Post by : Badri Ariffin

Salik Company PJSC, the exclusive operator of Dubai's toll gates, has partnered with the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority to launch an exciting nationwide art contest aimed at reimagining Salik toll tags in creative and culturally rich ways. This competition, titled “Erth Dubai Through Your Eyes,” is an open invitation for artists, designers, students, and young creatives to submit original artwork that encapsulates their personal vision of Dubai. The initiative showcases the emirate’s vibrant cultural diversity and artistic traditions.

Participants will have the chance to influence a product used by millions of drivers across the city. Rather than perceiving Salik tags merely as toll collection devices, the organizers intend for them to become canvases depicting Dubai’s journey and imagination. The redesigned tags will reflect not only the city’s economic prowess but also its lively art and culture scene.

A Canvas for Creativity Across the UAE

Submissions are open until 19 January 2026, allowing ample time for interested individuals to craft and refine their concepts. All entries must be original, contemporary, and conform to local values while avoiding previously showcased works, ensuring a display of fresh creativity.

Winners will be announced at the 14th Sikka Art & Design Festival, taking place from 23 January to 1 February 2026 at the culturally rich Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood—a fitting backdrop that bridges history with modernity.

With a generous prize pool of AED 100,000 (USD 27,000), the first-place winner will earn USD 15,000, second place will net USD 7,000, while third place receives USD 5,000. This competition highlights Salik and Dubai Culture’s dedication to nurturing local and emerging talent.

Empowering the Creative Ecosystem

The main goal of this contest is to bolster Dubai’s creative scene. The initiative supports artistic growth by encouraging experimentation and inspiring young talents to push their boundaries. In addition, it aligns with Dubai’s ambition of establishing itself as a global cultural hub.

According to Mr. Ibrahim Al Haddad, CEO of Salik, the competition transcends aesthetics. He emphasized the significant role art plays in shaping the future of Dubai. By reimagining a tool integral to daily commutes, the contest links culture with urban mobility and integrates creativity into smart city initiatives.

This initiative aligns with H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s vision and builds upon the legacy of “Erth Dubai.” It creates opportunities for smart solutions while empowering young creatives to impact real-world products.

Cultural Identity Through Art

Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design, and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, pointed out that the competition fortifies Dubai’s cultural identity. Art is an expression of a city’s essence, and allowing artists to share interpretations of Dubai will widen the emirate’s creative influence. She believes this event will generate new cultural narratives and enhance appreciation for creativity among both residents and tourists.

Her vision is to foster young artistic voices and enrich cultural dialogue, ensuring art remains accessible to everyone. By encouraging a variety of contributors—from calligraphers to graffiti artists—the competition aspires to cultivate a rich diversity of modern themes, historical representations, and futuristic ideas in its design submissions.

Enhancing Public Interaction and Representation

The redesigned Salik tags will not only refresh the existing toll system but also enhance public interaction with a ubiquitous product. Transforming these tags into miniature artworks will boost public engagement and infuse personality and storytelling into the everyday lives of drivers.

Salik plans to expand its design offerings for customers, possibly exploring seasonal editions or festival-themed designs in the future, fostering a deeper connection to the brand.

A Platform for Aspiring Creatives

This competition eagerly welcomes professional artists, university students, self-taught designers, and grassroots creators. Its goal is to provide budding talents the recognition they need to propel their careers.

The significant cash reward serves as motivation, but the opportunity to display their designs across Dubai could prove even more fulfilling for many participants.

Art as a Pillar of Dubai’s Future

Dubai’s leadership reiterates innovation as central to the nation’s strategy, and this contest embodies that ethos. Integrating art into public infrastructure illustrates that creativity is essential for smart mobility and urban development.

The “Erth Dubai Through Your Eyes” contest invites artists to express their visions freely, inspired by Dubai’s architectural marvels, multicultural landscape, desert roots, or modern accomplishments.

This initiative transcends a mere contest; it’s a call to the creative community to enrich visual identity, deepen cultural appreciation, and turn everyday objects into symbols filled with meaning. By connecting art with mobility, the project furthers the alignment of Dubai’s contemporary urban space with its artistic heritage.

Aspiring participants are encouraged to begin preparing their designs early, considering themes that reflect Dubai’s evolution, heritage, and aspirations.

As Dubai continues to evolve, the “Erth Dubai Through Your Eyes” contest stands as an open opportunity for creatives to imprint their artistry on the city’s cultural landscape—one toll tag at a time.

#Global News #Dubai