Images: Dubai Media Office
Brand Dubai, in collaboration with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), officially unveiled the Zayed and Rashid Mural, the world’s largest mosaic artwork.
Located at the scenic Hatta Dam Water Falls, the monumental 2,198.7 square metre installation pays tribute to the UAE’s founding fathers, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, marking a significant milestone in the country’s cultural and artistic landscape.
The mural, recognised by Guinness World Records, is part of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, which celebrates pivotal national occasions, from Flag Day on November 3 to the 53rd Eid Al Etihad on December 2.
The artwork immortalises a historic photograph of the founding leaders during the UAE’s formation, emphasising their lasting legacy in shaping the nation.
Mosaic artwork honours UAE Founding Fathers
The Zayed and Rashid Mural stands as a powerful visual representation of the UAE’s heritage, capturing the spirit of unity and vision that guided the formation of the country.
This mosaic, which replaces an earlier mural on the Hatta Dam Water Falls, is designed to honour the visionaries behind the UAE’s establishment while symbolising the enduring values of the Union.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, managing director and CEO of DEWA, expressed his pride in the collaboration, stating, “This creative artwork features the images of the late Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, aligning with the #ZayedAndRashid campaign. It embodies the values of the Union, celebrating the pivotal role these leaders played in establishing the UAE and laying the foundations of sustainable development.”
Al Tayer also highlighted that the Hatta Dam, now a renowned tourist attraction, will be further enriched with this remarkable art project, alongside initiatives such as the development of a 250MW pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant — the first of its kind in the GCC region — showcasing Dubai’s leadership in innovation and sustainability.
Partnerships driving Dubai’s cultural growth
The Zayed and Rashid Mural is part of the Dubai Street Museum initiative, which was launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, in 2016.
The programme aims to elevate Dubai’s cultural identity through public art installations that highlight the city’s rich history, values, and aspirations.
Mona Al Marri, director general of the Government of Dubai Media Office, expressed her gratitude for the collaboration with DEWA, underscoring how such projects transform public spaces and connect the community to Dubai’s landmarks in innovative ways.
“Guided by the vision of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to turn Dubai into an open-air museum, we continue to develop public art initiatives that not only celebrate the UAE’s achievements but also embody our deep pride in the nation’s history and the enduring leadership of our founding fathers,” Al Marri remarked.
Artwork comprises 1.2 million pieces
The Zayed and Rashid Mural was led by renowned Russian artist Sergey Korbasov, who worked alongside more than 100 artisans from around the world.
Over the course of four months, the team painstakingly crafted the mosaic using 1.2 million individual pieces, each measuring 5×5 cm.
The project exemplifies artistic excellence and collaborative effort, with materials sourced from the Hatta region itself, including rocks and soil, ensuring the installation resonates with the local environment.
The artwork’s colour scheme draws inspiration from the traditional attire of the founding fathers, infusing the piece with historical and emotional depth.
Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Hajjar mountains and the cascading waterfall along the Hatta Dam, the mosaic mural becomes an immersive experience, blending nature with art in a seamless homage to the UAE’s heritage.
A legacy for future generations
Shaima Al Suwaidi, director of Brand Dubai, emphasised that the mural reflects the enduring values that continue to shape the nation.
“This mural stands as a testament to the vision of our founding fathers and the bright future they envisioned for generations to come. It also transforms the way we experience Hatta Dam, connecting visitors and locals to the story of the UAE in a meaningful and impactful way,” he said.