Dubai has revealed a striking large-scale artwork on the façade of the DIFC Gate Building as part of the National Month celebrations
As part of Dubai’s National Month campaign launched by His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council, Brand Dubai — the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office — has partnered with the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) to unveil a monumental public artwork adorning the iconic Gate Building.
The large-scale installation pays tribute to the UAE’s Founding Fathers, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Serving as a centrepiece of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, now running for its second year, the artwork celebrates the legacy of the Union and the nation’s enduring path of achievement from its formation to the present day. National Month runs from UAE Flag Day on 3 November to the 54th Eid Al Etihad on 2 December.
Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, expressed pride in continuing the partnership with DIFC for a third consecutive year, noting that the collaboration enables Dubai to honour key national milestones through creative expression.
“We take pride in our renewed partnership with DIFC to mark major national occasions through artistic works that express our deep gratitude to the founding leaders Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid, who together laid the foundations of the Union,” she said.
Al Suwaidi also praised Emirati artist Ahmed BaFadhl, who designed the artwork.
“His creative vision captures a sense of belonging and national pride. The artwork blends portraits of the Founding Fathers with elements reflecting the UAE’s progress in science and space, embodying both today’s achievements and tomorrow’s ambitions,” she added.
A Shared Vision for Dubai’s Future
Alya Al Zarouni, Chief Operating Officer at DIFC, said the collaboration reflects shared values rooted in heritage, leadership and innovation.
“DIFC is delighted to partner with Brand Dubai once again to honour the legacy of the Founding Fathers. The stunning artwork on The Gate Building blends heritage with future aspirations and symbolises how economic leadership and innovation are anchored in strong national foundations,” she said.
Member of the #ZayedAndRashid Campaign Organising Committee, Amina Taher, highlighted the power of art to convey national identity.
“This creative artwork exemplifies how art can communicate a message of loyalty and belonging. It celebrates the Founding Fathers while reflecting the lasting impact of their legacy on the nation’s present and future,” she said.
Taher noted that the campaign’s creative projects — from murals to community initiatives — continue to strengthen the younger generation’s connection to the nation’s history and values.
Symbolism and Scale
Standing 50 metres high, the artwork transforms the Gate Building into a monumental tribute. It features prominent symbols including the Hope Probe, Etihad-SAT, Rashid Rover 2 and the Mohammed bin Rashid Space Centre’s Rashid Rover. These elements illustrate the UAE’s journey from unification to leadership in space exploration, underscoring its commitment to innovation and progress.
A Continuing Celebration of National Heritage
The #ZayedAndRashid campaign, organised by Brand Dubai with partners across government, semi-government and private sectors, honours the historic meeting in Al Khawaneej that paved the way for the Union. Activities and installations will continue across Dubai throughout National Month, reflecting the unity and deep-rooted heritage of Emirati society.
About the Artist
Emirati artist Ahmed BaFadhl is an architect and visual creator known for work that captures the spirit of the UAE’s landscape and identity. Influenced by his late grandfather, he blends simplicity with imagination, evolving from pencil and coffee sketches to digital art that weaves together emotion, heritage and national pride.
