Registration, Immersive Tour, & Workshop

Time

8:30

Welcome Address from Fast Company Middle East & Msheireb Properties

Time

9:30

Designing for an Uncertain World

In a time of rapid technological change and global challenges, does design hold the power to shape a brighter future? This session explores how leaders and innovators are shifting from mere creation to purposeful action—using design to heal, sustain, and drive positive impact. Discover how reimagined design principles can tackle pressing issues, transforming uncertainty into opportunity.

Time

09:35

Panel Discussion: Multidimensional Journeys: Designing for Real Human Experience

In today’s world of multidimensional design, relying on static personas just doesn’t cut it. Join our panel to learn how brands can break free from unidimensional views and create engaging human-centered experiences. Our experts will explore innovative strategies for empathy mapping, discuss the balance between personalization and scalability, and share insights on fostering deep emotional connections through design.

Time

09:55

Is Design the Missing Link?

Thousands of new products fail every year. Is the balance of form and function the key to success? This session explores how embedding design into every aspect of product development can transform consumer experiences and significantly increase a product’s chances of success. Join us to discuss how thoughtful design can be the difference between a product that thrives and one that fades away.

Time

10:25

How is AI transforming businesses?

AI is revolutionizing product design, pushing artistic expression beyond traditional boundaries, and creating new art forms. Envision a future where AI seamlessly integrates into every aspect of business, transforming operations and enhancing creativity. This session explores how data-driven insights empower companies to craft personalized experiences and drive innovation, redefining success in a rapidly evolving marketplace.

Time

10:45

Panel Discussion: Middle Eastern Brands Defining Generations

For decades, Middle Eastern brands have thrived by combining heritage, craftsmanship, and cultural authenticity. This session explores the journey of these legacy brands, revealing how they’ve maintained relevance across generations while staying true to their roots. From their origins in regional industries to their evolution in today’s market, learn how these brands continue to influence consumer preferences and set benchmarks for quality and excellence.

Time

11:00

Fueling Innovation with Purpose-Driven Design

The design-to-value model has evolved from focusing solely on cost efficiency to embracing purpose-driven design. This approach prioritizes meaningful customer experiences, ethical considerations, and stakeholder engagement. In this session, we'll explore the benefits of investing in thoughtful design from the start and demonstrate how understanding brand identity, consumer motivations, and innovation can drive sustainable growth, increase profitability, and create lasting value for both businesses and consumers.

Time

11:30

Creative break

Time

11:50

Cooling Urban Heat: Smart Solutions for Sustainable Cities

Cities are heating up, and it's time for innovative solutions. This keynote reveals smart, sustainable strategies to combat urban heat islands—from lush green spaces to reflective rooftops. Discover how these simple yet powerful measures can lower temperatures, boost public health, and make cities more resilient. Join us for a glimpse into the future of cooler, greener urban living.

Time

12:10

Panel Discussion: AI’s Role in Building a Sustainable Future

The intersection of AI and the built environment presents both challenges and opportunities. As buildings become smarter, AI is unlocking new possibilities for reducing carbon footprints and improving energy efficiency. This session delves into how AI-driven systems are optimizing energy use and managing resources, offering a path to greener, more sustainable urban landscapes.

Time

12:30

The Future of Cities: How Media Architecture is Redefining Public Spaces

As cities evolve, the integration of media architecture—digital platforms incorporated into the built environment—will play a crucial role in reimagining urban life. This session explores how these digital facades are transforming cities, not just visually, but socially and environmentally. From public art installations to smarter, connected spaces, media architecture creates opportunities for engagement, sustainability, and connectivity.

Time

13:00

Designing the Future of Tourism: What’s Next?

Imagine a future where every journey is shaped by cutting-edge design, cultural authenticity, and environmental consciousness. This session explores how innovation is reshaping the tourism industry—from sustainable practices to immersive experiences. We’ll discuss the impact on global supply chains, evolving consumer preferences, and the role of international collaborations in crafting a new era of travel.

Time

13:20

Design as a service: How are tech solutions democratizing design

Tech solutions are transforming design from a specialized skill to an accessible service for all. This session examines how design thinking and no-code tools empower individuals across disciplines to unleash their creativity and drive innovation. Join industry leaders as we discuss the implications of this democratization on the design community and its impact on organizational problem-solving and collaboration.

Time

13:40

Panel Discussion: Creative Intelligence: How Design is Driving Innovation

In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, creativity is the competitive edge. This session delves into the intersection of design, technology, and innovation, exploring how creative intelligence is reshaping industries. From democratizing design tools to fostering global collaboration, we’ll examine how cutting-edge platforms are empowering creators to push boundaries and rethink what’s possible. What role will design play in shaping the future of business and culture, and how are brands staying ahead of the curve in a world where creativity reigns supreme?

Time

14:00

Creative Networking break

Time

14:30

How do financial services use design principles to be inclusive, efficient, and successful?

Imagine a future where financial services break barriers through cutting-edge design that prioritizes inclusivity and efficiency. This session explores how intuitive interfaces and thoughtful design can empower users, demystify financial concepts, and foster trust. Discover how integrating design as a core principle can redefine the financial landscape, creating accessible and equitable experiences that resonate with diverse communities and drive lasting success for all.

Time

15:00

How can data and insights drive better design?

Understanding customer needs is essential for creating meaningful solutions, and integrating data with design thinking is key to this process. This session examines how leveraging quantitative and qualitative insights enhances design, fostering deeper user empathy and driving innovation. Discover strategies for collaboration between designers and data analysts, and learn how this synergy can lead to impactful, user-centered outcomes that propel business growth.

Time

15:20

Panel Discussion: How is Design Saving the World?

Design is no longer just about aesthetics—it's about action. In the face of global crises, design plays a critical role in reshaping our world. From sustainable architecture to human-centered technologies, designers are finding innovative solutions to some of humanity’s biggest challenges. This session will explore the groundbreaking ways design drives change, improves lives, and paves the way for a more resilient and equitable future.

Time

15:40

Closing remarks

Time

16:30