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Gulf Today
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
‘Transience' by The Creative Cubes examines impermanence at DIAC
The Creative Cubes Gallery unveiled its latest group exhibition Transience: The Flow of Being, on June 14 at Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC). Curated by Dubai-based artist and curator Swapnil Jawale and to run till June 21, the multidisciplinary exhibition brings together 24 diverse contemporary artists who explore the theme of impermanence, through varied mediums and styles. The inaugural evening commenced with a welcome by Diyali Sen Bhalla, DIAC Chairperson, followed by the remarks of Swapnil, who introduced the exhibition's theme. 'This exhibition explores the fleeting, yet deeply beautiful nature of life – where every moment is both an ending and a beginning,' he said. 'Transience is a reminder that nothing in life is static — we grow, we evolve, we transform. Just like art, our identity flows in between form and formlessness. 'The show honours those invisible threads — of memory, culture, nature, and being — that root us in the present, while drawing from the past and dissolving into what's next.' The exhibition was officially inaugurated by Chief Guest Khurshid Vakil, Co-founder of Marina Home Interiors. Vakil's views resonated with the exhibit's theme, as he emphasised the emotional value of spaces, aesthetics, and the dynamic relationship between art and identity. Anita Sahai's artwork depicting freedom. The event also welcomed special guests including eminent Emirati artist Ahmad Al Awadhi Rukni, Art Senior Anjini Prakash Laitu, renowned water colourist Atul Panase, Dr. Supriya Kulkarni Sudhalker and Dr. Uday Sudhalker. Participating artists are Aakanksha Kshatriya, Anita Sahai, Asma Mehmood, Ayesha Yusuf Bhatti, Diyali Sen Bhalla, Gesere, Isabelle Alves, Kritika Iyer, Kiran Kumar, Marwa Elbadawi, Murugesh Thaigarajan, Nashwa Nagy, Pari Sagar, Ranjisha Raghavan, Ravindra Parkhi, Rooma Ejaaz, Saliha Hanif, Samishka Jawale, Sandeep Soni, Smithashree Balaji, Sonia Sahni, Srirupa Bose, Swaraj Jawale, Ulyana Okava and Vandana Arora. Marwa Elbadawi's work Alignment radiates quiet strength; it is joined to minimalism. Rooted in Islamic metaphysics and the wabi-sabi philosophy, the Japanese aesthetic philosophy that finds beauty in imperfection, impermanence, and incompleteness, her art weaves together silence, material, and memory, embodying a sacred yet grounded presence. Murugesh Thaigarajan is an accomplished artist and educator. His work addresses the loss of humanity in a mechanised world and uses vivid colours to explore identity and emotional connection to Nature. Swapnil Jawale, who is also an artist, showcases a piece from his ongoing series Shivakala: Timeless Creations. Marwa Elbadawi's artwork. The work seamlessly blends Indian traditions with contemporary symbolic forms. A dedicated advocate of contemporary and traditional art, Swapnil has curated the Indigenous Artistry section at international exhibitions for several years, and continues to mentor and uplift grassroots artists. His vision for Transience brings together global voices, and staying rooted in shared cultural traditions. Ravindra Parkhi's artwork Jubilant Moments stands out for its sophistication and mature technique. Parkhi is known for his international presence and active participation in residencies and biennales, and a deep understanding of visual storytelling. Kritika Iyer is a young, emerging talent. Her Malar series reimagines femininity through the metaphor of flowers. The work balances structure and softness, and is rooted in textile traditions and cultural symbolism. With an eye trained in architecture and a heart drawn to storytelling, she bridges structure and spirit, form and feeling. Sonia Sahni is trained in both science and art; her evocative canvases invite viewers into a layered experience of mystery, design, and vibrant expression — a reflection of her background in Ayurveda and space design. Kritika Iyer's serial work. Sandeep Soni is a petroleum engineer by profession and IIT graduate and a hobbyist artist who believes that art is the very essence of life. His surreal, story-driven artworks blend intellect, emotion, fantasy and philosophy. He also explores creative outlets such as music, graphic design and photography, embodying a holistic, artful existence. Isabelle Alves was born in Mauritius and is now based in Dubai. She is a mosaic artist whose pieces echo Nature's intricacies. Her work, marked by meticulous craftsmanship fusing glass, stone and other materials, presents a harmonious, organic aesthetic. Ulyana Okava's emotionally charged works aim to awaken inner consciousness. Drawn from personal growth and spiritual reflection, Ulyana's art touches on ecological awareness and carries a message of light and healing to the world. Samishka Jawale (left) and Swapnil Jawale. Srirupa Bose's conceptual installation Imprints explores the integration of experiences across a lifetime. Drawing on the metaphor of tree rings, the piece invites viewers to reflect on the cumulative nature of time, insight, and self-awareness. It encourages a deeper understanding of how individual experiences layer over time to create meaningful transformation. 'Transience: The Flow of Being,' said Diyali Sen Bhalla, 'is curated by the dynamic duo of The Creative Cubes, Swapnil and Samishka Jawale. The Creative Cubes is more than just an art space - it's a movement. They have consistently given a platform to artists in different and interesting exhibitions. This exhibition is a collection of high standard artworks from acclaimed and emerging artists and offers a compelling exploration of technique, emotion and brilliance.' Diyali is also a visual artist, illustrator and fashion designer, who celebrates life through abstracts. DIAC Chairperson Diyali Sen Bhalla. The Creative Cubes was founded by Samishka Jawale and is a UAE-based gallery that champions diverse artistic narratives, from indigenous art to experimental forms. With a strong presence at major events like World Art Dubai, the gallery is committed to creating cross-cultural platforms for artists worldwide. The Creative Cubes nurtures and showcases both established and emerging talent. Since 2025, it has also been expanding its digital footprint, offering global access to curated collections and artist collaborations through its online platform.
