Brand Dubai, in collaboration with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), has officially unveiled the Zayed and Rashid Mural, the world’s largest mosaic art installation in Hatta. The mural pays tribute to the memory of the UAE’s founding fathers, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.
The launch forms part of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, which celebrates key national occasions including Flag Day on November 3 to the 53rd Eid Al Etihad on December 2.
“This mural embodies the values of the Union while highlighting the pivotal role of the founding fathers in establishing the UAE and laying the foundations of comprehensive and sustainable development in the country,” stated Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, managing director and CEO of DEWA.
Highlighting Dubai’s cultural identity
The monumental 2,198.7 square meter Zayed and Rashid Mural on the slope of the Hatta Dam Water Falls recreates a historical photograph of the founding fathers dating back to the time of the foundation of the UAE. In addition, it replaces a mural on the Hatta Dam Water Falls that also honored the legacy of the UAE’s leaders. The mural has also been recognized by Guinness World Records as the world’s largest mosaic artwork.
The artwork forms part of the latest edition of the Dubai Street Museum that His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, launched in 2016 to highlight Dubai’s unique cultural identity, history, values, and aspirations by creating distinctive public artworks across the emirate.
“The Zayed and Rashid Mural at Hatta Dam is a tribute to the nation’s cultural identity and history, featuring the historic images of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, whose leadership laid the foundation for the UAE’s progress. This project stands as a testament to the power of art to inspire future generations, and reinforce the enduring values that have shaped our nation,” stated Mona Al Marri, director general of the government of Dubai Media Office.
Dubai Street Museum
The Zayed and Rashid Mural is part of the latest edition of the Dubai Street Museum. It aligns with Brand Dubai’s aim to create public artworks that not only tell the UAE’s remarkable story in powerful ways but also introduce iconic images that transform the community and visitors’ experience of key destinations. By working with both local and international artists, Brand Dubai seeks to launch projects that enrich public spaces through art and creativity.
The public art project was led by the Russian artist Sergey Korbasov, with the support of over 100 local and international artisans hailing from around the globe. They worked for over four months to handcraft the mosaic using 1.2 million individual pieces, each measuring 5 x 5 cm, in a remarkable demonstration of artistic excellence.
The waterfall cascading along the slope of the Hatta Dam adds another element of natural beauty to the installation. Crafted with innovative techniques, the mosaic’s color scheme is inspired by the traditional attire of the founding fathers, imbuing the artwork with both historical and emotional depth.
