Dubai Design Week 2025 will return for its 11th edition from 4 to 9 November, taking over Dubai Design District (d3) with a vibrant programme of creativity and innovation. The festival, one of the city’s key cultural events, will bring together renowned international designers, emerging artists, and a striking line-up of public installations.
This year’s theme is “Community”, aligning with the UAE’s Year of Community 2025. The focus reflects Dubai’s ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration and creating inclusive spaces through design.
Installations and exhibitions across D3
Visitors can expect to see 30 large-scale outdoor installations transforming public areas of D3. These works will be created by designers, architects, and creative collectives from around the world. Many of the installations are designed to be interactive, making them engaging for both professionals and the wider public.
The centrepiece of this year’s urban commission is titled When Does a Threshold Become a Courtyard?—an exploration of how shared spaces shape social connections. Alongside it, the Downtown Design Fair will return to showcase contemporary design brands and provide a platform for business and creative exchange.
Editions: A limited-edition showcase
Between 6 and 9 November, the Editions fair will present limited-edition art and design objects. More than 50 local and international galleries, studios, and collectives will participate, highlighting rare and one-of-a-kind pieces. This segment of Dubai Design Week offers collectors and design enthusiasts the chance to discover unique works that blend artistry with craftsmanship.
Marketplace and local talent showcase
Supporting Dubai’s homegrown creative community, a design marketplace will be built at d3 throughout the week. This pop-up market will feature local producers and artisans selling everything from jewellery and fashion to homeware and lifestyle pieces. Beyond shopping, the marketplace will also feature food experiences, live performances, and dedicated activities for children, making it a lively stop for families as well.
Workshops and interactive spaces
Hands-on learning will once again be a highlight of Dubai Design Week. The Maker Space workshops will open their doors to visitors of all ages, offering sessions on design, craft, and innovation.
Once again a highlight of Dubai Design Week, the Maker Space workshops will open their doors to visitors of all ages. The sessions cover design, craft, and innovation, encouraging creativity and making the world of design accessible to everyone through simple DIY projects and advanced design techniques.
Abwab Pavilion: In the Details
The Abwab initiative, a signature element of Dubai Design Week, will return with a new focus on “In the Details”. Emerging designers from West, South, and East Asia, along with Africa, will showcase their work through installations and projects that highlight the power of intricate design elements. This platform not only introduces new voices to the regional design scene but also reflects Dubai’s role as a connector of global talent.
Talks and international expertise
In addition to exhibitions and installations, Dubai Design Week 2025 will feature a series of talks and panel discussions. International design leaders, architects, and innovators will share insights into trends, sustainability, and the role of design in shaping communities. These sessions will offer valuable perspectives for industry professionals and students, while also engaging a wider audience interested in design culture.
Urban Commissions and public space design
The Urban Commissions competition will once again invite designers and architects to reimagine public furniture and shared spaces. The winning design will be prototyped and exhibited during the week, with the possibility of being implemented in real-life urban environments across Dubai. This initiative not only encourages innovation but also allows design to play a tangible role in shaping the city.
Dubai Design Week 2025 stands out
Dubai Design Week has established itself as one of the Middle East’s leading design festivals, attracting global attention while nurturing local talent. It provides a platform for professionals, students, and residents to explore how design can connect people, create new opportunities, and inspire everyday life.
With its focus on community, interactive experiences, and international collaborations, the 2025 edition promises to deliver one of the most dynamic and inclusive programmes to date.
Key dates
- Dubai Design Week 2025: Tuesday 4 – Sunday 9 November
- Editions Fair: Thursday 6 – Sunday 9 November
- Downtown Design Fair: Throughout the week at d3
Dubai Design Week 2025 is more than a festival. It is a platform where creativity meets community, a space where Dubai’s residents and visitors can engage with design in its many forms. Whether through large-scale installations, thought-provoking talks, or family-friendly activities, the week celebrates the city’s role as a global hub for culture and innovation.
For those in Dubai this November, it’s an unmissable event.
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