Hi Dubai
6 days ago
- Business
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Arbitration Centre Partners with Jus Mundi to Integrate AI and Boost Efficiency
The Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) has partnered with legal tech firm Jus Mundi in a strategic move to integrate artificial intelligence into its operations, marking a significant step forward in modernizing arbitration services in the region. Through this collaboration, DIAC's case management team will be trained on Jus AI , Jus Mundi's advanced AI-powered legal research and workflow platform. The initiative aims to enhance the speed, accuracy, and quality of arbitration processes while streamlining internal workflows. The partnership also reinforces DIAC's push for greater transparency. For the first time, DIAC will publish its decisions on challenges via Jus Mundi's global platform, providing open access to key legal materials for practitioners, researchers, and the wider arbitration community. In addition to operational enhancements, the agreement includes a series of joint thought leadership projects focused on innovation in dispute resolution. These will include legal education initiatives and opportunities for collaboration across the global arbitration landscape. A key highlight of the partnership is the upcoming launch of DIAC's Virtual Academy , scheduled for later this month. Jus Mundi will play a central role in shaping the academy's AI-driven curriculum, aimed at upskilling legal professionals in emerging arbitration technologies. Jehad Kazim, Executive Director of DIAC, emphasized the value of the partnership, stating it will empower legal practitioners and advance international arbitration standards. Jean-Rémi de Maistre, CEO of Jus Mundi, called the collaboration an opportunity to 'help shape the future of dispute resolution' through transformative AI tools. This alliance positions DIAC at the forefront of tech-driven arbitration, reinforcing Dubai's role as a global hub for legal innovation. News Source: Emirates News Agency
Zawya
6 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
AI – Innovation Partnership: Dubai International Arbitration Centre partners with Jus Mundi and Jus AI to accelerate AI innovation in arbitration
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The Dubai International Arbitration Centre (DIAC) and Jus Mundi are pleased to announce a groundbreaking AI and innovation partnership aimed at equipping DIAC with Jus AI cutting-edge artificial intelligence tools to streamline its operations and boost efficiency. Under this collaboration, DIAC's case management team will be equipped and trained on Jus AI, Jus Mundi's powerful AI-driven legal research and workflow solution. This initiative is designed to help DIAC optimize its case management processes, leveraging advanced AI capabilities to enhance speed, consistency, and quality across its arbitration services. Reinforcing DIAC's commitment to transparency and knowledge-sharing, DIAC's decisions on challenges will be made publicly accessible through Jus Mundi's platform under this partnership for the benefit of the global arbitration community. This partnership also launches a series of joint thought leadership initiatives between DIAC and Jus Mundi, aimed at promoting dialogue on innovation in dispute resolution, providing legal education, and creating new opportunities for arbitration professionals, academics, and practitioners in the UAE and worldwide. As a key milestone, Jus Mundi will support the launch of DIAC's Virtual Academy later this month, contributing its AI expertise to equip participants with hands-on knowledge of the technologies reshaping arbitration practice. 'With our combined expertise, we are confident that this partnership will bring significant value to the international arbitration community," said Jehad Kazim, Executive Director of Dubai International Arbitration Centre. 'By publishing key arbitration materials and leveraging Jus Mundi's cutting-edge technology, we aim to empower parties, legal practitioners, neutrals.' Jean-Rémi de Maistre, CEO of Jus Mundi, stated: 'We are honoured to collaborate with DIAC, the premier arbitration centre in the region, not only to make legal materials accessible to all but also to help advance DIAC's AI capacity. Together, we are empowering the arbitration community with transformative AI tools that will shape the future of dispute resolution.' About DIAC Established in 1994, Dubai International Arbitration Centre has over three decades of experience providing dispute resolution services to parties doing business in, or through, the MEASA region. The Centre is the region's largest arbitral institution, independent and impartial, committed to excellence, efficiency, and diversity. Dedicated to providing unmatched services, DIAC's newly reformed Arbitration Court, expanded Board of Directors, and new Arbitration and Mediation Rules solidify its position as a leading arbitral institution.
