Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has said that the UAE is committed to supporting innovation as it is the key to the future.

Innovation will enable the UAE not only to enhance its global profile but also contribute to furthering peace, harmony and understanding between peoples and nations, he said.

"The UAE opens its doors to innovators and seeks to equip them with everything they need to implement their creative ideas," he said while visiting the third edition of the Dubai Canvas 3D Art Festival 2017 being held in City Walk.

He added the UAE seeks to achieve this through various initiatives that serve as incubators for innovators in various sectors.

The 3D art event showcases the works of 25 international artists and four Emirati artists.

Director General of the Government of Dubai Media Office, GDMO, Mona Ghanem Al Marri welcomed Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and briefed him on the new additions to the third edition of event, which is organised by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of GDMO, in partnership with Meraas, one of the Dubai’s leading holding companies.

Sheikh Mohammed toured the Festival, and viewed the artworks of four local artists participating in the Festival. Artists participating in the event are also competing for the Dubai Canvas 3D Art Award, which features a prize money of AED2.3 million.

Sheikh Mohammed also praised the launch of the Award, the world’s first award that recognises excellence in 3D art, which reflects the UAE’s efforts to support innovation and creativity.

He also highlighted the importance of initiatives and projects that reflect the UAE’s modern outlook and help foster local talent, as well as raise the UAE’s profile as a cultural and knowledge hub. During his tour, Sheikh Mohammed posed for a photo with participants and members of the team organising the event.

Al Marri expressed her gratitude to Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid for his continuous support for innovators and artists, which she said "is the main factor behind the resounding success of the event."

She also said that Brand Dubai is committed to continuing enhancing the Festival to support Dubai’s journey of innovation and creativity.