance arrangement.
Absentee Bidding
An absentee bid is a bid made by a buyer prior to an auction. Sotheby’s can make the highest bid up to the auction maximum for the buyer, if available, in accordance with the rules of the auction.
If someone else bids more than that bidder then the absentee bidder may not get the lot.
Tips for First-Time Bidders
Have a budget in mind before you enter. Be aware of the buyer’s premium, taxes, delivery costs and other potential costs, in addition to the buyer’s displayed estimate.
If there are any questions, read the condition report beforehand and ask them before bidding. You also want to determine the highest price you are willing to pay before bidding and don’t raise it just because someone else is bidding.
Sotheby’s Auction Fees and Payment Methods
The bidder for the winning bid is not necessarily the ultimate bidder. Purchasers should be aware of extra fees prior to bidding.
What Is a Buyer’s Premium?
A buyer’s premium is added to the hammer price of the item by the successful buyer. The selling price, rate and any associated auction terms will dictate the applicable rate.
Sotheby’s auctions in the UAE publish a buyer’s premium of 28% on the hammer price, up to and including US2million, 22% on the portion from US2 million to US8 million and 15% on the portion exceeding US8 million. These rates are without local taxes and without any applicable artist resale charges – the buyer is advised to check the rates in force for their sale.
For instance, if the price of a product is AED 10,000 before all the charges are calculated, then a buyer premium of 28% would result in an additional charge of AED 2,800. The total without taxes and other fees would be AED 12,800.
This is a typical example only – please verify the rate and the method of calculation with the conditions of business for the actual purchase.
What Other Costs Should Buyers Consider?
Other costs may apply for the following:
- Applicability of taxes and duties.
- Shipping, packing and insurance.
- Import and export customs taxes.
- Late-payment or storage fees (if applicable).
- Costs for transporting and registering collectible automobiles.
How Can You Check Payment Rules?
Check the individual auction page and conditions of business to know how to pay.
Look for the accepted payment methods, invoice due date, currency and collection information. Additional fees might be charged by the bank or payment provider of the international buyer, as well, so it is important to verify.
Can You Visit a Sotheby’s Auction Without Bidding?
Yes, there are public preview exhibitions at selected Sotheby’s events from which people can look at pieces prior to their sale. Access to the public will be subject to event and/or access arrangement.
Public Preview Exhibitions
Preview exhibitions enable visitors to view a selection of artworks, watches, jewellery and handbags in person.
This year, public exhibitions will be held at the Saadiyat Grove Experience Centre, Saadiyat Island from December 4, 2026, for Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week.
Please refer to the current entry requirements and timings before visiting.
Are Tickets or Reservations Required?
Admission may be subject to criteria. Access to some exhibitions or events may be by appointment or require preliminary registration.
Please see event information for opening times, visitor registration and restrictions.
What Can You See at an Exhibition?
Items on display are subject to the contents of the lots on sale. An exhibition can give a more detailed view of artwork, watch details, jewellery settings or condition of a collectible vehicle.
It may be helpful to see an item in person but it should not be a substitute for reading the catalogue and condition report.
Tips for Buying at Sotheby’s Auction in 2026
Research the Item Before Bidding
Read the lot description, and assess the lot’s condition and the available supporting documentation and provenance. If appropriate compare previous auctions for similar items; remember each item may be different.
Calculate the Total Purchase Cost
Work out your maximum total expenditure before placing a bid. Include the hammer price, buyer’s premium, taxes, shipping and all other costs, if applicable.
Review the Condition Report
Not all items may be illustrated in photographs and these may not exhibit all details of an item’s condition. Take time to read the report over and ask any questions if necessary.
If it is permitted, arrange an inspection for cars. In the case of watches and jewellery, check out the technical and gemological information available.
Check Authenticity and Documentation
Carefully read the catalogue and look through the documents for the lot. When in doubt about origin or authenticity, ask the auction specialist prior to bidding.
Plan Shipping and Delivery
International buyers are advised to check the possibility of shipping to their country and whether there are any export or import restrictions in effect.
The handling, insurance and transportation needs for large artworks, jewellery, watches and vehicles can vary.
Keep Track of Deadlines
Register on time, record the time of the auction, set up payment and collection deadlines. The following measures can be taken to avoid unnecessary issues once the bid is won.
Conclusion
Sotheby’s Auction 2026 allows for the discovery of fine art, luxury timepieces, jewellery, handbags and collectible vehicles, among other special categories, at global auctions.
Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week is a significant event for collectors and visitors based in the UAE, featuring public exhibitions starting on December 4 and six remarkable auctions set for December 9 and 10. This edition is especially significant for the area given the Breaking Ground fine art auction.
Please read the official auction calendar for availability, see the individual catalogue and familiarise yourself with the fees. There are a number of ways to make auctions at Sotheby’s more confident, by early registration, thorough research and a well-defined budget.
FAQs About Sotheby’s Auction 2026
When is the next Sotheby’s auction in 2026?
Sotheby’s auctions are held all year round and the next auction will vary based on category and location. Please consult the auction calendar for the upcoming auctions and registration deadlines.
Where will Sotheby’s auctions take place in 2026?
Sotheby’s represents clients in the sale of art in New York, London, Hong Kong, Paris, Geneva and Abu Dhabi and elsewhere. There are also some auctions that are online. Review each sale page to see how it is sold and what its format is.
When is Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi auction in 2026?
Sotheby’s Collectors’ Week will be held from December 4th to 10th, 2026. The public exhibitions will begin on December 4, five luxury auctions will take place on December 9 and Breaking Ground’s fine art auction will be on December 10.
How can I register for Sotheby’s auction?
Register on Sotheby’s website for the appropriate auction and go through the registration process. You may be asked to provide extra financial verification or approval for some sales/lots before bidding.
Can I bid at Sotheby’s auction online?
Yes. Sotheby’s offers online bidding for eligible auctions. Registration is necessary for the particular sale and must comply with the registration requirements before one may bid.
Is Sotheby’s auction open to the public?
Visitors can access selected preview exhibitions, depending on the exhibition access policy. There is a registration and approval process for participating in the auction.
Do I need a ticket to visit Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi exhibition?
Please read the current event details for entry, visitor registration and exhibition times. Arrangements are subject to change, so please check before travelling to Saadiyat Island.
What fees does Sotheby’s charge buyers?
Buyers are responsible for paying a buyer’s premium in addition to the hammer price, applicable taxes, shipping, insurance, and other costs. Actual costs will depend on the sale and conditions of business.
Can beginners buy from Sotheby’s?
Yes. First time buyers are welcome if they register for the auction. Beginners should take the time to read the catalogue, know what extra costs are to be expected and set a limit on how much they are willing to bid.
How can I find the results of Sotheby’s 2026 auctions?
Look into the appropriate auction website and Sotheby’s posted results. Results shown, if any, may include the final auction sale price and be related to the final auction.
