Abdul Qader Al Rais
Born in Dubai, 1951 and lives in Dubai
Abdul Qader Al Rais is one of the most-acclaimed artists from the United Arab Emirates.
Born in 1951, he left Dubai to study in Kuwait. Undoubtedly, Abdul Qader’s early experiences in Kuwait, including the teachings impacted his development both artistically and intellectually. He left grammar school and returned to Dubai in 1974 where he worked at the Ministry of Labour as a labour inspector. He pursued his education and earned a degree in Sharia Law at the United Arab Emirates University, Al Ain.
Al Rais paints landscape and architectural scenes inspired by traditional Emirati neighbourhoods, buildings and forts using a photorealistic style. The established artist also creates abstract paintings incorporating Arabic letters. The use of small floating squares is a signature style carrying through Al Rais’ works.
Recipient of the first Sheikh Khalifa Prize for Art & Literature, Dubai-born Al Rais developed his distinct style through years of experimentation.
Al-Raies has held exhibitions worldwide since 1965 and he has participated in numerous prestigious art events around the world, in Dubai, Beirut, Washington DC, Kuwait, Oman, Riyadh, among others.
Abdul Qader Al Rais is one of the artists representing the country at the UAE National Pavillion during the 56th Venice Biennale.