Dubai is inviting artists and designers to help reshape parts of the city’s road network through a large-scale public art programme that will transform more than 40 tunnels across the emirate into creative cultural spaces.
The initiative, launched by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority in partnership with the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), is now open for submissions from Emirati and UAE-based artists, designers, and architects.
The aim is to turn everyday driving routes into visually engaging environments that reflect Dubai’s identity, cultural diversity, and evolving creative scenes.
Reimagining tunnels as cultural spaces
The Dubai tunnels initiative is part of a wider effort to integrate art into public infrastructure and support long-term urban development goals aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
Instead of being viewed only as transport corridors, tunnels will be redesigned as public art spaces that add character to daily commutes and contribute to a more visually dynamic city experience.
The project also supports Dubai’s broader vision of making art more accessible in public spaces, allowing residents and visitors to experience creativity beyond traditional galleries and cultural venues.
Open call for artists, designers and architects
UAE-based creatives are being encouraged to submit original concepts that reflect Dubai’s identity and highlight the city’s cultural diversity.
Applications are open from May 11 to June 15. All submissions will be reviewed based on creativity, innovation, relevance to Dubai’s cultural identity, and practical feasibility.
Expanding Dubai’s public art programme
This new phase builds on earlier work completed under the Dubai tunnels initiative, which has already introduced artistic installations in selected locations across the city.
The latest expansion significantly increases the scale of the project, extending it to more than 40 tunnels in future phases and strengthening Dubai’s focus on integrating culture into everyday urban infrastructure.
Supporting culture and creative industries in Dubai
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority said the initiative plays an important role in supporting the creative economy, encouraging local talent, and bringing art into daily public life.
The Roads and Transport Authority in Dubai highlighted that the collaboration helps transform tunnels from purely functional structures into artistic landmarks that reflect the spirit and diversity of the city.
Building a more creative urban experience
By integrating art into transport infrastructure, the Dubai tunnels initiative continues the city’s wider effort to position itself as a global centre for culture and creativity.
As the programme expands, it is expected to change how people experience everyday travel, turning routine tunnel commutes into moments of visual and cultural engagement.
