Mural, mural on the wall makes Dubai the prettiest city of all

Public art is a core element of Dubai’s broader arts ecosystem. Through diverse projects, the emirate continues to showcase its undeniable appeal and the vibrancy of its art scene, projecting its diverse and exceptional aesthetic side. Dubai is home to inspiring works, installations and murals that support the strength of its Public Art Strategy – an initiative to transform the city into an open-air art gallery, accessible to all.

The vision aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which seeks to achieve sustainable urban development centered around people, while reinforcing the emirate’s position as a priority destination for living, working and leisure, as well as being a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.

Through the mural projects being implemented across various areas in the city, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) aims to support creatives and talent, ignite their innovation, and enable them to contribute to turning Dubai’s neighbourhoods, public spaces and districts, into inspiring cultural and tourism destinations.

The murals reflect the emirate’s distinct identity and fosters a civil and interactive space between artists and audiences, from numerous nationalities and cultures. It also helps establish a sustainable environment that encourages artists to pursue their passion, express themselves, engage with the community, raise public artistic taste, and beautify living and working areas. The initiative is in line with the goals of Dubai’s Creative Economy Strategy and supports Dubai Culture’s sectoral priorities and responsibilities in strengthening cultural and creative industries. Recently, the Authority completed the presentation of a wide range of mural artworks.

Ahmed Amine Aitouche at work.

Among the most notable projects is the heritage-inspired, gypsum mural adorning the facade of the Al Safa Art and Design Library, created by Lebanese artist Chafa Ghaddar. The work depicts the city’s diversity and vibrancy, reimagining the original architecture of the library and showcasing the aesthetic and precision of Islamic ornamentation that once adorned the building before it underwent comprehensive restoration. Ghaddar used the classic Azulejos ceramic technique - a key element of Portuguese architectural styling influenced by Islamic, Chinese, and Spanish art. In another case, UAE-based Argentinian Yubran Gosne (aka Sanctum), created the mural ‘The Tide’ in Umm Suqeim Park, drawing on the movement of waves and the meeting of water and sand, echoing Dubai’s deep-rooted connection to the sea.

It consists of a large four-part panel using shades of green, blue and turquoise to express the relationship between water and land. Meanwhile, Algerian artist Ahmed Amine Aitouche (Sneak Hotep) is responsible for the mural ‘Amalgamation’ in Nad Al Sheba Park, made up of three surfaces seamlessly painted to appear as one. Through it, the artist reflects how Dubai embodies cultural coexistence and balance between tradition and modernity, freedom and discipline, and how the balance contributes to both urban and social growth. Set in Abu Hail Park, Aitouche’s ‘Epitome’ is a silent message for all striving to become better versions of themselves every day.

One of the earliest permanent public artworks in Al Quoz Creative Zone was ‘Unified’, a collaborative mural by Tunisian calligraffiti artist Karim Jabbari and American designer Jaime Brown. Created five years ago, the piece signalled a shift in the district’s evolution from an industrial zone to a cultural destination. Inspired by the words of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai, the mural reflects on how art transcends language and background to bring people together. Developed through on-site improvisation and community dialogue, it fuses Arabic calligraphy and contemporary design, capturing the spirit of Al Quoz Creative Zone as a place where heritage and innovation meet in public and for general view.

Chafa Ghaddar before her installation.

During the Sikka Art and Design Festival, a flagship initiative under Dubai’s Quality of Life Strategy, Dubai Culture presents a collection of inspiring murals that provide a platform for artists to express their visions and perspectives, every year. The 13th edition of the festival, held last February in the Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, featured 13 murals distinguished by their artistic styles and innovative ideas. Through colour, movement and form, the artworks explored themes central to the city’s ongoing social and cultural evolution, including the role of Emirati women in shaping its identity.

Murals are one of the most expressive elements of Dubai’s modern cultural landscape. They bridge eras, perspectives and communities. Dubai Culture, as a body which promotes this form of art among many others, continues its work in public spaces with governmental initiatives that support new districts and neighbourhoods, presenting fresh surfaces for artists to explore. The artworks that ensue undoubtedly bring colour to the city, create enduring moments of connection and provide memorable experiences.

According to AI, murals, which are large artworks painted directly onto walls, can play a significant role in a city’s identity and culture. They can express community history and values, and also help preserve local traditions. They add colour, texture, and dimension to buildings, streets and public areas, making them more inviting and visually appealing. This, in turn, improves the quality of life for the community and helps attract visitors, which have positive social and economic benefits for the community. Cities with significant mural art often become tourist destinations. Murals also bring people together, creating a sense of community. Many murals are created through collaborative efforts that involve local artists, residents and community organisations. The collaborative process helps build relationships, fosters a sense of ownership over public spaces, and inspires pride in community.