TLDR:
• Flag Garden honours UAE’s Founding Fathers
• Thousands of flags create unique portraits
• Open for visitors until early January
DUBAI (The Thursday Times) — At Jumeirah Beach in Dubai, the annual Flag Garden has unveiled a stunning tribute to the UAE’s Founding Fathers. Organised by Brand Dubai, the creative division of the Government of Dubai Media Office, this year’s display marks the 11th edition of the Flag Garden, celebrating the legacy of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. The vivid portrayal using thousands of UAE flags commemorates the occasion of Flag Day, drawing residents and tourists alike to admire this creative homage.
The Flag Garden stretches across a vast area, meticulously arranged to form the iconic images of the UAE’s revered leaders. With dimensions spanning 75 metres in length and 104 metres in height, the artistic installation exemplifies a spirit of national pride and unity. The garden, which will remain open until January 10, 2025, serves as a canvas for Emiratis and visitors to reflect on the vision and achievements of the founding figures who laid the foundations for the nation’s success.
Legacy and national pride
Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, emphasised that the symbolic representation of Sheikh Zayed and Sheikh Rashid highlights the UAE’s collective sense of belonging and loyalty. Al Suwaidi described how the unique design mirrors the Emirati people’s pride in their leaders, who have steered the country towards becoming a global powerhouse. The Flag Garden’s design is an emblem of unity, resonating strongly during key national celebrations and reinforcing the narrative of a country propelled forward by a shared vision.
This year’s edition stands out not just for its artistic execution but also for the historical significance it carries. The Zayed and Rashid campaign aligns with a series of festivities across Dubai, extending beyond Flag Day to the 53rd National Day celebrations on December 2. The tribute reflects a strategic initiative to engrain the UAE’s cultural identity while embracing innovation and creativity in public art displays. As residents and tourists stroll through the gardens, they experience a vibrant testament to the UAE’s enduring values and accomplishments.
A tradition of celebration
Brand Dubai’s initiative is more than a visual spectacle; it is a cultural statement, illustrating the government’s dedication to fostering a sense of community through engaging public events. Last year’s Flag Garden honoured Dubai’s contemporary leadership, featuring portraits of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and his successors. Each year, the installation evolves, adapting its theme to reflect the dynamic journey of the UAE and the pivotal figures shaping its path. The emphasis on visually captivating displays that narrate the UAE’s story is a hallmark of Dubai’s commitment to honouring the past while looking forward.
A gathering place for all
The Flag Garden at Jumeirah Beach continues to be a focal point for national pride, drawing families, friends, and visitors into a shared experience of celebration. As the UAE advances into a new era of growth and innovation, spaces like the Flag Garden serve as enduring reminders of the foundational leaders who envisioned a united and prosperous nation. The ongoing festivities, orchestrated by Brand Dubai, not only pay tribute to these icons but also create a platform for cultural exchange and reflection.
