The project, aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, reimagines city infrastructure as a large-scale public art canvas across Dubai.
Dubai is set to become significantly more vibrant underground as part of a major public art initiative.
Dubai Culture & Arts Authority and Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) have launched an open call inviting Emirati and UAE-based artists, designers, and architects to transform more than 40 road tunnels across the city into permanent public art spaces.
The initiative, part of the broader Dubai Tunnels Initiative, builds on two earlier phases and reflects the city’s growing focus on integrating culture into everyday infrastructure.
Rooted in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the project aims to reimagine public infrastructure as a cultural experience, turning tunnel spaces that were once purely functional into creative installations that enhance daily commutes for residents and visitors.
The initiative builds on earlier phases one and two, which received strong public appreciation and attracted international attention for transforming public infrastructure into art-driven destinations.
The open call is aimed at Emirati and UAE-based artists, designers, and architects, with a focus on homegrown and resident talent to ensure the artworks reflect Dubai’s identity and cultural fabric.
Applicants are expected to submit original, never-before-exhibited works that bring fresh perspectives to public spaces while capturing Dubai’s heritage, diversity, and forward-looking vision. Designs should be simple and bold, suited for tunnel environments where viewers are in motion, with thoughtful use of colour and no text or visual clutter.
Proposals must also use durable materials capable of withstanding Dubai’s climate, with a strong preference for ceramic tile systems due to their longevity and colour retention.
Submissions should include a concept statement outlining the artistic vision, presentation boards showing the design and colour palette, and an implementation plan covering safety and artwork protection during and after installation.
The open call begins on 11 May 2026.
The submission deadline for the open call is 15 June 2026 at 23:59 (UAE time). The deadline is firm and applies to all applicants.
Interested participants can register and access the full submission guidelines through the official website of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority.
The Dubai Tunnels Initiative goes beyond a standard art programme, positioning itself as a broader statement on the city’s identity—one where culture is embedded into everyday urban life rather than limited to galleries or cultural districts. The initiative aims to integrate public art into daily experiences such as commuting, school travel, and routine city movement.
For UAE-based artists, designers, and architects, the project offers a rare large-scale, permanent public platform backed by the government and reaching a wide audience across the city. With the application window open until mid-June, creatives have a limited period to submit proposals that could become part of Dubai’s long-term urban landscape.
