Dubai Culture and RTA Honour the Legacy of Sheikh Zayed with ‘Al Amanah’ mural in Al Khawaneej
Delivered in collaboration with Tashkeel, the mural stands opposite the Sheikh Zayed Farm as a landmark of national memory
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 27 March 2026: Paying tribute to the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, may his soul rest in peace, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) have unveiled ‘Al Amanah,’ a Sheikh Zayed Memorial. The mural, delivered in collaboration with Tashkeel, honors the founding father and his role in laying the foundations of the Union; while celebrating the values he instilled in society and their enduring impact on the UAE and its people.
The project, which is implemented at the intersection of Al Amardi Street and Al Khawaneej Street — the road leading to Sheikh Zayed’s Farm in Al Khawaneej 2 — forms part of RTA’s support for the UAE Centennial 2071, which aims to build a cohesive society and instil the values of tolerance, solidarity, humility, respect, and loyalty to the nation among its people. The project also advances Dubai Culture’s Public Art Strategy, through which the RTA transforms Dubai into an open, accessible global art gallery, reinforcing the emirate’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.
‘Al Amanah – a Sheikh Zayed Memorial’ project is a pioneering cultural and national achievement that embodies the concepts of giving and resilience rooted in Sheikh Zayed’s journey. Inspired by his deep appreciation for heritage and traditional crafts, the artwork symbolically reflects the planting of a seed whose benefit extends across generations. Through this initiative, Dubai Culture aims to transform Al Khawaneej into a cultural destination that bridges heritage and modernity, offering audiences a comprehensive visual and creative journey that connects the past with the present and an exploration into the Emirati identity and values, while fostering a stronger sense of belonging among future generations.
With concept and design by Emirati artist Maitha Demithan, and painted by Croatian portrait artist Lonac, the piece depicts two open hands gently holding a key shaped as a palm tree. The key references the gate key of Sheikh Zayed’s Farm and serves as a powerful metaphor for legacy as a trust — an amanah — passed from one generation to the next. Flanked by palm trees standing as guardians of identity and witnesses to the enduring bond between people and land, the composition invites contemplation of shared responsibility and the duty to protect what has been built.
Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, said: “‘Al Amanah’ memorial exemplifies the power of public art to preserve national memory and transform it into a lived experience within the urban space. It translates our Founding Father’s vision into a contemporary visual language that resonates across the community and deepens a shared sense of belonging. As a significant addition to our Public Art Strategy, the project reflects our commitment to empowering talent, supporting the cultural and creative industries, and strengthening Dubai’s position as a global hub for the creative economy.”
RTA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting ‘Al Amanah – Sheikh Zayed Memorial’ project as part of its community role in contributing to national initiatives. The project also reflects the integration of government efforts to incorporate artistic elements within infrastructure and vital facilities, strengthen the presence of Emirati heritage in infrastructure, and reinforce the legacy of the founding leaders for future generations.
RTA implemented the mural as part of the development works on the road leading to Sheikh Zayed’s Farm. Pedestrian walkways were provided along the entire stretch of the road from the Al Amardi–Al Khawaneej intersection towards the farm. The project also included the development of several rest areas and a main flexible mobility hub near the commercial area. In collaboration with its strategic partners, RTA supported the implementation of the artistic mural due to the historical and national significance of the site, with its themes inspired by the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan.
The mural also represents a distinctive visual landmark that enhances the cultural identity of the area and supports the city’s beautification objectives, in line with the directions of Dubai’s Urban Appearance Committee. This contributes to improving the quality of the visual environment and reinforcing an integrated urban image befitting Dubai’s standing.
Bakhita Ghanim AlMansoori, General Manager at Tashkeel, said: “At Tashkeel, we believe that art has the power to connect communities with their history, values, and shared future. Our collaboration on the ‘Al Amanah’ mural reflects our commitment to supporting artists in creating works that carry cultural meaning while engaging with the public realm. The curatorial approach for this project centered on selecting an artwork that not only honors the legacy of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, but also translates his values of generosity, stewardship, and unity into a contemporary visual language. By bringing together the vision of Emirati artist Maitha Demithan and the expertise of international artist Lonac, the mural stands as a powerful reminder that heritage, creativity, and collaboration can inspire future generations to carry this amanah forward.”
Maitha Demaithan, the artist behind the mural, said: “The mural “Al Amanah” tells the story of the farm of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in Al Khawaneej. At the center of the composition appears a key held between two open hands, surrounded by palm trees. The Al Khawaneej farm witnessed meetings in 1971 that helped pave the way for the establishment of the United Arab Emirates. Within the artistic composition, the key, inspired by the farm’s gate key, transforms into a palm tree, symbolizing life and generosity in Emirati culture. The hands in the mural also evoke a story of loyalty and dedication. Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan entrusted the late Matar bin Sultan Al Sairi Al Qamzi with overseeing the farm, and his family continued to carry this trust, preserving its legacy across generations.” Sheikh Zayed’s Farm in Al Khawaneej holds a treasured place in the UAE’s collective memory. More than a physical site, it stands as a living testament to Sheikh Zayed’s belief in faith, determination, unity, and generosity, principles that continue to guide the country’s journey and inspire all who come after.
