In a celebration of national identity woven with creativity, the exhibition “Emirati Art in ME” is captivating visitors at the ME Dubai by Meliá Hotel. Curated by Emirati art expert Abdullah Khalid Al Shamsi, the event unites four talented Emirati artists—Meitha Abdullah Al Rumaithi, Faris Al Hammadi, Ilham Khairallah, and Dana Hashem Al Junaibi—whose works span embroidery, textile art, painting, and photography.
The exhibition, running from June 26 to August 28, marks the launch of “Medad”, a new series of art showcases dedicated to spotlighting contemporary Emirati creativity. The name “Medad” carries deep resonance in Arabic, symbolizing continuity and connection between past, present, and future—perfectly reflecting the exhibition’s mission to bridge tradition and modern expression.
According to Al Shamsi, artists were selected based on the uniqueness of their work, their ability to convey personal artistic signatures, and their dedication to preserving Emirati heritage while exploring fresh narratives. The show embraces diversity in artistic styles, from heritage-inspired crafts such as weaving and sadu to evocative paintings and photographs capturing life in the UAE. By pairing established names with emerging talents, Medad fosters dialogue, mentorship, and shared inspiration.
The choice of venue is equally symbolic. Designed by the late world-renowned architect Zaha Hadid, ME Dubai offers a striking backdrop for the artworks. While the hotel has previously hosted international exhibitions, Medad is its first Emirati-led showcase—one that has received enthusiastic praise from both locals and international guests, who were drawn to its authentic depictions of Emirati life and culture.
The four featured artists each bring a distinct creative lens:
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Meitha Abdullah Al Rumaithi, a cinematographer and director, captures fleeting moments and intimate daily rituals through her camera, crafting visual stories that reflect the soul of the UAE while resonating with universal human experiences.
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Faris Al Hammadi, a fine artist, trainer, and founder of the Faris Al Hammadi Fine Arts Studio, is known for his expressive oil portraits and nature-inspired works. Combining traditional pigment-making techniques with academic precision, his paintings carry layers of identity, memory, and craftsmanship.
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Ilham Khairallah, a visual artist and co-founder of Sajadna textile center, revives traditional crafts while reimagining them for modern contexts. Her textile pieces explore themes of women, the environment, and generational heritage, transforming fabric into a living dialogue between past and present.
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Dana Hashem Al Junaibi, a contemporary embroidery artist, turns fine stitches into architectural patterns and rhythmic compositions. Her works reframe embroidery as a modern visual language, infused with intimacy, geometry, and personal symbolism.
Looking ahead, Medad will extend its reach with future exhibitions in various locations across the UAE, continuing its mission to champion Emirati artistry and preserve the nation’s cultural legacy in fresh, contemporary forms.
This debut show is more than an exhibition—it is a cultural bridge, carrying the threads of history into the vibrant tapestry of today’s art scene.
