Dubai has transformed into a true capital of design, thanks to the confidence enjoyed by its thriving creative ecosystem. The world of design is witnessing a rapid transformation, with Dubai playing a pivotal role in shaping the sector's evolution.
Mette Diget-Christensen: "I look forward to seeing this evolution come to life at the fair, starting with the exceptional list of prominent names in the international design scene and extending to local initiatives, studios, and regional groups that celebrate craftsmanship and foster close collaboration. This embodies the strength of the design market in the region and highlights the diversity and spirit that now characterize Dubai's design landscape."
This year's fair attracts a select group of global brands, including Cartel, which unveils its latest innovations in distinctive industrial furniture, and Poltrona Frau, launching a series of collaborations. Objekt Home offers a multi-brand experience immersing in the details of a luxurious and contemporary lifestyle, while Huda Lighting returns with an iconic lighting exhibition that transforms space into a living artistic experience. Vinenei reveals a custom-designed amber glass composition crafted to captivate attention. Additionally, the fair welcomes prominent international participants for the first time, including Roche Bobois, Dragaa & Orelli, Desalto, Ceramica, Flos, and Borja.
Emirati talents take center stage. At Downtown Design, the "Make" fair debuts, presenting the latest cohort of the "Athan" fellowship platform, which empowers emerging designers to explore furniture design and entrepreneurship. The annual "Tanween" design program of Tashkeel also returns with a new group of nine designers for its 2025 cycle, supporting sustainable design in the UAE. Meanwhile, "Design Space-1971" in Sharjah shines a light on material innovation through the works of designers Lina Ghaleb and Nehar Zine.
The Beginning of the Journey As part of Downtown Design, the Emirati Designers fair returns for its sixth edition with an expanded organizational scope to enhance mentorship and exposure opportunities for emerging designers in the country.
Downtown Design events will run from November 5th to 9th on the terrace of the Dubai Design District. The fair is one of the leading platforms for contemporary design in the Middle East, bringing together global design brands, regional creative studios, and emerging talents. It is held in partnership with Dubai Design District of TECOM and supported by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority.
The fair attracts a curated selection of global design brands and regional studios, from rising talents to prominent names in the field, cementing its status as a leading platform for distinctive contemporary design in the Middle East.
Khawla Al Bastaki, First Vice President of TECOM - Dubai Design District, stated: "The world of design is witnessing a rapid transformation, with Dubai playing a pivotal role in shaping the sector's future. We at Dubai Design District are committed to providing a vital platform that brings together creators and the brightest talents our region has to offer with world-leading brands, to reach new horizons for idea exchange and set innovative standards in the world of design and creativity."
This year's program tells the story of a maturing industry filled with ambition and clear objectives. Supported by Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, renowned designer Nada Debbs will serve as Lead Creative Mentor this year, offering participants direct guidance and insights at the beginning of their careers alongside other experts in product design, craft, manufacturing, and materials.
In addition to a rich program of discussions, forums, and pop-up creative stores, visitors can look forward to the return of the "Editions for Art & Design" section.
Meanwhile, Director of Downtown Design Mette Diget-Christensen said: "Over the past decade, we have witnessed Dubai transform into a true capital of design, thanks to the confidence enjoyed by its thriving creative ecosystem. Each year, the fair evolves and grows, continuing to build bridges between the worlds of design and contemporary culture." She added: "This year, we have designed the Downtown Design 2025 experience to be a human-centric space dedicated to discovery, growth, and connection. We reaffirm our commitment to continuing our pioneering role in supporting the creative economy and contributing to achieving strategic goals in the design sector by 2033, thereby cementing Dubai's position as a global destination for excellence and innovation in design."
This year's edition will feature a wide range of furniture, lighting, surfaces, textiles, and home accessories, as well as limited-edition designs from around the world.
