Downtown Design, Dubai’s flagship tradeshow in the heart of the Design District, returns each year under the distinguished patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority. Celebrating the region’s booming creative scene, this landmark event draws over 100,000 visitor architects, interior designers, and design enthusiasts from across the UAE and beyond.
In its latest edition, Downtown Design welcomed more than 300 leading brands and emerging talents from around the world. Highlights included the Italian Trade Agency pavilion, featuring 25 Made-in-Italy labels, and the Designed in Saudi showcase, which put nine innovative Saudi studios in the spotlight. A standout moment came courtesy of de Gournay, whose pop-up brought its renowned hand-painted wallpapers into a contemporary context.
Central to the experience is The Forum, this year reimagined by Thomas Trad with a serene blend of minimalist and Japanese influences. The space hosted keynote addresses, panel discussions and hands-on masterclasses most notably a keynote by France-based architect India Mahdavi fueling a dynamic exchange on the future of Middle Eastern design.
Local talent took center stage in the UAE Designer Exhibition, where guest curator Omar Al Gurg presented over 30 homegrown creatives whose work marries comfort with cutting-edge functionality. Meanwhile, Veuve Clicquot teamed up with Studio Marcel Poulain to deliver a sunlit lounge and terrace that captured the effervescent spirit of the Côte d’Azur. At the entrance, Dutch artist Linda Nieuwstad’s oversized floral sculptures set a vibrant, unexpected tone, weaving together tradition and modern materials.
More than a showcase, Downtown Design is an integral pillar of Dubai Design Week reinforcing the emirate’s role as the Middle East’s design capital. With 175 exhibitors and an audience that spans the entire creative industry, the event remains a must-attend platform for inspiration, discovery and connection.
