Dubai Design Week 2024 celebrated its 10th anniversary with a display of global creativity and innovation. This milestone event held at Dubai Design District (d3) brought together extraordinary design talents, showcasing ideas across art, architecture, and technology. From immersive installations to thought-provoking discussions, it highlighted the region’s growing influence in design. Here are ten standout moments that made this year’s edition unforgettable.

1. A global stage for design

Courtesy: Dubai Design District/D3

The week-long event brought together over 1,000 designers, architects, and creative practitioners from 50+ countries. From established international brands to emerging local talent, the event showcased the diversity and innovation of the global design scene.

2. Editions: A new frontier for limited-edition art and design

This inaugural fair offered a curated selection of limited-edition art and design pieces, showcasing the work of both established and emerging artists. With a focus on quality and exclusivity, Editions provided a platform for collectors and enthusiasts to discover unique pieces. Highlights include Emirati designer Aljoud Lootah’s new collection for her studio’s 10th anniversary and Blooker Gallery’s timeless ‘Nian Objects’ by Nian Architects in the medium of contemporary design. In ceramics, SANATORIUM features Çağla Köseoğulları’s clay ‘Road Series’, while Hestia Gallery showcases Elsa Foulon’s organic lights amongst other designers. Works on paper feature mixed media works by Mohammed Kacimi with Comptoir Des Mines Galerie and Bernar Venet’s etchings with Waddington Custot.

3. Abwab Commissions: Celebrating regional heritage and innovation

Courtesy: D3/ A Present/Absent Mudhif by Ola Saad Znad

The program highlighted the work of talented regional designers, focusing on sustainable materials and innovative techniques. The commissioned projects explored themes of cultural heritage, environmental sustainability, and community engagement, showcasing the diversity and creativity of the Middle East’s design scene. Three regional practices were selected: A Present/Absent Mudhif by Ola Saad Znad (Iraq) portrays the Marsh Arabs’ architectural heritage in Iraq using reeds and ancient Sumerian techniques; ReRoot by Dima Al Srouri (Jordan/Palestine), Dahlia Hamati (Lebanon/Palestine), Andy Cartier (France) and Rosa Hämäläinen (Finland) explores emergency housing solutions through an ecological lens using palm waste and mycelium, a material derived from fungi; and Material Witnesses and Narrating Lifeforms by Miriam Hillawi Abraham (Ethiopia) draws inspiration from ‘coral stone’ found in early settlements on the East African coast and the UAE.

4. Urban Commissions: Reimagining public spaces

Courtesy: D3/ TukTukDum by Altqadum

The winning design for this year’s competition, TukTukDum, was a testament to the power of design to foster community and creativity. This interactive installation, inspired by traditional Gulf music, invites visitors to engage with the piece and create their own musical experiences.

5. Immersive installations

Courtesy: D3/ BMW’s “The Luxury of Less” pavilion

The event featured over 40 large-scale installations, offering visitors a multi-sensory experience. From BMW’s “The Luxury of Less” pavilion to Caracol’s live 3D printing demonstration, these installations pushed the boundaries of design and technology.

6. A curated selection of exhibitions 

Courtesy: D3/ L’ÉCOLE Middle East “Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection” exhibition

From the UAE Designer Exhibition to Design Next, these exhibitions showcased the latest trends and innovations in design. Visitors had the opportunity to explore a wide range of design disciplines, including furniture, fashion, product design, and architecture. What caught our eye was the L’ÉCOLE Middle East “Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection” exhibition, showcasing a collection of over 700 men’s rings from the late French collector. The exhibition provided a unique opportunity for Middle Eastern audiences to explore the world of men’s jewelry and the personal tastes of the collector.

7. Engaging workshops and masterclasses

Courtesy: D3/ Hind Al Oud

The Maker Space program offered a variety of hands-on workshops, from 3D printing to textile design, catering to both beginners and experienced designers. Participants could learn new skills, experiment with different materials, and connect with other creative individuals.

8. Impact led activations

Courtesy: D3/ Hind Al Oud

Dubai Design Week featured a variety of activations and pop-ups, including a multi-sensory perfume experience by Hind Al Oud, a Monocle Shop & Cafe pop-up, and an interactive reading lounge by Design Doha. The Art Jameel Space showcased works by local and regional creatives, and social impact products by organizations like Made51 and Mawaheb. Additionally, visitors could learn about sustainable materials like Desert Board, used for the festival’s signage and wayfinding.

9. Vibrant marketplace

The Dubai Design Week Marketplace offered a unique shopping experience featuring a curated selection of products from local and international designers. Visitors could discover a wide range of products, from handcrafted jewelery and sustainable fashion to home decor and art.

10. A celebration of culture and community

The event fostered a sense of community and cultural exchange, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds to celebrate the power of design. Through exhibitions, workshops, and social events, Dubai Design Week created a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and inspiration.