Arabian Post
09-06-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Dubai's Private Universities Attract Record Numbers
Dubai has recorded a robust 20 per cent increase in overall student enrolment at private higher education institutions during the 2024–25 academic year, pushing total numbers to an unprecedented 42,026 students across 41 KHDA‑licensed campuses. International student presence surged by 29 per cent, now constituting 35 per cent of the total enrolment, while Emirati participation surged by 22 per cent, signalling growing confidence among nationals in private university offerings. This expansion is firmly rooted in Dubai's Education 33 strategy, part of the wider Dubai Plan 33, which aims to transform the emirate into a global centre for learning and innovation by 2033. Under this roadmap, one of the most ambitious targets is to increase the proportion of international students to 50 per cent. Present figures show accelerated momentum toward that goal. Policy architects have championed a learner‑centric philosophy, geared toward broadening access, boosting research output, incubating start‑ups, and positioning Dubai among elite global academic destinations. Eight 'Game Changer' initiatives were launched in the 2024–25 academic year, designed to steer reform across early learning, vocational training and higher education. ADVERTISEMENT Four new international university campuses opened their doors this academic year, expanding Dubai's appeal among global institutions. The new entrants, hailing from China, India, Russia and Italy, join a landscape featuring 37 international branch campuses, emphasising both educational diversity and international integration. # Demand Patterns and Specialisation Trends University courses in business, engineering and information technology accounted for the lion's share of enrolment. Business programmes led with 44 per cent, followed by IT at 15 per cent and engineering at 13 per cent. Growth was particularly pronounced in IT, engineering and the health sciences—reflecting both employer demand and student aspirations. Emirati students appear drawn to similar disciplines within private institutions, doubling down on programmes aligning with Dubai's economic diversification strategy. The 22 per cent rise in Emirati enrolment to approximately 3,832 students underlines this shift. # Infrastructure, Regulation and Collaboration ADVERTISEMENT Dubai International Academic City, a key higher education cluster established in 2007, hosts 27 colleges and universities with nearly 27,500 students, offering over 500 academic programmes. DIAC continues to expand residential, research and incubation infrastructure to match surging demand. Among prominent branch campus providers, Heriot‑Watt University Dubai hosts around 5,000 students across its Knowledge Park site, while Birla Institute of Technology and Science, Pilani continues to serve about 1,400 students in Dubai International Academic City. This growing capacity is supported by KHDA's regulatory oversight, ensuring growth aligns with quality standards. Director‑General Aisha Miran described the expansion as evidence of institutional confidence in Dubai's educational landscape, affirming the alignment with future industry needs. # Investor Confidence and Economic Impact Consultancy reports from global advisors including L.E.K. Consulting attribute the surge to Dubai's openness to regulatory innovation, connectivity, investor safeguards and ease of doing business. Ashwin Assomull, head of global education at L.E.K., identified the amenable policy environment and student support systems as factors making Dubai competitive against traditional anglophone nations. This momentum has attracted investment into student housing, campus infrastructure, research centres and entrepreneurship incubators—generating ripple effects in construction, services, transport and living sectors. Dubai aims to achieve 10‑fold growth in education tourism by 2033 and produce 35,000 internationally co‑published research papers annually. # Challenges and Future Considerations While the numbers indicate strong growth, challenges remain. Rapid expansion requires commensurate investment in teaching quality, accreditation, faculty development, student services and graduate employability. Maintaining regulatory oversight poses additional coordination concerns, as outlined by KHDA officials. Another open question is the execution of E33 targets. While four new campuses have been established, reaching 50 per cent international enrolment and top‑100 QS rankings will require sustained effort from both public and private stakeholders. Critics also caution against an overconcentration in specific disciplines. Balanced offerings in arts, humanities, social sciences and emerging areas such as AI and green technology will be critical to holistic growth. # Outlook Dubai's higher education surge reflects a strategic shift toward building a knowledge‑based economy. With more than 700 programmes across KHDA‑licensed providers, the emirate now offers a comprehensive and competitive academic ecosystem. Embedded within urban and innovation infrastructure such as DIAC and Knowledge Park, it strengthens both regional and global competitiveness. The path ahead involves balancing expansion with quality, ensuring diversity of disciplines, strengthening industry‑academic linkages, and enhancing research capacity. As Dubai's universities grow in enrolment and reputation, they also face intensifying scrutiny from students, employers, accreditation bodies and global ranking agencies.
