The interactive, sustainable art installation celebrates the People of Determination community, advancing accessibility and inclusion in Dubai
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 8 November 2024: Dubai Holding Entertainment (DHE), is proud to introduce the one-of-a-kind Shelter of Inclusivity art installation at this year’s Dubai Design Week. This interactive art installation, created in strategic collaboration with Canadian University Dubai (CUD) and supported by ImInclusive, champions accessibility and celebrates the unique contributions of the People of Determination (PoD) community being the only installation focused on inclusion among all those present this year.
Running from 5th to 10th November at Dubai Design District (D3), the event welcomes thousands of visitors to engage with this transformative piece, spotlighting Dubai Holding Entertainment’s ongoing dedication to social responsibility across its attractions.
At the heart of Shelter of Inclusivity lies a powerful call to action – encouraging guests of all abilities to experience a space intentionally crafted to symbolise protection, acceptance and equality for all. Designed with intention, the piece is built with sustainable materials and incorporates colors and artwork that echo the strength and spirit of the PoD community.
The curved walls of the installation evoke the imagery of protective arms, and the use of purple tones pays homage to the disability community. Every element has been carefully designed to prioritise accessibility, embodying DHE’s mission to create inclusive experiences across all its destinations and echoing Dubai’s vision of becoming the world’s most accessible city.
In partnership with the School of Architecture and Interior at Canadian University of Dubai’s, the Shelter of Inclusivity was brought to life with a focus on accessibility, sustainability, and meaningful design. The social enterprise ImInclusive collaborated closely to connect with the PoD community, ensuring their involvement from concept to final execution. Dubai’s Department of Economy and Tourism further supports this initiative by engaging guests and promoting ongoing community involvement for a celebration of inclusion where the art installation will be transported to one of the DHE destinations.
Reflecting DHE’s leadership in creating accessible experiences, the Shelter of Inclusivity serves as a powerful call to action – inviting individuals, employers, and communities to recognise and create opportunities for People of Determination. With its purposeful design and universal accessibility features, the installation aims to challenge stereotypes, and spark conversations around disability inclusion.
“Dubai Holding Entertainment is committed to creating a more inclusive environment across our destinations and Shelter of Inclusivity is a symbol of that mission,” said Al Anood at Dubai Holding Entertainment. “We hope this installation inspires all who engage with it to embrace accessibility and create more opportunities for People of Determination, contributing to Dubai’s vision of becoming the most accessible city worldwide.”
“We are honoured to collaborate with Dubai Holding Entertainment on such a meaningful project”, shared Massimo at Canadian University Dubai. “Shelter of Inclusivity embodies our shared values of social responsibility and inclusivity, and we are excited to see it bring Dubai’s community together.”
Following its debut at Dubai Design Week, the installation will continue to champion accessibility and inspire inclusivity at various Dubai Holding Entertainment locations, with a year-end unveiling event reinforcing DHE’s long-term commitment to a future of barrier-free spaces.
About Dubai Holding Entertainment™:
Dubai Holding Entertainment is one the largest diversified entertainment groups in the region. It develops, operates and manages some of Dubai’s most iconic attractions and family destinations, creating exceptional experiences, attracting millions of visitors each year, making every visit a story worth sharing. The portfolio includes Global Village, the UAE and wider region’s leading multicultural family destination for culture, shopping, and entertainment; Dubai Parks™ and Resorts, the Middle East’s largest theme park, comprising of MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, the largest Hollywood-inspired theme park in the region, LEGOLAND® Dubai Theme Park, LEGOLAND® Water Park, and the region’s only LEGO® themed LEGOLAND® Hotel together with RIVERLAND™ Dubai, a themed food and dining hub that connects the entire destination and Real Madrid World theme park coming soon. Coca-Cola Arena, one of the region’s largest multipurpose indoor arenas; Wild Wadi Waterpark™, Dubai’s original family-friendly waterpark, with views of Dubai’s iconic landmark, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah; Roxy Cinemas, offering a premium cinema experience across six locations in Dubai including Roxy Xtreme, the largest screen in Middle East and North Africa; The Green Planet Dubai, the Middle East’s only indoor tropical rainforest with an outdoor Nature Park located in City Walk, Dubai;; Ain Dubai, the largest and tallest observation wheel in the world; Arabian Radio Network (ARN), the largest radio network in the region; MPN, a multimedia sales house operating premium out-of-home assets, video production, event sponsorship, and activations; among many others.
About Canadian University Dubai:
Established in 2006, the Canadian University Dubai (CUD) is a higher education institution located in City Walk, Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The university is the number 1 ranking University in Dubai according to the QS World University Rankings 2025.
CUD is a diverse and dynamic institution, with over 120 student nationalities. The university provides academic programs at both the undergraduate and graduate levels with a reputation for academic excellence. With 18 accredited degree programs and over 30 concentrations, CUD offers a diverse range of programs across four academic faculties, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience. The curriculum is Canadian-inspired and serves as a gateway for students to pursue higher education, research, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities in Canada.