Downtown Design Highlights Dubai’s Creative Excellence
Part of the 11th edition of Dubai Design Week, Downtown Design is organised in strategic partnership with Dubai Design District (d3), a member of TECOM Group, and supported by Dubai Culture. The fair brings together leading local and international designers to present the latest trends in furniture, lighting, and product design, positioning Dubai as a global hub for creativity and innovation.
H.H. Sheikha Latifa emphasised the fair’s role in fostering talent and entrepreneurship, encouraging participants to showcase their ideas and transform creativity into sustainable economic opportunities. She highlighted the event as a platform for potential investment, strengthening Dubai’s position in the global creative economy.
Engaging with Designers and Exhibitors
During her visit, H.H. Sheikha Latifa met several notable designers and exhibitors, commending their innovative designs across furniture, lighting, contemporary art, and accessories. She explored works from international and regional brands including Huda Lighting, Kartell, Kohler, Poltrona Frau, Obegi Home, Venini, Roche Bobois, Stellar Works, Calico Wallpaper, Porada, and Desalto.
She also visited UAE-based Finasi, the Pakistani mother-and-son duo Yousaf Shahbaz and Saira Ahsan’s Strata, Designed in Saudi by the Architecture and Design Commission of the Saudi Ministry of Culture, and 1971 Design Space from Sharjah featuring Lina Ghalib and Nuhayr Zein.
Programs Supporting Emerging Designers
H.H. Sheikha Latifa received briefings on initiatives such as the Tanween Design Programme by Tashkeel and the Makers’ Furniture Fellowship by MAKE in Abu Dhabi, both participating in the fair for the first time. The UAE Designer Exhibition, mentored by Nada Debs, highlighted emerging talent translating local identity into contemporary craftsmanship with sustainable practices.
Immersive Installations and Collaborative Spaces
The tour included immersive environments such as the Solaire Lounge by Veuve Clicquot with Marcel Poulain Studio, the Buccellati Lounge by david/nicolas, Styled Habitat’s installation with Nordic Homeworx, and Cosentino’s hospitality setup by Studio Etéreo. H.H. Sheikha Latifa also explored ‘The Forum’ and Editions Art and Design, which bring together thought leaders and limited-edition creations from global designers.
Downtown Design continues to offer a dynamic platform for creativity, collaboration, and knowledge exchange, cementing Dubai’s reputation as a leading destination for contemporary design.