The event was a vibrant tapestry of exhibitions, installations, and stalls, each offering a fresh perspective—some by reimagining traditional methods, others with a bold modern twist. Whether visual, immersive, or interactive, Dubai Design Week truly had something for everyone. That’s exactly why I couldn’t resist answering its call once again this year.
One of the highlights for me was the lively row of stalls hosted by local businesses. These spaces were a celebration of sustainability, traditional cuisines, and slow fashion. The energy here was infectious, with the aroma of mouthwatering dishes mingling with glimpses of beautifully crafted tote bags from local brands that kept pulling me back.
As a lighting designer, I couldn’t help but be captivated by certain installations that stood out. Whether it was their ingenious use of light or the intricate details that sparked new ideas, these pieces left me reflecting on how lighting can transform spaces and elevate experiences. Let me walk you through some of the most unforgettable ones.
A Present/Absent Mudhif – Ola Saad Znad
The first of the three Abwab installations, perfectly embodying this year’s theme, was a stunning recreation of a traditional gathering space for Iraq’s Marsh Arabs. Built with locally sourced reeds and mud, the structure exuded authenticity and cultural richness. The columns and entrances were beautifully illuminated with uplights, both inside and out, highlighting the intricate natural textures of the materials.
However, if I were to reimagine the lighting, I’d lean into the authenticity of the setting by incorporating traditional oil lamps. Picture this: two lamps framing each entrance, one placed in each internal corner, a pair on the central table, and a few scattered along the edges. The soft glow from these lamps would seep through the woven reeds, casting mesmerising shadows across the floor—an effect reminiscent of sunlight streaming through during the day. This interplay of light and shadow would create a delicate balance, enhancing the space’s ambience and evoking a true sense of tradition.
ReRoot – MycoSphere, Studioda and Studio Cartier
Iwan – Ithra
A foldable aluminium structure inspired by Islamic ‘Iwans’ and the abstract shapes of ‘Muqarnas’. This pavilion instantly reminded me of India’s Sheesh Mahal, where intricately arranged broken mirrors transform a single point of light into a dazzling spectacle, illuminating the space through multiple reflections.
A foldable aluminium structure, inspired by the elegance of Islamic ‘Iwans’ and the intricate geometry of ‘Muqarnas,’ immediately transported me to India’s Sheesh Mahal. Much like the palace’s artful arrangement of broken mirrors that transform a single beam of light into a mesmerising cascade of reflections, this pavilion held the potential to dazzle.
Now, imagine amplifying that brilliance by subtly backlighting the structure. Picture a gentle glow beginning at the top, gradually intensifying as it flows downward, accentuating every fold and contour of the aluminium. This interplay of light would not only highlight the intricate geometry of the ‘Muqarnas’ but also create a dynamic, almost magical, sense of movement that breathes life into the design.
Luxury of Less – AB+AC for BMW
This installation captivated the senses, appearing as a glowing, dotted cube of warm light suspended within a steel cage draped in a mysterious black veil, irresistibly pulling you closer. Described as a temple, the journey begins as you step through the steel enclosure and approach the radiant core, catching tantalising glimpses of its sanctity through circular cutouts.
Once inside the glowing heart, you’re welcomed by a luxuriously soft, cloud-like floor that gently yields beneath your feet, creating the ethereal sensation of walking on air. The space envelops you in a serene, hushed atmosphere, inviting moments of deep introspection and connection.
At first, the bold, dynamic luminaires—each uniquely positioned—command your attention with their luminous energy. Yet, as time slows in this sacred space, the lights subtly recede, cocooning you in a soothing embrace of warmth and tranquility.
Hind Al Oud – Mohaned Hilal Group
This installation quickly became one of my personal favourites, igniting my creative spirit in the most captivating way. Immersive in every sense, it was a collaborative masterpiece with poet Faisal Al-Adwani, inspired by his evocative poem Kibriya’E.
The experience began with a striking sense of dark, black opulence. The minimalist black backdrop and structure acted as a blank canvas, stripping away distractions and sharpening your senses to the carefully curated stimuli that lay ahead. Scents and sounds intertwined, leading us through a sequence of spaces separated by textured veils, each layer deepening the journey.
Every space was a thoughtful reflection of the poem’s profound themes, brought to life through soft, ambient lighting and delicate installations. As the journey unfolded, we reached a playful moment—an invitation to create our own silhouette image, a brief interlude of self-expression amidst the introspection.
Finally, the last space opened up, releasing us from this introspective odyssey into the world beyond, leaving us free, reawakened, and deeply moved. This sensory journey was poetic, reflective, and unforgettable—a true celebration of art and emotion.
Dubai Design Week 2024 was a vibrant celebration where culture, heritage, and innovation intertwined to craft a truly immersive experience. It was a place where tradition met modernity, showcasing everything from sustainable prototypes to poetic installations—all offering fresh perspectives on the power of design to shape our connection with the world.
For me, it wasn’t just about marveling at stunning structures or clever concepts; it was about the stories they told, the emotions they stirred, and the thought-provoking conversations they sparked. As I left this year’s event, I felt a renewed sense of purpose as a designer—to create spaces that inspire, connect, and honour the delicate balance between humanity and nature.
Once again, Dubai Design Week has shown us that design is far more than aesthetics—it’s a universal language that transcends boundaries, weaving stories of hope, resilience, and limitless creativity.