culture
Abu Dhabi Artists Paint City's Values Across Striking Public Murals
Public murals across the capital showcase tolerance and community themes through works by local and international artists.
How we reported this
The largest public art mural in the region stands at Marsa Al Bateen, a 2,000 square metre, 14-metre-high piece titled 'Tolerance' by Brazilian artist Eduardo Kobra that depicts diverse ethnic faces.
Major Initiatives Supporting the Murals
The Abu Dhabi Canvas initiative, led by the Department of Municipalities and Transport, has transformed over 130 locations with more than 400 artworks by 100 or more Emirati and local artists covering nearly 7,800 square metres. The For Abu Dhabi initiative, part of the Ghadan 21 program, has commissioned international artists since 2017 to paint murals in downtown areas and along the Corniche, including works by Onur, Evoca1 and MadC.
Specific Locations and Recent Expansions
Current mural sites include the Rabdan area, where works now extend to walls, pedestrian crossings and utility boxes, and Reem Central Park, which features Kobe Bryant murals. Delivery rider hubs have also received student-selected artworks. From 2020 the Abu Dhabi Port Authority allowed local artists to paint along a 1.6 kilometre wall in the Port Mina area, forming one of the city's longest mural stretches.
These projects draw on Emirati and local talent alongside invited international creators to place images of tolerance and everyday life in public view. The Department of Municipalities and Transport coordinates many of the efforts, while the Port Authority's permission opened a long stretch for community contributions.
Residents and visitors can view the works by walking or cycling the Corniche, visiting Reem Central Park or exploring the Rabdan neighbourhood. The Abu Dhabi Canvas program continues to add pieces at additional sites, maintaining the focus on accessible public spaces.