Launching on February 13th, this year’s edition elevates the conversation around regional art and design, reaffirming the hotel’s position as a champion of contemporary culture.
To mark its return, ME by Meliá Dubai will unveil “What’s Brought to Life”, a groundbreaking exhibition by two visionary artists, Natalya Urmanova and Elvira Iurova. This bold and deeply introspective showcase explores the infinite depths of human identity, the raw power of creativity, and the transformative nature of self-expression. As the hotel transforms into a sanctuary for art enthusiasts, guests will be invited to embark on a journey that challenges perception, redefines personal narratives, and celebrates the fusion of portraiture and symbolic craftsmanship.
At the heart of this exhibition lies an extraordinary creative collaboration, one born from an unexpected friendship between two artists with distinct yet complementary visions. Natalya Urmanova, a portrait artist, captures the hidden dimensions of identity, offering her subjects a mirror into their own untapped potential. Meanwhile, Elvira Iurova, an award-winning jewelry designer, transforms personal stories into intricate pieces that symbolize strength, resilience, and transformation. Together, their work presents a powerful dialogue: the human soul as a blank canvas, continuously shaped by life’s experiences. Urmanova’s portraits go beyond traditional representation, serving as reflections of inner strength and self-discovery. Her creative process is not just about capturing an image, it’s about unveiling a deeper truth. Iurova El’eeté jewelry follows a similar philosophy; her designs transcend aesthetics, embodying empowerment through gemstones meticulously chosen for their meaning and energy.
Both artists bring a wealth of experience and expertise to this collaboration. Urmanova has spent over 15 years in the fashion industry, working with global luxury icons such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Saint Laurent. Her journey led her from high fashion to photography, where she found her true calling: capturing human emotion through a lens and translating it into timeless art. Iurova is an acclaimed jewelry designer, whose craftsmanship and artistic vision earned her the title of Best Exclusive Jewelry Designer at Milan Jewelry Week 2023. Her pieces are more than adornments; they are intimate reflections of identity, resilience, and personal growth.
More than just an exhibition, “What’s Brought to Life” is an invitation to explore the depths of identity, transformation, and the power of artistic expression. By hosting this collaboration, ME by Meliá Dubai reaffirms its dedication to fostering creativity, sparking meaningful dialogue, and providing a space where art becomes a catalyst for self-discovery. Guests and art enthusiasts alike are invited to step inside this immersive showcase and experience the profound intersection of portraiture and symbolic design, where every piece tells a story waiting to be unraveled.
About ME by Meliá Dubai
ME by Meliá Dubai is a 5-star hotel located in the Burj Khalifa district within the iconic Opus building, designed by the late Zaha Hadid. As the only hotel to be designed both externally and internally by Hadid, the property is a testament to her visionary approach to architecture. Known for her bold, futuristic designs, Hadid’s signature fluid curves and nature-inspired forms are integrated throughout the hotel, creating a seamless fusion of organic shapes and modern luxury. The result is an architectural masterpiece that reflects her pioneering spirit and continues to inspire all who visit.
The hotel offers 93 luxurious rooms and 13 residences and is recognised by Michelin Hotels. It also offers a diverse selection of world-class dining options. Central Restaurant, managed by the hotel, sits alongside renowned outsourced venues such as The Maine, ROKA, Sfumato, Soirée, Salmon Guru, and Le Relais de L’Entrecôte. In 2025, the culinary portfolio will expand further with the launch of Revolver and Maison Dali, bringing even more exceptional dining experiences to guests.
In addition to its exceptional dining, ME by Meliá Dubai features Maria German Flowers & Home an in-house flower and home decor shop and Memoir a salon, providing added convenience and luxury. Other amenities include an outdoor swimming pool, wellness centre and spa, a 7000 sq. ft. fitness centre, and a kids’ club. The hotel also emphasizes sustainability, striving to reduce its environmental impact while delivering personalized service in a creative, inspiring environment for guests.
Located in the heart of Dubai, ME by Meliá Dubai combines striking design, world-class service, and a vibrant atmosphere, making it a top destination for those seeking a unique and memorable experience.
About ME by Meliá
Located in global cultural epicenters, ME by Meliá is a collection of design hotels and is part of the larger lifestyle hotel group of Meliá Hotels International. Each of these properties aim to discover contemporary culture through the lens of their bold, charismatic personality. ME by Meliá brings destination, design and service together to deliver personal, enriching experiences for the stylish modern traveller. A stay at one of our hotels is more than just a vacation or a visit, it’s an immersion in architecture, design, gastronomy and art that few can match.
Contemporary culture is part of who we are. We express its creativity and energy in every aspect of our hotel experience. ME by Meliá hotels thrive on the sensorial connection to their settings – the visual stimuli, the taste of exquisite local food, the uplifting culture of its citizens and cultural leaders. Embedded within each hotel´s ecosystem is a community of artists, influencers, creatives and technologies that raise the hotel to a must-see, and must-stay, destination for those who yearn for inspiration and energy. There are currently eight hotels in the portfolio across Europe, Middle East, The Americas and Mexico, including ME Dubai, ME Milan Il Duca, ME London, ME Ibiza, ME Barcelona, ME Malta, ME Sitges and ME Cabo. Upcoming openings include ME Lisbon and ME Marbella, set to launch in the coming months.
Follow ME by Meliá on Instagram @me_by_melia and visit www.mebymelia.com.
