Judges for the National Day Calligraphy Competition, launched by Aldar Properties, Abu Dhabi’s leading listed property development, investment and management company, have short-listed 10 designs to proceed to the final stage of the contest.

The short-listed artists have been granted AED 10,000 each, and will be tasked with re-creating their designs live at Yas Mall from 3rd to 13th November, with the winners to be announced on 14th November

The competition aims to engage the community in promoting a classical form of art, while providing a platform to express national pride. The 10 finalists include:
· Deyaa Allam

· Mariam Albloushi

· Hana Alsuwaidi

· Hussam Ahmad Abdulwahab

· Jalal Almhareb

· Fathi Ahmed

· Fatima Alhammadi

· Asia Al Harmoudi

· Salinas Martinez

· Majed Alsudani

The contest was launched in celebration of the UAE’s 45th National Day, following the release of the poem “الدار عامرة بأھلها” (meaning, the beauty of our home comes from its people), produced by Aldar in collaboration with famed Emirati artists, poet Hassan Al Obaidly, composer Moussa Mohammed, and singer Aida Al Menhali.

The short-listed candidates were chosen from over 290 entries, which showcased a wide variety of styles and abilities. Submissions were received from all age groups – teenagers to retirees, indicating the role that calligraphy continues to play in the UAE’s artistic and cultural landscape.

The calligraphic art pieces will be judged based on artistic hand lettering, creative interpretation of the poem, and effective use of colour and design.