Held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and member of the Dubai Council, in strategic partnership with Dubai Design District (d3), a member of TECOM Group PJSC, and supported by Dubai Culture, Dubai Design Week has announced its full programme taking place in d3 between 7-12 November. Dubai Design Week fosters Dubai’s role as the Middle East’s epicentre for design and culture, and a nurturing hub for creative talents from around the world.
The event will bring to the design community and general public an immersive experience featuring exhibitions, pop-ups, panel discussions, hands-on workshops and large-scale outdoor installations. Downtown Design, Dubai Design Week’s anchor event and the leading fair for contemporary and high-quality design, will mark its 10th edition.
Each year, Dubai Design Week provides a unique opportunity for designers from across the region to showcase their work to an international audience and is a platform for critical discourse, promoting responsible and impactful design and encouraging designers to consider the broader implications of their work; from traditional practices and emerging technologies to environmental sustainability and design-led social impact solutions.
This year in response to the devasting events occurring in Gaza, Downtown Design will be raising funds for humanitarian aid to support the many innocent civilians who are affected by the ongoing tragedy. Visitors to the fair will be asked to pay an entrance fee of AED 25 at the door of which the full amount will be donated to Emirates Red Crescent for Gaza relief efforts. The Art Dubai Group, who owns and manages Downtown Design, will match the total funds raised.
2023 DUBAI DESIGN WEEK PROGRAMME
Downtown Design
Marking a decade of contemporary design, Downtown Design will showcase more than 300 international and regional brands and designers from over 40 countries, reflecting Dubai’s influence on the regions burgeoning design industry. In its 10th edition this year, the fair will welcome some of the most sought-after brands globally, presenting their latest collections and innovative products, such as Cassina, showcasing its stand-out, inimitable Italian designs, Cosentino, unveiling a Roman bath concept in collaboration with Kristina Zanic Consultants; Dedar featuring a creative collaboration titled ‘Reverie’ in collaboration with Popus Eduitions and 1.6.0 Editions; Flexform, presented by Obegi Home, making their debut with a large outdoor showcase at the heart of the fair; world-renowned industry design brand Kartell, returning to Downtown Design after 10 years; and Poltrona Frau, a leader in ‘made-in-Italy’ design which fosters an exquisite blend of tradition and innovation.
In the fair’s section dedicated to limited-edition design and bespoke design, Downtown Editions, visitors can explore works by independent designers, studios and galleries from all corners of the world, with a spotlight on the region. Highlights include Dubai-based Fadi Saridienne Studio launch his new pieces; Apparatus presented by Dubai-based Collectional Gallery; Arkivio from South Africa alongside coveted new brand Don Tanani from Egypt and the unveiling of four projects by the designer cohort of the annual Tanween programme by Tashkeel.
ABWAB: Of Palm by Abdalla Almulla
The 2023 Abwab headline commission has been awarded to Emirati architect Abdalla Almulla for his project Of Palm”. The indigenous palm tree is the source of his inspiration with the entire pavilion – its structure, the interiors and design objects – being derived from the palm tree and brought to life with talks and workshops inspired by this organic material.
Urban Commissions: Designest by Ahmad Alkattan
Urban Commissions, Dubai Design Week’s annual design competition, that invites designers and architects to propose innovative outdoor furniture in the public domain, returns this year under a jury panel consisting of experts in the design field: Ahmad Bukhash, Robert Shakespeare and Cyril Zammit.
The year’s winner is Syrian concept designer and architect Ahmad Alkattan with his project Designest, a work inspired by the cultural significance of pigeon towers in the Arabian Peninsula, conceived as a series of intimate bio-inclusive spaces.
Installations
Established and up-and-coming designers, architects and collectives representing the region and beyond will present the potential of design, creativity through large-scale installations. Over 25 large-scale installations will be staged throughout d3, demonstrating how design, science and technology can converge to reclaim materials of our past, including:
– Architects Wael Al Awar and Kazuma Yamao of the Dubai- and Tokyo-based studio waiwaipresent ‘Urban Hadeera’, one of the most recognisable structures from UAE vernacular architecture, formed using sustainable, salt-based materials as a cement alternative.
