Encircling Downtown Dubai, the 3.5km road was previously known as Emaar Boulevard based on the area's developer. In December 2012, Emaar renamed the boulevard to pay tribute to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The thoroughfare is famous for an impressive array of restaurants, cafes, and outdoor art exhibitions by Art Emaar, a cultural initiative of Emaar Properties.[14]