Under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and a member of the Dubai Council, Dubai Design Week returns to its home in Dubai Design District (d3) from November 7 to 12. This edition is anticipated to be larger than ever, featuring an array of events, exhibitions, new commissions, workshops, talks, and innovative design projects.
A highlight of this year’s program will be the focus on large-scale outdoor installations. These installations will explore the convergence of design, science, and technology, reimagining materials of the past and promoting sustainable practices. The immersive public interventions will utilise unconventional materials like palm leaves, loofah, sugar, and paper pulp, with 3-D printed architecture at the forefront.
Dubai Design Week hopes to attract over 150,000 visitors, including architects, designers, thought leaders, influencers, and the general public from the region and around the world. This event reaffirms Dubai’s position as the design and creative capital of the Middle East and underscores its UNESCO City of Design status.
Key highlights of the 2023 program include:
Downtown Design: Celebrating its tenth edition, Downtown Design is recognised as the Middle East’s premier fair for contemporary design, featuring the latest collections, innovative products, and design solutions in interior design, furniture, lighting, and home accessories.
Abwab: An annually reimagined feature offering a platform for regional design talent. Emirati architect Abdalla Almulla will create an architectural pavilion centred around sustainability and materiality.
Urban Commissions: A design competition inviting innovative outdoor furniture proposals adhering to responsible design principles. The winning design will be unveiled at the festival in d3.
Installations: Over 20 outdoor installations will emphasise the convergence of design, science, and technology in reimagining materials and promoting sustainability. Notable projects include a 3-D-printed architectural pavilion made from biodegradable sugar-based PLA and eco-cooling walls made from loofah and paper pulp.
Exhibitions & Pop-Ups: Several exhibitions will showcase the latest in design from the region and beyond. These exhibitions will highlight the work of emerging designers, present posters from the Arab world’s visual culture, explore sustainability and emerging technologies, and feature innovative student projects.
Talks, Workshops, and Masterclasses: The event will host a series of talks, workshops, and masterclasses for all ages, offering insights and hands-on experiences. Distinguished guests and speakers will contribute to the program, including Lidewijk Edelkoort, who will deliver the opening keynote.
Marketplace: A consciously curated outdoor shopping experience known as The Marketplace will allow visitors to discover and purchase unique goods, sustainably sourced products, and delectable food.
Dubai Design Week, which began in 2015, has developed into a prominent international design event known for its diverse programming, global impact, commitment to innovation, and support for local talent. It plays a vital role in shaping Dubai’s identity as a thriving centre for design and creativity in the Middle East. In recent years, it has gained global recognition, providing a platform for emerging and established designers to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals. Dubai Design District (d3) is part of TECOM Group’s business district portfolio, further reinforcing its commitment to innovation and the creative industry.
About Dubai Design District (d3)
Dubai Design District (d3), a part of TECOM Group PJSC, is a global creative hub focused on design, fashion, architecture, and art. Located strategically in Dubai, d3 challenges conventions and fosters creativity. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and a business-friendly environment, it provides creative talent with the tools for collaboration and growth. d3 features multi-brand boutiques, art galleries, and showrooms, and is home to leading professionals in various design fields. It hosts renowned events like Dubai Design Week, Arab Fashion Week, and Sole DXB, alongside educational programs. d3 houses in5, TECOM Group PJSC’s business incubator, and the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI), the region’s exclusive design and innovation university, developed in partnership with MIT and Parsons School of Design. The district also offers The Block, an open-air recreational area with sports facilities.
Location: Dubai Design DIstrict d3
Dates: November 7 to 12, 2023