Gulf Today
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Traditional muse, millennial views: Old and new live in Jamila Patanwala's art
Jamila Patanwala is a contemporary Islamic artist, based in Dubai. 'My work is a reflection of my roots, and I strive to create pieces that invite the viewer to explore Islamic art in a contemporary manner,' she says. She primarily works in acrylics and mixed media, using bold colours 'to evoke the regality of Islamic patterns and calligraphy.' Her work is inspired by the richness of Islamic architecture, Quranic verses in Arabic calligraphy, and Nature. Some of her works were shown in an exhibition in Dubai International Art Centre (DIAC) recently. They were commented upon for their focus on the subject, the detailing of their meaning and the expertise of their execution. From her workspace comes Mishqaat-ul-Anwar, in acrylic on canvas, inspired by the Jamea Al Anwar mosque in Cairo, Egypt. Jamila's painting depicts a mishqaat or lamp or light from the mosque. Fruits of the Holy Quran, created in mixed media (it was shown at DIAC) is a sculptural and calligraphic art series that brings to life sacred fruits mentioned in the Quran, through the medium of clay. Rehnuma in acrylic and go leaf on canvas, is influenced by the opulent history and cultural significance of calligraphy. Work titled Fruits of the Holy Quran. Shuja'at (Courage) in acrylic on canvas depicts a lion, its mane forged with swords — a crown of steel shaped by bravery, sacrifice, and divinely bestowed strength, says Jamila. Noorun-Ala-Noor or Light upon Light in acrylic is a luminous tribute to divine beauty and spiritual profundity. 'I have tried to give a contemporary look to the exterior Medallion motif on Jamea Al Anwar,' Jamila says. 'I have recreated it on a square MDF plank, trying to mimic the original's placement on the exterior wall of the mosque.' Shubbak Al Anwar in acrylic on MDF refers to the discovery of a Fatemi shubbak - a stucco grille with floral patterns - during the restoration and revival of the Jamea Al Anwar mosque. 'The painting of this window or grille evokes a sense of tranquility and spiritual elevation, symbolising the divine connection between the sacred space inside and the world beyond,' says Jamila. The Golden Armour is an illustration which portrays a woman dressed in the Rida, the traditional attire of Dawoodi Bohra women. 'This piece symbolises the strength, dignity, and beauty I find in wearing the Rida — not as a restriction, but as a radiant shield of identity and faith,' says Jamila. 'Just as armour protects a warrior, the Rida envelops me in a sense of purpose, confidence, and pride. Through this artwork, I aim to challenge the often misunderstood narrative around the hijab and abaya. They are not symbols of oppression, but of autonomy, progress, and inner strength.' The golden hue of the artwork represents empowerment, resilience and spiritual richness. Jamila Patanwala speaks more on her work to Gulf Today Why did art interest you? My interest started in childhood, seeing my older brother's sketches. Watching his pencil bringing images to life made art feel natural and achievable; so I picked up a pencil too. That early habit, which started as a sibling inspiration, grew into my own creative voice and passion for Arabic calligraphy, motifs, and Nature‑inspired pieces. What do you mean by 'Contemporary', as in contemporary artist? 'Contemporary' means 'of our time'. A contemporary artist is someone engaging with the ideas, material, technologies and culture of the present moment. I try to weave my own spiritual experience into a work; so the art reflects how faith feels now, not as it was felt centuries ago. The reinterpretations of classical motifs through contemporary lens, connects tradition with present day aesthetics. Jamila Patanwala is based in Dubai. How can Islamic art be interpreted in a contemporary way? My work begins with the foundations of Islamic art — calligraphy, geometry, and arabesque motifs — but I weave in elements of Nature and present them through today's materials and formats. You'll see paintings brought up to mural size technologically and calligraphy being projected on digital screens. So, while the vocabulary is traditional, the presentation turns it into a contemporary conversation. How has India and UAE influenced you as an artist? The India-UAE axes gave me a unique blend of deep tradition and modern aesthetics. India inspires the craft, colour, memory and devotional content; the UAE sharpens aesthetics, scale and global visibility. The dialogue between the two is what gives my pieces a cutting edge. Why do you use bold colours? In Islamic calligraphy, hues like lapis blue or radiant gold, evoke divinity and awe more powerfully than muted tones. I use bold colours because I want the message in my work to come through loud and clear. How does architecture inspire you as an artist? I am drawn to painting architecture, because buildings hold so much meaning. Islamic architecture is not just about structures - they are symbols of faith and connection to the divine. Architectural geometry and patterns provide me a sense of order and harmony. What is the role of calligraphy in your art? Calligraphy is the heart of my work. I use sacred words because they instantly give meaning to the composition. It's worship in a visual form. Is Art a profession for you or is it only a hobby? Art isn't just a hobby for me — it's my profession, my practice, and my purpose. I see art as service. Whether through conversation, workshops, or simply sharing my work, my goal is to bring art into people's lives in a meaningful way.
