Creative Dubai Metro display pays homage to UAE’s founding fathers

Dubai: Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, has launched a striking visual tribute to the UAE’s Founding Fathers on the Dubai Metro Red Line. The installation features powerful images of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, paired with verses from the poem ‘The People and the Leader’ by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.

The display pays homage to the enduring vision and values that shaped the nation’s early journey.

A tribute spanning the Red Line

Created in collaboration with Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the initiative is part of Dubai’s ‘National Month’ celebrations and the wider #ZayedAndRashid campaign.

The artwork stretches from Centrepoint station to Expo 2020 station, making it visible to thousands of commuters and visitors every day. The visuals serve as a daily reminder of the founders’ leadership, unity and commitment to progress—values that continue to guide the country’s development.

Honouring an inspiring legacy

Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, said the installation forms part of the second edition of the #ZayedAndRashid campaign, held under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council.

“This initiative honours the Founding Fathers and highlights the values they championed — values that remain central to the UAE’s identity and continue to inspire generations,” she said.

Al Suwaidi added that the Dubai Metro, as one of the city’s most recognisable symbols of modernity and sustainability, provides a fitting platform for this tribute. “The Metro reflects Dubai’s spirit of progress. Showcasing the legacy of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid here connects the nation’s roots with its forward-looking vision.”

Strengthening national identity across the network

Fatma Al Khumiri, Director of Marketing and Corporate Communication at RTA, said the initiative supports RTA’s mission to reinforce national identity through public transport, which serves millions each year.

“The Metro has become more than a transport system. It is a shared space that brings communities together,” she said. “Decorating the trains with images of the Founding Fathers highlights the union of tradition and innovation that defines Dubai’s growth.”

Part of Dubai’s month-long celebrations

The installation is one of several major activities organised by Brand Dubai for ‘National Month’. Other highlights include the popular Flag Garden at Umm Suqeim Beach, a large-scale artwork on The Gate Building at Dubai International Financial Centre, and a variety of cultural and community events running across the city until 2 December.

Now in its second year, ‘National Month’ celebrates Dubai’s cultural diversity and gives residents and visitors a chance to engage with the UAE’s national story. Participants are encouraged to share their moments using #ZayedAndRashid.