DUBAI: An international cultural initiative, WeBecomeOne, has been officially launched in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), bringing together Emirati artists and acclaimed Austrian contemporary artist Tom Lohner to promote unity, harmony and cultural connections through art.
Conceived by Zubin Karkaria, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of VFS Global, Mike Reiter, Founder of Brainsworld, and Tom Lohner, the initiative aims to encourage artistic collaboration, cultural dialogue and opportunities for emerging Emirati artists to engage with the international creative community.
The initiative marks the first phase of a global cultural movement intended to use art as a bridge between communities, governments and countries. Dubai was chosen as its launch destination because of its position as an international hub for diverse cultures, innovation and creative collaboration.
The launch ceremony was held at the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), with the support of Austrian Ambassador to the UAE Bernd Alexander Bayerl. The event brought together representatives from government, diplomacy, business and the creative industries.
The WeBecomeOne installation will remain on display at DIFC during the 22nd edition of DIFC Art Nights, scheduled to take place from November 12 to 15, 2026.
Austrian Ambassador Bernd Alexander Bayerl said Austria and the UAE enjoyed a strong and growing strategic partnership based on mutual respect, collaboration, investment and innovation. He said cultural exchange was an important dimension of bilateral relations and that WeBecomeOne would bring the artistic communities of both countries closer through collaboration and the exchange of ideas.
DIFC Investments Chief Real Estate Officer Saleh Al Akrabi said art and culture were integral to DIFC’s identity, connecting creative talent and audiences from around the world. He said the centre was pleased to support the initiative and provide a platform for Emirati and international artists to showcase their work and engage with wider audiences.
A key feature of the launch was the unveiling of “Hands of Becoming”, the inaugural artwork of WeBecomeOne. Designed by Tom Lohner in collaboration with Emirati artists, the installation features a natural wooden hand alongside a richly painted counterpart, symbolising individuality, collaboration and the creative potential of different cultures coming together.
Lohner said working with Emirati artists had provided an opportunity to explore diverse perspectives through a shared creative process. He said the artwork reflected how individual voices could combine to create something meaningful.
VFS Global Founder and CEO Zubin Karkaria said art had the power to bring people and cultures together and inspire peace, harmony and unity. He said the initiative aimed to provide young Emirati artists with opportunities to develop their skills, collaborate with internationally recognised artists and present their creativity to global audiences.
He added that the UAE launch was the beginning of a wider international journey, with the ambition of developing WeBecomeOne into a global movement celebrating humanity through art.
The initiative places particular emphasis on supporting emerging Emirati artists by providing international exposure, opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration and access to global artistic networks.
VFS Global has played a central role in bringing together artists, institutional partners, diplomatic stakeholders and cultural leaders for the project. The initiative also reflects the organisation’s broader commitment to connecting people and promoting meaningful engagement across borders through culture and creativity.
Organisers announced that “Hands of Becoming” would also be showcased at Expo 2027 Belgrade, marking another step in the initiative’s international expansion.
Further artistic exchanges, public installations and international partnerships are planned as WeBecomeOne seeks to establish a sustained global platform for cultural dialogue, emerging talent and collaboration across borders.
