In Perpetual Motion

Designed by multidisciplinary Emirati artist Latifa Saeed, this roundabout installation at NAS Sports Complex, Nad Al Sheba captures the essence of the city’s dynamism, strength and fluidity. Selected through an open call by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), ‘Alsarmadi’ is a visual symphony of energy and momentum. “‘Alsarmadi’ is the Arabic word for ‘perpetual’, which means ‘endless and uninterrupted’ and symbolises the multiple concepts represented and experienced in the artwork. This concept reflects the dynamic energy of Dubai and mirrors the continuous flow of viewers as they navigate the roundabout from their cars,” shares Saeed. 

At the heart of ‘Alsarmadi’ lies a striking representation of movement. The installation features a single horse, depicted in eight different cantering positions, forming a rhythmic sequence of motion. Crafted from linear steel rods, the piece evokes the strokes of a pencil sketching an object in motion, reinforcing the notion of speed and fluidity. The vortex at the centre of the roundabout symbolises the force generated by the horse in full stride, creating an immersive visual experience for passing drivers. “Movement is universal,” explains Saeed. “When I think of movement, I envision everything from the tiniest atoms to the vast expanse of galaxies.”

Located in a district synonymous with athleticism and endurance, ‘Alsarmadi’ is deeply intertwined with Dubai’s cultural landscape. “To me, sports embody momentum, movement, continuity, strength, resilience and consistency,” says Saeed. “A symbol from nature that represents speed and power to me is the horse – a creature that has long been associated with grace, speed and endurance. This to me represents Dubai’s identity.”

The journey from concept to completion was a meticulous one. The process began with a hand-drawn sketch, which evolved into digital renderings and 3D-printed models. A small-scale steel prototype was then developed, incorporating water and light simulations to enhance the final structure. Once refined, the full-scale installation was carefully constructed and adjusted on-site to optimise its interaction with the surrounding environment. ‘Alsarmadi’ plays with the perception of movement – when viewed while driving, the sculpture appears to shift and flow; when stationary, it stands in poised stillness. This duality reinforces the artwork’s central message: momentum is created through initiation. “As people drive around the roundabout, the artwork appears to be in motion, but when they stop, it becomes still, reinforcing the idea that movement brings energy and life,” says the artist.

For Saeed, having her work showcased in Dubai is a milestone that carries immense personal and cultural significance. “Having my work featured in Dubai is an incredible honour. Dubai is a city that embodies innovation, ambition and perpetual movement – values that deeply resonate with my artistic vision. Seeing my work become part of its dynamic landscape is both humbling and inspiring,” she reflects.