Dubai's Creative Evolution: A Design Week in Retrospect

Photography by Social Studio Middle East

A striking pavilion by Iraq-based architect Ola Saad Znad draws inspiration from the floating houses of the Mesopotamian Marshes in southern Iraq. A contemporary exploration of traditional shelter, the structure reflects a deep connection to its cultural and environmental roots. This and other structures were on view through out d3.

Dubai's downtown area, where I spent most of the four days, is a mix of towering buildings, ongoing construction, and undeveloped plots of land. An architecture tour provided valuable context about the city's evolution: we learned that, unlike many global cities, Dubai's contemporary architecture doesn't follow a traditional regional design style. Instead, it chases superlatives: the tallest, largest, most luxurious, and most futuristic buildings define its skyline. This architectural ambition reflects Dubai's unique position as it creates its own contemporary identity rather than drawing from a traditional vernacular style. As with any city, I found that participating in the tour significantly deepened my understanding of the culture and grounded my trip, offering a framework through which to better appreciate the city's contrasts and ambitions.

A group gathers in Omar al Gurg’s excellent curated booth of his selected works by emerging designers. Photography by Social Studio Middle East.

Downtown Design, the contemporary design trade show anchoring Design Week, took place in a large tent in Dubai Design District (d3). I arrived without specific expectations: from visiting multiple trade shows per year and starting my career at one, I know they can often be unselective and overwhelming. The fair, however, was a pleasant surprise. With around 300 exhibitions, it would be considered small and curated in comparison to larger shows. The exhibitors were of high quality — de Gournay, Venini, and other international luxury brands were present — along with smaller booths featuring artisanal and independently designed works. Highlights included former Ventura Fair producer Margriet Vollenberg’s selection of Dutch Design, Isola's platform for emerging designers, and the UAE Designer Exhibition curated by the young local designer Omar al Gurg.

An inspiring and luxurious booth design by De Gournay. Photography by Julia Haney Montanez.

A notable addition to the fair was Editions, billed as the Middle East’s first limited-edition art and design fair. It showcased works from 50 galleries, design studios, and collectives. Similar to Vollenberg’s and Isola’s contributions, this section featured some of the most compelling works, offering a glimpse into design styles emerging from the region. It felt refreshing, particularly given how contemporary design has recently leaned heavily toward luxury, with many independent designers shifting to high-end gallery representation. While materials like brass and marble have become somewhat ubiquitous, the designs at Editions stood out. They were colorful, playful, and craft-focused, drawing from regional traditions while advancing contemporary forms.

My favorite discovery at Editions was Hestia Gallery, which presented an elegant collection of bespoke design. I was particularly drawn to Clotilde Ancarani’s leaf chair. Photography by Julia Haney Montanez.

Reflecting on the experience, Dubai Design Week presents an intriguing opportunity. For European and North American designers, it may be worth exploring as a new market to exhibit their work. For interior designers, it could also be a productive addition to the trade show circuit, offering access to a fresh pool of independent design talent

An ongoing theme throughout Editions was playfulness and a respect for craftsmanship. Booker Gallery presented an eclectic collection of furniture. Presented in Omar al Gurg’s curated booth, the Sprout table lamp by independent designer Sorbe Studios is made from bioplastic and steel. Photography by Social Studio Middle East

Photography by Social Studio Middle East.