Dubai Design Week

Back for an eight season, Dubai Design Week, in partnership with Dubai Design District (d3), will run from 8 – 13 November, this year.

“The annual event is one of the region’s most significant cultural occasions, with a line-up of programming demonstrating Dubai’s commitment to design,” note the organisers.

“This year’s programming is focused on designing a sustainable future, through the theme Design with Impact.”

An installation in the form of a boxing ring? Knockout.
Bokja invites spectators to engage and answer grand questions epitomising global issues. Bedecked with natural iconography on the brand’s signature textiles, the boxing ring will feature a surrealist depiction of a punching bag, packed and loaded to signify the topics at hand.

This will include a “series of immersive installations that demonstrate innovative design thinking: using materials that spark conversations around how design can have a positive impact on the environment”.

The line-up also includes exhibitions that “explore design at the junction of technology, craft, architecture and academia”, collaborative workshops and a Design Market by FLTRD – a homegrown retail offering showcasing the best local artisans and products.

Taking centre-stage at Dubai Design Week is OBMI’s thoughtful structure “Once Upon A Forest” which centralizes on the UAE’s natural and resilient nature, while honouring the UAE’s stunning mangroves. OBM International (OBMI)

While the headline commercial event, Downtown Design, will take place from 9 to 12 November and feature over 200 brands and designers from around the globe.

Three exhibitions and installations not to miss are:

D3 Architecture Exhibition – a showcase of nine projects by international and regional architecture firms that champion innovative design and sustainable materials that have a positive impact on the environment.

Matter-ials – a series of indoor installations that “underscore prominent environmental issues and symbolise the opportunity created by materials that matter”.

Design in the Metaverse – an exhibition where visitors can experience immersive activations and workshops from leading Metaverse brands and discover how technology is pushing the boundaries of design.