“Art is a form of meditation,” says eminent Emirati artist Abdul Qader Al Rais

Everyday scores of Dubai residents witness the brilliance of celebrated Emirati artist Abdul Qader Al Rais as they board the city’s metro carriages adorned by his intricate hand painted calligraphy designs. Tracing the word Dubai written in Thuluth calligraphy, the artworks depict the emirate in the 1960s through symbols such as palm trees and camel caravans, transitioning to present day landmarks — the Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and the Expo 2020 logo.  Al Rais, one of UAE’s most acclaimed and multi award-winning artist is notable for his abstract art that includes geometric motifs and Arabic words.

Born in 1951 in Dubai, Al Rais, considered one of the pioneers of contemporary art in the UAE was educated in Kuwait, where he began his art journey. Early on, he was inspired by Dutch masters and Impressionists, as he painted the region’s distinctive landscapes, natural habitats, local scenes and architecture. Even as his work gained widespread recognition, in 1974 he took a break from life in the arts for over 12 years, only to make a comeback with a new found passion for abstract art. Today he harmoniously blends a range of art forms that pay homage to his Emirati roots.

A recipient of several honours, he is a founding member of the Emirates Fine Arts Society. His art has been exhibited at the 2015 Venice Biennial, at the Museum of Contemporary Art in Shanghai, the British Museum and the National Gallery of Modern Art in New Delhi among several other venues.

In this special conversation with Middle East Masala, Al Rais shares insights into the evolution of his art, his personal milestones and reflects on the time he took a pause from his artistic career.

What facets of personal and daily life do you delve into while creating art?

‏My creative process begins with observation and reflection. I find inspiration in the smallest details of life—whether it’s the play of light and shadow on desert landscapes, the intricate patterns of Islamic architecture, or the memories of my childhood in the UAE. My daily life is deeply intertwined with my art; moments of stillness, prayer, or even walks in nature often translate into my work. For me, art is a form of meditation, where I blend personal emotions with cultural heritage to create pieces that evoke both familiarity and wonder.

How do you look back at your art journey? What have been those memorable milestones?

‏Looking back, my journey as an artist has been one of discovery and gratitude. Every phase has contributed to my growth, but certain milestones stand out. Winning my first national award in the UAE was a pivotal moment—it reassured me that my voice as an artist mattered. Exhibiting internationally and seeing how people from different cultures connect with my work has been deeply fulfilling. Recently, being awarded the UAE Medal of Arts by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is a moment I hold close to my heart. It’s a testament to the love and dedication I’ve poured into my art, and it motivates me to continue preserving and celebrating our culture through creativity.

How has your artistic style evolved over the years?

‏My artistic style has evolved significantly over the years. In the early stages, my work focused on realism, emphasizing detailed depictions of landscapes and traditional architecture. Over time, I began to explore abstraction, incorporating elements such as Arabic calligraphy and geometric patterns into my compositions. This shift allowed me to develop a unique style that bridges traditional Emirati aesthetics with modern artistic approaches. Today, my work represents a harmony between heritage and innovation, continuously evolving as I experiment with new techniques and ideas.

You took a pause from art for over 12 years and  moved from figurative to abstract art. What was that phase of your life like and what brought you back to art?

That phase of my life was filled with reflection and personal transformation. I stopped painting for 12 years, from 1974 to 1986, in what I later described as a period of artistic retreat. During that time, I was searching for balance and clarity within myself, while also focusing on building my personal life.

What brought me back to art was a simple yet profound moment. During a visit to the United States in 1986, I was inspired by the beauty of nature there, which reignited my passion for painting. I purchased art supplies and started anew, with a significant shift in my style. I transitioned from pure realism to a combination of impressionist and abstract techniques, focusing on watercolours. Eventually I returned to realism, aiming to express the richness of the Emirati environment and heritage.

All pics supplied by the artist.

Even when adopting abstraction, I never completely abandoned realism. To me, every painting carries a spirit drawn from reality and experience, regardless of the style used. I believe that art reflects the artist’s life, and this transformation was an expression of my personal and spiritual journey.

What are you currently creating?

I am currently preparing for my upcoming solo exhibition, which will take place at Opera Gallery in Dubai in 2025. Through this exhibition, I aim to showcase a new collection of artworks that reflect the evolution of my artistic journey, blending Emirati heritage with a contemporary vision.

You were inspired by Dutch Masters and Impressionists early on in your career, who among contemporary artists inspire and impress you?

‏When I returned to painting after a period of pause, I was deeply impressed by the works of American artists Andrew Wyeth, Norman Rockwell, and Richard Schmid. I admired Wyeth’s emotional realism, Rockwell’s narrative-driven compositions, and Schmid’s mastery of light and brushwork. Their styles remind me of the importance of blending technical excellence with a deep connection to the viewer.

How do you perceive the present art scenario in the UAE? Do you have a future vision for your own art?

‏The art scene in the UAE has grown immensely over the past few years. There is a thriving community of both established and emerging artists, and the government’s support for cultural initiatives, such as art fairs, galleries, and museums, has created a dynamic environment for creativity. The UAE is now recognized as a cultural hub, attracting global talent while nurturing local talent.

As for my future vision, I aim to continue blending my Emirati roots with contemporary techniques, exploring new forms of expression that resonate with both local and international audiences. I hope to inspire future generations of artists to explore their cultural identity through art, while also pushing the boundaries of creative expression.