By Zekra Alsolami
DUBAI — Dubai Design Week kicked off its 10th edition on Wednesday, bringing together over 1,000 designers, architects, and creatives from more than 50 countries to exchange ideas and showcase the positive impact of design.
This year’s event features over 40 large-scale art installations and 10 major events, including the region’s leading design fair, an inaugural limited-edition exhibition, talks, more than 60 workshops and training courses, a weekend market event, and over 150 activities aimed at inspiring and entertaining visitors.
Over the past decade, Dubai Design Week has evolved into a key annual meeting point for both emerging and established designers, brands, and cultural institutions from the region and beyond, reinforcing Dubai’s reputation as the design capital of the Middle East.
Under the patronage of Sheikha Latifa Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, and in strategic partnership with Dubai Design District (D3), the event highlights the evolution of the design sector as technology, international collaborations, and shifts in consumer trends converge.
Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of Haidabi Design Group, remarked, “The 10th edition of Dubai Design Week reflects the pulse of the creative industries through a rich and diverse range of exhibitions, creative works, dialogue sessions, and interactive workshops, consolidating Dubai’s position as a global hub for creativity and design.”
Dr. Saeed bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, emphasized the event’s role in supporting local talent. “Through initiatives like the Emirati Designers Exhibition and Dubai Design Week Market, we aim to provide Emirati designers and craftsmen with opportunities to showcase their unique creations, enriching the local cultural scene and strengthening Dubai’s creative economy.”
He also highlighted the participation of Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, reflecting efforts to invest in future generations and enhance their educational and creative capabilities. Dr. Kharbash expressed pride in the strategic partnership with Dubai Design Week, which enhances Dubai’s status within the UNESCO Creative Cities Network as a design leader in the Middle East.
Natasha Carella, Director of Dubai Design Week, stated, “As we evolve, our commitment to using design as a catalyst for positive change, addressing global challenges, and promoting sustainability and inclusion remains unwavering. Today, Dubai Design Week is not just a celebration of aesthetics but a vibrant platform for designers to share ideas and create meaningful impacts.”