New public artworks to be shown across Dubai

The beautification project invites artists from around the world to contribute

Mattar Al Tayer, director general and chairman of the Roads and Transport Authority, and Mona Al Marri, director general of the Government of Dubai Media Office

Artists from across the world have been invited to contribute to a new initiative, which will increase the amount of public artwork on display in Dubai.

It is hoped that the three-year project, which is expected to feature 35 new artworks, and which was confirmed on Tuesday after the Government of Dubai Media Office (GDMO) agreed a deal with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), will help visitors and residents connect with the city.

Brand Dubai, the creative branch of GDMO, will lead this initiative, which will include murals, sculptures and mixed media installations. The public artworks will be displayed on bridges, tunnels, walking tracks, bus stops and other public areas.

"This is part of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum's vision to turn Dubai into an open musuem, which reflects the culture and identity of the city through creative artwork and colorful narratives," Nehal Badri, director of Brand Dubai, told The National. "It is about showcasing the spirit of Dubai and supporting the arts."

The artworks – the first of which is scheduled to be unveiled in October – will be on display across the city. The names of the artists involved have not yet been announced.

"Through unique artworks, ranging from murals to installations, we seek to tap into Dubai's unique spirit, character and heritage, and in the process inspire greater engagement, inclusiveness and innovation in the community," said Badri. "These artistic creations will look at Dubai's culture and history, and its ambitions and aspirations from a fresh viewpoint."

Mattar Al Tayer, director-general and chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of RTA, said: “RTA is keen to ensure that all its projects incorporate an aesthetic dimension. The unique designs of the Shindagha bridge, which features an architectural arch in the shape of the symbol for infinity, the oval-shaped ‘Bridge of Tolerance’, and the Dubai Metro stations are examples of this."

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Mona Al Merri, director-general of the Government of Dubai Media Office, said: “The collaboration with RTA to launch beautification projects across the city is aligned with the vision of His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to turn Dubai into an open-air museum that celebrates art, creativity and aesthetic excellence.

“We thank RTA for partnering with us to deliver this project and their commitment for this initiative that aims to revitalise public spaces in our city. Both our organisations bring significant capabilities to this partnership. By combining our strengths, we have a great opportunity to further enhance the artistic and cultural environment of Dubai.”