Marking the region’s first major cultural event to return in physical form since the beginning of the pandemic, the sixth edition of Dubai Design Week presents a diverse programme of 150+ events and activities in d3 and across the city.
Marking the region’s first major cultural event to return in physical form since the beginning of the pandemic, the sixth edition of Dubai Design Week presents a diverse programme of 150+ events and activities in d3 and across the city.
It includes free-to-attend exhibitions including local, regional and international institutes showcasing and inviting visitors to explore their takes on innovative design across diverse fields including product, interiors, architecture and multimedia; pop-ups ranging from brands offering pre-loved clothes and accessories that are ethical and eco-responsible to design studios offering insights to new XL 3D printing techniques for architecture; digital talks for the design community and the industry; hands-on workshops for all ages; outdoor installations offering a glimpse of how the local as well as international designers’ responses to the challenges arising from the requirement of physical distancing, alongside unique retail experiences and activities for visitors of all ages. With a focus on redefining and reimagining the way we will live in a COVID-impacted world, the festival incorporates all safety measures within the open-air setting of Dubai Design District (d3).
“These extraordinary times have been a test for us all, but what they’ve also done is reinforce our support for the creative industries and Dubai Design Week plays a critical role in that. As the festival’s strategic partner and host, visitors can expect a safe environment when they return to our community for the six-day event, with an impressive programme of installations, urban interventions, exhibitions, pop-ups and talks. Design and creativity matter now more than ever and Dubai Design Week is an opportunity for us to come together around shared values, promote local and international talent and celebrate achievements, as we navigate the region’s next chapter of growth and innovation.” says Khadija Al Bastaki, Executive Director of Dubai Design District (d3).
This year’s programme also saw the launch of new initiatives including the UAE Designer Exhibition showcasing works from 20 UAE-based designers in d3; a brand-new retail experience in the form of a large-scale outdoor marketplace, bringing together 70+ the best of Dubai’s artisans, creatives and entrepreneurs in d3, taking place on 13-14 November as well as Downtown Design’s Digital Fair highlighting 150 brands from around the world and Global Grad Show's virtually interactive 2020 exhibition.
“Dubai Design Week is a pioneering event on the emirate’s agenda and plays a pivotal role in expanding design and innovation horizons locally, regionally and globally” added HE Hala Badri, Director General of Dubai Culture, “At Dubai Culture, we recognise the positive impact of cooperation and we welcome local and international partnerships that would provide opportunities to empower creative industries and talents. Through our support of Dubai Design Week, we are keen to allocate resources to also support talents, innovators and entrepreneurs. Our support of the event and its initiatives aligns with our duties towards the cultural and creative sectors as well as with the sectoral pillar of our updated strategic roadmap.”
The extensive weekend programme on 13-14 November offers activities for all the family in d3 and children of all skill levels from the ages of 5+ can join a variety of drop-in activities for all the family from seed planting to pottery classes. Visitors will also be able to enjoy a wide range of food and beverage offerings from pop-ups that offer fresh organic produce straight from the farm to Palestinian flatbreads, as well as many of Dubai’s best restaurants, cafes and bars based in d3.