Zayed And Rashid Mural Unveiled As World's Largest Mosaic Artwork In Hatta

The Zayed and Rashid Mural, the largest mosaic art installation globally, has been unveiled in Hatta by Brand Dubai and the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA). This artwork honours the UAE's founding fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. It is part of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, celebrating national occasions from Flag Day on 3 November to Eid Al Etihad on 2 December.

The mural, measuring 2,198.7 square metres, adorns the slope of the Hatta Dam Water Falls. It recreates a historical photograph of the UAE's founding fathers from the time of the nation's formation. Recognised by Guinness World Records as the world's largest mosaic artwork, it replaces a previous mural that also celebrated UAE leaders' legacy.

This impressive artwork is part of the Dubai Street Museum project initiated by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 2016. The project aims to showcase Dubai’s cultural identity through unique public artworks across the city. The collaboration between Brand Dubai and DEWA highlights their commitment to enhancing public spaces with creative projects.

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." He emphasised that this mural aligns with the #ZayedAndRashid campaign's goals.

Hatta Dam now serves as a platform for commemorating UAE history and its founding fathers' vision. DEWA is implementing a 250MW pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant at Hatta Dam, marking a first in the GCC region. These initiatives highlight Dubai’s leadership in innovation and sustainability while supporting carbon neutrality goals for 2050.

Mona Al Marri, Director General of the Government of Dubai Media Office, expressed appreciation for DEWA's partnership with Brand Dubai. She noted how these collaborations have transformed community engagement with Dubai’s landmarks. "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," she said.

Artistic Excellence at Hatta

The mural was crafted under Russian artist Sergey Korbasov's leadership with over 100 artisans worldwide contributing. They spent four months creating this masterpiece using 1.2 million pieces each measuring 5 x 5 cm. The mosaic incorporates natural materials from Hatta like rocks and soil ensuring it resonates with local heritage.

Shaima Al Suwaidi from Brand Dubai expressed delight in partnering with DEWA for this project. She highlighted how it embodies enduring national values while honouring UAE’s founding fathers’ vision for future generations. The initiative aligns with Brand Dubai’s goal to enrich public spaces through art.

The waterfall cascading along Hatta Dam adds natural beauty to this installation. Crafted using innovative techniques inspired by traditional attire colours worn by founding fathers gives historical depth to this artwork set against stunning Hajar mountains backdrop.

With inputs from WAM