Majid Al Futtaim Development, a leading developer in the UAE, has joined forces with Zayed University (ZU) to embark on an exciting and creative journey. This collaboration saw students from ZU participating in a unique challenge tasked with transforming the façade of the Imagine Hub building at Tilal Al Ghaf, a flagship community developed by Majid Al Futtaim. In this article, we will delve into the details of this inspiring project and the remarkable talents that emerged through it.
A Creative Challenge: Transforming the Façade
Innovation was the central theme of this collaborative project, and students from Zayed University were presented with a captivating challenge – designing a mural to adorn the exterior of the Imagine Hub building. This building, situated opposite the Elan Townhouses, is a vital element of the Tilal Al Ghaf master plan, having opened its doors in early 2023. The mural’s purpose is to serve as a focal point, inspiring and enchanting the residents and visitors of this community.
The Competition Unveiled
The competition unfolded during ZU’s fall semester and included a virtual workshop that aimed to guide and support students through the design-thinking phase of the project. The most promising ideas and proposals emerged, leading to the selection of the top five finalists. These finalists were given the opportunity to present their concepts at the prestigious awards ceremony held on 30th November, hosted at the Imagine Hub within Tilal Al Ghaf.
Celebrating the Winners
At the heart of this competition lay the celebration of talent and innovation. Aisha Dahham emerged as the first-place winner, her creative brilliance earning her the chance to collaborate with a specialized team for the implementation of her design on the building’s façade. Hiba Alhashmi and Reem Khaled claimed second and third place, demonstrating exceptional creative talent and ambition.
Rewards and Opportunities
The accolades for the winning students did not stop at recognition alone. They were awarded gift cards, redeemable across Majid Al Futtaim’s exclusive selection of malls. Additionally, these talented individuals were allowed to actively participate in bringing their winning mural concept to life. This underscores Majid Al Futtaim’s commitment to nurturing the careers of future generations and involving the local community in its groundbreaking projects.
Hawazen Esber’s Perspective
Hawazen Esber, CEO of Majid Al Futtaim Development, shared his thoughts on this remarkable collaboration, emphasizing the company’s dedication to fostering creativity and local talent, particularly among the youth. He stated, “Through our partnership with Zayed University, students were given a unique opportunity to showcase their skills and make a tangible impact on one of Dubai’s most exclusive residential developments, and we’re delighted to reward their efforts.”
Empowering Future Talent
Esber continued, “As technologies advance and the market evolves, it is more important than ever for companies to support the education and empowerment of future talent – and it is our mission to involve students in creating and elevating iconic destinations throughout the city.”
Prof. Michael Allen’s Insights
The collaboration also garnered appreciation from Prof. Michael Allen, acting Vice-President of Zayed University. He remarked, “The College of Arts and Creative Enterprises is an incubator of some of the UAE’s most exciting young artists and creatives, and I am so impressed by the diversity of submitted proposals.”
A Unique Partnership
Prof. Michael Allen commended the partnership with Majid Al Futtaim as a model example of how universities and the private sector can collaboratively inspire and encourage the next generation of young talent. He expressed his anticipation for seeing the creativity of ZU’s students on display at Tilal Al Ghaf and the immense community value it brings.
Tilal Al Ghaf: A Sustainable Oasis
Tilal Al Ghaf has established itself as one of Dubai’s most coveted residential areas, designed in alignment with Majid Al Futtaim Developments’ commitment to sustainable design and living. This community’s heart lies Lagoon Al Ghaf, an astonishing 110,000-square-meter recreational lagoon. This lagoon is surrounded by walkable neighbourhoods interconnected by pathways, cycling tracks, and jogging trails, all nestled amidst open spaces, lush greenery, and carefully designed landscapes.
A Community of Excellence
Spanning over three million square meters, Tilal Al Ghaf is not just a residential area; it’s a community that integrates signature Majid Al Futtaim retail experiences and hosts a world-renowned international school.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How were the students from Zayed University involved in this project?
A: Students from Zayed University were tasked with designing a mural for the Imagine Hub building at Tilal Al Ghaf.
Q: What was the theme of the project?
A: The theme of the project was ‘Innovation.’
Q: Who were the winners of the competition?
A: Aisha Dahham secured the first-place position, followed by Hiba Alhashmi and Reem Khaled in second and third, respectively.
Q: What rewards did the winning students receive?
A: The winning students received gift cards for Majid Al Futtaim’s malls and the opportunity to collaborate on bringing their mural concept to life.
Q: How does Tilal Al Ghaf align with sustainable living?
A: Tilal Al Ghaf is designed with a strong commitment to sustainable design and living, featuring a recreational lagoon, green spaces, and more.
Q: What is the significance of this collaboration between Zayed University and Majid Al Futtaim?
A: This collaboration showcases how universities and the private sector can inspire and empower young talent, creating real community value.
Conclusion
The collaboration between Majid Al Futtaim Development and Zayed University has transformed not only the Imagine Hub façade but also Still; it has also provided a platform for nurturing young talent and promoting creativity. The winning students and their innovative mural will continue to inspire and enrich the community at Tilal Al Ghaf, a shining example of sustainable living in Dubai’s ever-evolving landscape. This project serves as a testament to the importance of partnerships between educational institutions and industry leaders in shaping the future of our cities.
