Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, in cooperation with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority, has launched an open call for artists to take part in transforming more than 40 tunnels across the emirate into inspiring art spaces. The initiative invites creative works that express Dubai’s identity, highlight its authenticity, and reflect its cultural diversity.
The project comes as part of the two entities’ efforts to support the strategy of art in public spaces, beautify road infrastructure, and turn Dubai into an open art gallery for residents and visitors. It also strengthens the emirate’s position as a global cultural hub, a home for creativity, and a meeting point for talent.
An Initiative Supporting Art in Public Spaces
The initiative falls under the strategic partnership between Dubai Culture and the Roads and Transport Authority, which aims to integrate art into infrastructure in line with the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The plan focuses on sustainable urban development and places people at the center of the city’s growth.
The initiative also reflects Dubai Culture’s commitment to empowering local and resident talent, while opening wider opportunities for artists, designers, and creative practitioners. In doing so, it supports the continued growth of the creative economy in the emirate.
This new open call builds on the success of the first and second phases of the Dubai Tunnels initiative, which saw the creation of distinctive artworks that added aesthetic value to a number of key locations.
Applications Open from May 11 to June 15
Dubai Culture has invited Emirati artists and UAE-based practitioners, designers, and architects to submit innovative ideas and proposals that reflect the essence of Dubai and highlight the energy of the local art scene.
Applications will be accepted from May 11 until June 15. Submitted works will be reviewed and shortlisted according to several criteria, including the quality of the artwork, the level of innovation and creativity, the connection of the concept to Dubai’s identity, and the feasibility and sustainability of implementation.
Participation Requirements for the Dubai Tunnels Initiative
Proposals must present original and contemporary ideas that have not been previously produced or displayed. They should reflect local cultural diversity in an innovative way and be suitable for the traffic environment inside tunnels.
The works must also maintain a balanced use of colors and avoid texts or visual effects that could distract road users.
Participants are required to use simple elements and durable materials that can withstand weather conditions and high temperatures. These may include ceramic tiles, graphic paints, resin, metals, and other suitable materials that help ensure the long-term sustainability of the artwork and make maintenance easier.
Applicants must also submit design files for the initiative, accompanied by a detailed explanation of the concept. Presentation boards should be included to show the visual direction of the proposed work and identify the approved color palette.
Enhancing Quality of Life in Dubai
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, said the Dubai Tunnels initiative contributes to supporting the cultural and creative industries, strengthening the presence of art in public spaces, and redefining the relationship between people and place.
She noted that the open call reflects Dubai Culture’s commitment to integrating art into daily life and expanding public access to creativity. By turning public areas into vibrant interactive spaces, the initiative helps strengthen community connection and improve quality of life in the emirate.
She added that the project provides an important platform to empower artists and practitioners, while opening new paths for creatives and entrepreneurs in the cultural sector. It gives them the opportunity to turn their ideas into artistic projects with a lasting community impact.
From Engineering Structures to Artistic Murals
For his part, Hussein Al Banna, CEO of the Traffic and Roads Agency at the Roads and Transport Authority, highlighted the importance of the partnership with Dubai Culture in adding an artistic character to Dubai’s tunnels. He said the initiative supports Dubai’s position as a city that celebrates cultural diversity and connects local identity with the spirit of the modern age.
He explained that the project helps transform tunnels from engineering structures into artistic murals that add a visual dimension to the urban landscape. It also supports efforts to improve quality of life and bring greater happiness to Dubai’s residents and visitors.
Al Banna added that through such initiatives, Dubai continues to confirm its status as a global city that is not only defined by its economy and advanced infrastructure, but also by the clear space it gives to creativity. The initiative allows artists to take part in showcasing the beauty of the city and strengthening its visual identity.
