Coffee Bean Art Tribute Honouring UAE Leaders at Waterfront Market Dubai

Celebrating Eid Al Etihad Through Art, Culture, and Community

Waterfront Market, Dubai’s largest food market, marked the UAE’s 54th National Day (Eid Al Etihad) with a powerful art installation that brought together culture, heritage, and creativity. At the centre of the celebration stood a large-scale portrait honouring the UAE’s leaders — created entirely from coffee beans sourced from across the world.

Crafted using 60 kilograms of coffee beans from the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Colombia, and Sri Lanka, the artwork symbolised unity, diversity, and the shared journey that continues to shape the nation’s identity.

A Unique Coffee Bean Artwork by Catherine Nunez

The installation was created by Catherine Nunez, a UAE-based Filipina visual artist and one of only a few professional sand animation performers in the Middle East. Known for her expressive storytelling and use of unconventional materials, Nunez brought the portrait to life using more than 400,000 individually placed coffee beans.

Her work blends fine art with live performance sensibilities, turning everyday materials into meaningful narratives that resonate with both local and international audiences. This Eid Al Etihad tribute reflects her signature approach — art that celebrates heritage, storytelling, and shared values.

Eid Al Etihad Experience at Waterfront Market

The coffee bean artwork is displayed in Waterfront Market’s central atrium until 3 December, offering visitors an opportunity to experience the spirit of the UAE’s National Day in a reflective and immersive setting.

Alongside the installation, a traditional majlis welcomes guests with complimentary Arabic coffee and dates, creating a space that encourages visitors to pause, connect, and celebrate the occasion throughout National Day week.

Cultural Performances and Family Activities

From 29 November to 2 December, Waterfront Market hosts daily Ayala dance performances from 5 PM to 9 PM, showcasing Emirati tradition through music and movement.

Families visiting during the long weekend can also participate in the Little Foodie Explorers Passport activity — a child-friendly experience designed to educate and entertain. Children explore the Market, meet traders, discover new ingredients, and collect stamps, with completed passports exchanged for certificates and small surprises.

Waterfront Market: A Hub for Food, Culture, and Community

Home to more than 800 varieties of fresh produce, Waterfront Market brings together seafood, meats, fruits, vegetables, and spices from the UAE and around the world. It has become a trusted destination for families, chefs, and businesses, offering both retail and dining experiences in a vibrant waterfront setting.

Through initiatives like this Eid Al Etihad celebration, Waterfront Market continues to blend food, culture, and community, creating meaningful experiences beyond shopping.

Visit Waterfront Market Dubai

Waterfront Market is open daily. For opening hours, upcoming events, and cultural programming, visit the official website or follow @wfm.uae on Instagram and @waterfrontmarket on Facebook.

• Waterfront Market Dubai

• Eid Al Etihad 2025

• UAE National Day art

• Coffee bean artwork UAE

• Catherine Nunez artist

• UAE cultural events

• Public art installation Dubai

• Sand animation artist Middle East