If we were to poll the modern-day city of lights, Dubai would unquestionably shine as the winner. Not only is our concrete jungle home to gleaming streets and glossy skyscrapers, but its magnificent display of lights has also shattered world records. Just recently, Dubai lit up its skies with breathtaking New Year’s firework displays and a cutting-edge drone light show. Now, it is the streets of Dubai that are illuminated with unique light art installations thanks to a special project for Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF).
As part of DSF, Al Hai, together with The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has adorned the buzzing Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard with a series of innovative and sustainable art installations. Al Hai, one of DSF’s Lighting Districts, invites guests on an enthralling journey of light and imagination as they stroll down the bustling downtown street.
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Four months into the making, the six light structures were brought to life by seven UAE-based creatives specializing in photography, architecture, and product design. Conceptualized and designed by Rowdah Alsayegh, Yara Manla, Raghad Al Ali, Fatima Alawadhi, Eman Al Rahma, Ahmed Geaissa, and Abdullah Khouri, the remarkable project was inaugurated by H.E. Helal Al Marri, Director General Dubai Tourism and Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment and H.E. Hala Badri, Director General Dubai Culture on Thursday.
The project holds the rich heritage, traditions, culture, and history of Emirati homes at its core. Sustainability and recycling are also at the heart of the innovative project. In fact, the art installations are made using recycled and repurposed lights from previous DSFs.
With the Burj Khalifa sparkling as the backdrop, Al Hai embodies the essence of Dubai – a city, which is the epitome of modernity and yet so deeply rooted in its heritage. Surrounded by the downtown Dubai skyline, the light installations allow visitors to travel to a traditional Emirati town. The six light installations are designed to represent the six elements of a traditional Emirati neighborhood – a Sikka (alleyway), a Majlis, a Masjid, a Hewee (or courtyard), a Baqala (local store), and a Saha (playground game).
Witness the magic of Al Hai come alive Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard every day at sunset until January 30.
