Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, has partnered with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA) to unveil the Zayed and Rashid Mural, the world's largest mosaic art installation. Situated in Hatta, this monumental artwork honours the UAE’s founding fathers, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. The unveiling is part of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, celebrating national milestones such as Flag Day (3 November) and the 53rd Eid Al Etihad (2 December).
The Zayed and Rashid Mural: A Historic Tribute in Hatta
Covering an area of 2,198.7sqm, the Zayed and Rashid Mural is located on the scenic slope of the Hatta Dam Water Falls. The artwork reimagines a historic photograph of the two founding fathers from the early years of the UAE. This incredible mosaic replaces an earlier mural at the site, which also paid tribute to the leaders’ legacy. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the largest mosaic artwork in the world, the mural stands as a lasting tribute to the vision and leadership of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid.
Dubai Street Museum: A Cultural Landmark
The Zayed and Rashid Mural is part of the Dubai Street Museum, an initiative launched in 2016 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This ongoing project aims to enhance Dubai’s cultural identity by showcasing public art installations across the emirate. The mural represents a key addition to the growing collection of artworks designed to reflect Dubai's history, heritage, and vision for the future.
A Collaborative Effort to Honour the UAE’s Founding Fathers
The partnership between Brand Dubai and DEWA highlights their shared commitment to creating public art that connects the community with iconic landmarks. His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, Managing Director and CEO of DEWA, stated, “We work in line with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, to make Hatta a prominent tourist and investment destination, while preserving its rich heritage and captivating natural beauty. We were honoured to contribute to this creative artwork, which features the images of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. This aligns with the #ZayedAndRashid campaign launched by Brand Dubai under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, to celebrate key national occasions in the UAE. 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.”
Sustainability and Innovation in Hatta
His Excellency Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer also highlighted Hatta’s growing significance as a hub for sustainable projects. “In addition to its status as a leading tourist destination, Hatta Dam has become a platform for commemorating the history of the UAE and the vision of our founding fathers, which continues to inspire sustainable development. We are implementing a 250MW pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant at Hatta Dam, the first of its kind in the GCC region, in addition to other sustainable projects that demonstrate Dubai’s leadership in innovation and sustainability, while supporting the vision of our wise leadership to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.”
Celebrating UAE Heritage Through Public Art
Mona Al Marri, Director General of the Government of Dubai Media Office, thanked DEWA for their continued partnership with Brand Dubai in creating transformative public art projects. “Guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to transform Dubai into an open-air museum that conveys the city’s rich heritage and creative spirit, we continue to develop public art initiatives that embody our deep pride in the nation’s achievements and our commitment to the vision of the UAE’s founding fathers. 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,” Al Marri said.
Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, added, "We are delighted to partner with the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority to unveil the Zayed and Rashid Mural, the world’s largest mosaic on Hatta Dam. True to the spirit of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, this mural serves as a testament to the enduring values of our nation and honours the UAE’s founding fathers whose vision continues to create a bright future for generations to come. The project, part of the latest edition of the Dubai Street Museum, is aligned 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, we seek to launch projects that enrich public spaces through art and creativity.”
A Global Effort to Create the Largest Mosaic Artwork
The Zayed and Rashid Mural was designed by Russian artist Sergey Korbasov, with the help of over 100 local and international artisans. Together, they spent more than four months meticulously handcrafting the mosaic, using 1.2 million pieces, each measuring 5x5 cm. This collaborative effort demonstrates the global reach and cultural exchange behind the artwork.
The materials used in the mosaic incorporate elements from the surrounding Hatta region, such as rocks and soil, which connect the artwork to the local environment. The natural backdrop of the Hatta Dam waterfall further enhances the mural's dramatic setting, while the colour palette reflects the traditional attire of the UAE’s founding fathers, imbuing the artwork with both historical and emotional depth.
The Legacy of the Zayed and Rashid Mural
The Zayed and Rashid Mural not only stands as a record-breaking work of art but also as a symbol of the UAE’s journey from its founding to its modern achievements. It serves as a powerful reminder of the leadership, vision, and values that have shaped the country into what it is today.