– Palestinian textile designer Areen Hassan’s expands her practice through ‘Flowing Threads’, drawing on the unravelled threads to symbolize the interconnectedness of humanity, the layers of one’s own identity and the significance of transparency and adaptability.
– ‘Naseej’ by Emirati architect AlZaina Lootah & Indian architect Sahil Rattha Singh , and supported by Dubai Culture, is a wooden pavilion designed specifically as a contemplation space. Crafted to provide a sanctuary for introspection and peace, this unique structure draws inspiration from Emirati traditional weaving patterns and the elegant geometry of palm tree leaves.
– Made in Earth Collective’s ‘The Future Will Be Sown’ is an immersive sensorial landscape made entirely from loofah—a seemingly ordinary agricultural by-product from Southern India.
– ‘Peaceful Perspectives’ by Lebanese-Palestinian interior architect Aya Charife invites audiences to peer through tunnelled focal points, made from biodegradable soundproof material to create a visual moment of pause.
– Dubai-based architecture and interior design atelier TEE VEE EFF repurposes discarded cardboard and paper waste from the UAE to form ‘Pulp Fractions’ a modular installation using paper pulp as a primary material.
– After showcasing at this year’s Venice Architectural Biennale, Tokyo-based Mitsubishi Jisho Design will present ‘Arabi-An’, the UAE iteration of their sustainable tea house made from food-waste-based materials, including tea grains and grapes, and construed using the Miura method of Origami.
– Bahraini designer Sara Al Rayyes harnesses the innate beauty and strength of mother of pearl oysters, a typically discarded material in the pearling industry in her installation ‘Blessings of Iridescence’.
– ‘Altostrata – Therme Pavilion’ is a large-scale architectural pavilion designed by Award-winning French architect Arthur Mamou Mani and crafted entirely from fermented sugar using cutting-edge technology by Fab.Pub.
– Saudi architects Meaad Hanafi and Rahaf Al-Muzaini of Sibyl Design Studio invite audiences to build an evolving visual dialogue through their interactive installation ‘CYCLE’, a spinning sandboard inspired by Saudi Arabia’s transformative journey in recent years.
– In a world increasingly entangled with virtual realms, Indian artist Kapil Bhimekar, encourages audiences to experience the joy of human connection with ‘Reality Check’, a large-scale inflatable installation made from Recycled PVC.
– Iris Ceramica’s ‘THE BIG CHALLENGE’ is a deliberately oversized table tennis installation that allows multiple players to engage simultaneously in a game. Made from porcelain stoneware manufactured by Iris Ceramica, the installation features architect Niko Kapa’s geometric designs utilizing Design Your Slabs (DYS) technology.
– UAE-based Edge Architects offer an immersive spatial experience with ‘EDGE MORPH’; made from Desert Board, an engineered board crafted from upcycled palm fronds, audiences will navigate a world of organic curves and contours.
– Eco-Sustainable Voronoi Wall by students from the University of Sharjah is crafted from PLA (Polylactic acid), slashing waste and minimizing the carbon footprint linked to conventional construction.
– ‘The Sustainability Dome’ by 3Distica is built from repurposed HDPE materials and 3d printed biodegradable components, held together with recycled fabric ropes, demonstrating a blend of environmental consciousness and engineering innovation.
– Moey Studio will present ‘Circles of Trust’ where discarded tires are infused with renewed purpose and significance.
– Vertical Design will present ‘Prismatic Dreamscape’, an installation that invites audiences into a mesmerising world of duality and harmony utilizing neon lights and sustainable concrete tiles.
– nngg Studio will present ‘Shaking Sanctuary Urban Shade’, an immersive experience realised with flexible rods and canopies that create a responsive environment reminiscent of a forest.
– House of Piranesi, represented by VHC, will present ‘Floating Teka’ which introduces modular, reconfigurable seating made from terrazzo consisting of salvaged construction waste.
