Dubai Culture Concludes “Al Marmoom: Wildlife” Exhibition and Launches Its Virtual Version

Art and Culture

Dubai Culture Concludes “Al Marmoom: Wildlife” Exhibition and Launches Its Virtual Version

The Dubai Culture and Arts Authority has successfully concluded the “Al Marmoom: Wildlife” exhibition, organized in collaboration with His Excellency Ali Khalifa bin Thalith, Secretary General of the Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award. The event celebrated the natural beauty and biodiversity of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, one of the UAE’s largest environmental projects dedicated to wildlife protection and sustainable tourism.

Building on its success, Dubai Culture announced the launch of a virtual version of the exhibition—accessible through the website—running until March 18, 2026. The digital experience allows users to explore a curated collection of photographs and interactive augmented reality (AR) experiences, underscoring the Authority’s mission to make art accessible to all while promoting sustainability and the preservation of cultural and natural heritage.

Over ten days, the exhibition attracted more than 10,000 visitors, offering a rich educational experience that showcased 24 striking photographs documenting the wildlife and landscapes of Al Marmoom. Visitors engaged with AR-enhanced installations developed by the Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi, which brought the reserve’s wildlife to life through immersive technology. Guests could scan QR codes linked to AI-generated interactive videos, further deepening their understanding of the reserve’s diverse species.

Celebrating Creativity and Community

As part of the event, Dubai Culture also announced the winners of the “Al Marmoom: Wildlife” Photography Competition, which encouraged community participation.

First Place: Hazel Arnold — received a GoPro camera and a signed copy of “Truly, Madly, Deeply” by photographer Ali bin Thalith.
Second Place: Naif Al Hosani — won an exclusive exploration tour of Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve with Ali bin Thalith and a signed copy of the book.
Third Place: Youssef Hussein — received a signed copy of the same publication.

Statements from Dubai Culture and Partners

Shaima Rashid Al Suwaidi, Executive Director of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, said the exhibition’s success highlights its cultural significance and environmental impact.

“This exhibition redefines the relationship between humanity and nature through a contemporary visual lens,” she said. “It combines art and environment, encouraging visitors to explore, reflect, and take responsibility for protecting ecosystems. It also demonstrates how photography supports sustainability and wildlife preservation by documenting the local environment through powerful visual storytelling.”

She added that Dubai Culture’s collaboration with Ali Khalifa bin Thalith reflects its commitment to empowering local talent, providing platforms for Emirati artists, and reinforcing Dubai’s global cultural presence.

Photographer Ali Khalifa bin Thalith described the exhibition as a “vibrant space that blends nature and knowledge,” showcasing Al Marmoom’s environmental richness and artistic appeal.

“The diversity of photographs offered a panoramic perspective on the reserve’s landscapes, solidifying its position as a premier eco-tourism destination,” he said, emphasizing that the works were selected for their artistic quality and ability to express the essence of the desert ecosystem.

An Innovative Exhibition Experience

The “Al Marmoom: Wildlife” exhibition stood out for its drive-through concept, allowing visitors to view artworks safely from their vehicles while preserving the reserve’s natural environment. The installation’s architectural design—crafted to harmonize with the desert’s character—was solar-powered and built to withstand harsh climatic conditions, demonstrating Dubai Culture’s sustainable exhibition model.