The Gulf Art Fair in Dubai has been a milestone in the development of the new arts scene in the Gulf region. Two years ago nearly 9000 visitors attended the first fair. This year's show of international contemporary art will run from March 18 to March 21. The 2009 art fair has been synchronized with the ninth Biennial in the nearby capital of the Emirate of Sharjah. What role can art play during the financial crisis? How is the art world responding to the new economic climate? Our reporter takes a look behind the scenes of the art world in the Gulf.