– ‘Lurking Questions’ by Incubis Consultants & Team Nori is a physical representation of the climate crisis composed of interlocked packaging waste.
– Shabir Mir’s ‘Ring of Life’ is a sculptural installation constructed from waste gargoor, traditional fishing nets resembling the movement of water that breathes life into space, casting captivating interplays of light and shadow.
Exhibitions
Over the course of the week, Dubai Design Week will host a number of curated exhibitions, including:
– UAE Designer Exhibition is an annual platform for the local creative community, showcasing emerging talents and young practitioners. Hosted at Downtown Design, this year’s exhibition is curated by Fatma Al Mahmoud under the theme ‘For Future Living Spaces’, with a focus on designers committed to crafting living spaces that embrace social impact and eco-consciousness. Featured designers and studios include Alya Alghfeli, Munira Almulla, Majid Al Bastaki, Areen Hassan, Ammar Kalo, Alia Mazrooei, Nuhayr Zein and Dachah Studio.
– Colab, Dubai’s first purpose-built material library will present ‘RETHINK’, showcasing ground-breaking materials that inspire new ways of thinking about sustainability, design and production processes. Housed in a modular, zero-waste exhibit, ‘RETHINK’ will feature UAE-made materials alongside a host of other innovative materials from around the world.
– Royal College of Art, one of the world’s leading universities of art in design based in London, will showcase over 20 projects which explore sustainability, design and emerging technologies, such as AI, linked to various themes, including fashion and textiles, healthcare, cities and infrastructure as well as environmental rehabilitation.
– ‘Round 4: 100/100 Best Hundred Arabic Posters’, supported by 421, is a visual account of the region’s under-documented discourse around contemporary design aesthetics. Presenting 100 design-focused posters, the exhibition celebrates diverse cultural aesthetics and the rich creative landscape of the region and acts as a critical archive of Arab-born design and type.
– Titled ‘Sustainability – Past, Present and Future’, the d3 Architecture Exhibition; organized by Dubai design district in partnership with RIBA Gulf Chapter on the sidelines of Dubai Design Week activities, will present a compelling narrative through time and the ever-evolving ethos of sustainable architecture in the Gulf region, whilst underscoring the critical role of architects in this journey. The exhibition will feature works by students and emerging architects alongside leading architectural firms including Foster + Partners, Zaha Hadid Architects and UN Studio. A series of talks and workshops will run as part of the exhibition.
– Design platform Isola will present their travelling curatorial exhibition ‘Nothing Happens if Nothing Happens’, featuring circular design pieces that highlight the principles of craftsmanship and regenerative design; with the set up of the space made entirely made from recycled plastic.
Activations & Pop-Ups
Dubai Design Week will also welcome a series of initiatives realized in collaboration with the festival’s partners.
– BMW & Nathalie Harb – Urban Hives: Urban Hives by Lebanese multidisciplinary artist and designer Nathalie Harb represents an innovative, multifaceted initiative focused on transforming public hard-surface areas, such as parking lots, into thriving urban green spaces. With a vision to enhance green spaces in light of urban development in the cities. This commitment is a driving force behind her choice to repurpose parking spaces, effectively providing different layers of nature into the urban landscape. As part of Dubai Design Week, the initiative has been adapted to serve as a hub for discussions, workshops and labs, all centered around the theme of sustainability and mobility. This is partnership with BMW, offering a platform to showcase their innovative electric vehicles. BMW actively work to pioneer the future of sustainable luxury by pursuing a holistic approach at every step. ‘Urban Hives’ is a focal point for the BMW vision for a sustainable future—one that’s rooted in circularity and eco-consciousness, and one that rethinks and transforms its environment.
– Editions de Parfums Frédéric Malle unveils ‘Portrait of a Lady’, a commissioned exhibition of three Middle Eastern female photographers as they interpret one of Frédéric Malle’s most iconic fragrances, building on his ethos of collaborating closely with creatives. A series of portraits by photographers Malak Kabbani, Amina Zaher and Hayat Osamah .provides a nuanced ode to women of the region; from immortalizing strong multifaceted Arab women to documenting muses from the heart of Saray.
