Dubai Design Week 2023: Returns 7-12 November

Returning from 7-12 November 2023 at its main hub in Dubai Design District (d3), a member of TECOM Group  PJSC, Dubai Design Week’s ninth edition will explore innovative design and how it plays a role in shaping the  environment. Established and emerging designers, creative studios and companies are invited to submit their proposals of  showcasing design in all mediums including but not limited to architecture, installations and experiences. In the lead  up to COP28, this year’s programme includes a series of open calls that offer funding for projects working with  sustainable materials and support for regional design excellence.

The free-to-attend event will host its most diverse program of events and activities, including exhibitions, new commissions, pop-ups, talks, workshops, as well as other innovative design projects and experiences.

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A key feature of this year’s program will be large-scale outdoor installations with a focus on how design, science, and technology can converge to reclaim materials of our past, as well as reimagine new forms that foster sustainable practices with immersive public interventions made from materials such as palm leaves, loofah, sugar, and paper pulp, with 3D printed architecture at the forefront.

The event aims to attract more than 150,000 visitors to d3’s global creative hub, including architects, designers, thought leaders, influencers and public audiences from the region and around the world, further cementing Dubai’s position as the design and creative capital of the Middle East and a UNESCO City of Design.

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Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of d3, part of TECOM Group, said, “Creative industries are not solely engines of economic growth – they shape societies and identities. By focusing on this intersection, Dubai has forged a formidable platform fueling creative innovation, collaboration, and opportunities. Through Dubai Design Week, we look forward to providing a platform for extraordinary talent hailing from d3 and the UAE, the broader region, and beyond, to exhibit their work and influences globally. This year, as always, talent will embrace our call to Rethink the Regular and springboard brilliant ideas, creations and perspectives that show us where the creative compass points. Dubai Design Week is an integral part of d3’s lively autumn calendar which reflects our vision to secure a sustainable, resilient creative economy.”

Natasha Carella, Programming Director for Dubai Design Week, commented, “Building on the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, this year’s Dubai Design Week has evolved into the most innovative edition of the festival to date. Our programme has been developed in partnership with d3 for both the design community and the general public alike. We aim to foster a dialogue around sustainability through engaging and thought-provoking initiatives and focus attention on how different practices can converge to look at sustainability, which we see as pivotal for the future of the design industry.”

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, said, “Design plays a pivotal role in expanding the horizons of design and innovation locally, regionally and globally and is a key pillar of our strategic roadmap, and we are dedicated to providing ongoing support to nurture creativity and the inspiring individuals driving it forward. This all falls in line with our responsibility towards the cultural and creative industries in the emirate as we aim to foster the growth of the creative economy and cement Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. Dubai Design Week serves as our annual tribute to the world of design and the designers who shape it, and we are proud to be continuously supporting such an inspiring initiative.”

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With 85,000 units delivered worldwide, Better Shelter, in collaboration with the UN Refugee Agency – UNHCR, will showcase their innovative flatpack refugee shelter that provides displaced individuals with mobile and safe housing.

Downtown Design celebrates a decade of design

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For its 10th edition, Downtown Design will feature the latest collections and unique design products from the region and around the world, alongside a line-up of pop-ups, panel discussions and creative experiences