– The Art Jameel Shop will offer a curated selection of works ranging from exclusive commissioned products by local and regional designers, limited edition artworks and ceramics, children’s products and publications. This year, the space will also host public talks and workshops, including seminars run by Tashkeel to support local designers, artists and creative entrepreneurs; alongside food and drinks by specialty café FRAME.
– Made51 is a global brand of artisanal home décor and accessories created by UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, in an effort to bring refugee craftmanship to the world. In each product, refugees showcase their cultural heritage, share their stories as well as have the opportunity to earn a living, be self-reliant and rebuild their lives with dignity. Made51 products will be available for sale at the Art Jameel Shop in d3, during Dubai Design Week.
– In an example of how design can be used as a tool for humanitarian aid, a collaboration between UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and IKEA Foundation presents Hope Starts with a Home: Redesigning Relief Housing Units showcases an innovative flatpack shelter solution. With over 85,000 units delivered worldwide, these shelters can be rapidly deployed after disasters to provide immediate protection for displaced families; and recognizing that displacements often last far longer than anticipated, can be customized with local materials to create a sense of home.
– Saporiti Italia will launch the ‘Saporiti Design Experience’, a research laboratory in collaboration with Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) that will challenge DIDI students to re-design their classic Miamina Chair designed in 1984 by renowned architectural firm Salvati & Tresoldi.
– The Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) based in d3, will present a series of engaging design workshops, student and designer exhibits and campus tours designed for visitors to get a glimpse of what it would be like to study at DIDI.
– in5, an enabling platform for entrepreneurs and startups part of TECOM Group, presents The North Star, the regions largest 3D printed exhibition. Developed and built by Nyxo Studios, an in5 start up, the North Star signifies the principle of guiding individuals in their goals.
Maker Space
Maker Space is Dubai Design Week’s dedicated workshops’ programme that facilitates the process of pursuing, practising and polishing a range of skills across design disciplines.
Throughout the week, there will be over 50+ workshops catering to visitors of all ages and levels, and are hosted by a range of professionals from across the region. Highlights include Glass Fusing by Hadia Roushdy, Sustainable Packaging Design from Ithra (King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture), Recycling + Reforming by Precious Plastic Dubai, Palestinian Motifs by Areen Hassan as well as sessions hosted by AUS and AUD.
Talks
Dubai Design Week’s programme includes a series of over 20 talks, panel discussions and masterclasses, bringing together a diverse array of regional and international creatives and thought leaders, to share industry insights, exchange ideas and encourage debate.
Hosted at Downtown Design, on the d3 Waterfront Terrace, The Forum is Dubai Design Week’s main platform to promote interaction, connectivity and dialogue. This year’s roster of speakers includes: global trend forecaster Lidewij Edelkoort, acclaimed fashion designer Ozwald Boateng OBE and renowned designers Ross Lovegrove, Nina Magon and Sebastian Herkner.
Joining panel discussions on pressing topics in the Middle East’s fast-evolving creative industries are names including architects Wael Awar and Sumaya Dabbagh, as well as sought-after designer duo David Raffoul and Nicolas Moussalem (David/Nicolas).
The Marketplace
The Marketplace at Dubai Design Week, a weekend-long, outdoor retail experience, returns to Dubai Design District (d3) from 11 – 12 November. This year, the Marketplace presents an even more varied experience, with 80 brands participating for the first time. Bringing together some of the best homegrown small businesses, the market is a place of discovery for the whole family to shop, eat and connect.
Since its establishment in 2015, Dubai Design Week has earned international recognition, emerging as a prominent stage for emerging and established designers to exhibit their creations, engage with industry experts and gain visibility in the Middle East and abroad. Thanks to its programming, international presence, dedication to innovation, and promotion of local talent, it has helped shape Dubai’s identity as a vibrant hub for design and creativity in the Middle East.
