Dubai's sneaker community has another reason to head to City Walk this weekend.
Design Dome is hosting the Bespoke Sneaker Fair, a free three-day event celebrating custom footwear, wearable art, and independent design. Whether you collect limited-edition sneakers or simply have an old favourite pair that deserves a second life, the event offers a chance to experience custom sneaker culture up close.
Visitors can browse exclusive hand-painted sneakers created by Dubai-based artist Diviya Tilani, purchase one-of-a-kind designs, or bring their own sneakers for a personalised makeover starting from AED 200.
With live customisation sessions, artist consultations, and unique wearable artwork, the fair offers something different from the typical retail experience.
A Weekend Dedicated to Custom Sneakers
The Bespoke Sneaker Fair takes place over three days at Design Dome, City Walk.
The event begins on Friday, July 24, from 7:00 pm until 10:00 pm, before continuing on Saturday and Sunday, July 25 and 26, from 11:00 am until 8:00 pm.
Entry is completely free, making it an accessible stop for sneaker enthusiasts, fashion lovers, artists, and anyone curious about personalised footwear.
Event Details
Event: Bespoke Sneaker Fair
Location: Design Dome, City Walk, Dubai
Dates:
- Friday, July 24: 7:00 pm – 10:00 pm
- Saturday, July 25: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
- Sunday, July 26: 11:00 am – 8:00 pm
Entry: Free
Sneaker Customisation: From AED 200
Ready-Made Designs: AED 650–AED 1,350
Bring Your Old Sneakers Back to Life
One of the biggest attractions is the opportunity to customise your own sneakers.
Instead of replacing worn-out shoes, visitors can bring an existing pair and work directly with the artist to create something completely unique. During on-site consultations, customers can discuss colours, artwork, themes, and design ideas before the customisation process begins.
Simple concepts may be completed on the same day, while more detailed commissions can take up to five days before collection.
The result is a personalised pair that cannot be replicated.
Exclusive Hand-Painted Designs Available
For visitors who would rather purchase finished artwork, the event also features an exclusive collection of hand-painted sneakers available for immediate purchase.
Prices range between AED 650 and AED 1,350, depending on the complexity of each design.
Every pair is individually painted, meaning no two sneakers are identical.
Rather than mass-produced graphics, each design reflects hours of hand-crafted work, transforming familiar sneaker silhouettes into collectible pieces of wearable art.
Inspired by Dubai and Beyond
Diviya Tilani's work draws inspiration from multiple artistic influences.
Some designs celebrate the UAE through desert landscapes, camel illustrations, and regional colour palettes. Others incorporate playful details including decorative charms, layered textures, rope work, intricate lace arrangements, and mixed materials.
Several creations also reference well-known Dubai dining destinations and elements of the city's lifestyle culture, creating footwear that feels closely connected to the local creative scene.
The variety means visitors can expect far more than traditional sneaker painting.
Meet the Artist Behind the Designs
Dubai-based artist and designer Diviya Tilani has built a reputation for combining fine art with fashion.
Her background spans traditional painting alongside historical costume construction, allowing her to experiment with textures, layering techniques, and unconventional materials.
She also serves as a resident artist and co-founder of Design Dome, the City Walk creative space that brings together fashion, art, exhibitions, workshops, and specialty coffee under one roof.
For Tilani, sneakers have evolved beyond everyday footwear into a form of personal expression.
Every commission aims to reflect the owner's personality, interests, and individual style rather than following trends.
Why Sneaker Customisation Is Growing in Dubai
Dubai has developed one of the region's fastest-growing sneaker communities.
Limited-edition releases regularly attract long queues, while resale culture, independent designers, and sneaker conventions continue to expand throughout the city.
At the same time, consumers are increasingly looking for products that feel personal rather than mass-produced.
Custom sneaker art allows owners to transform familiar footwear into something unique without purchasing another limited-edition release.
Events like the Bespoke Sneaker Fair also make the creative process more accessible by allowing visitors to meet artists in person instead of arranging commissions through private appointments or social media.
The result is a more interactive experience that combines fashion, creativity, and craftsmanship in one location.
More Than Just Shopping
Unlike a traditional retail pop-up, the Bespoke Sneaker Fair focuses on creativity as much as commerce.
Visitors can observe the customisation process, discuss design concepts directly with the artist, explore different artistic techniques, and gain insight into how custom footwear is produced.
For aspiring artists, designers, and sneaker collectors, the event offers a behind-the-scenes look at the craftsmanship involved in turning everyday shoes into collectible pieces.
It also reflects Dubai's growing support for independent creatives and locally produced design.
Why This Matters
Dubai's fashion scene continues to evolve beyond luxury retail by creating experiences that combine shopping with creativity.
The Bespoke Sneaker Fair highlights how local artists are finding new ways to personalise everyday products while giving consumers direct access to independent designers.
As custom fashion becomes increasingly popular, events like this help strengthen Dubai's creative economy while encouraging sustainable thinking by extending the life of existing footwear through artistic restoration instead of replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Bespoke Sneaker Fair free to attend?
Yes. Entry to the event is completely free throughout all three days.
Can I bring my own sneakers?
Yes. Visitors can bring their own sneakers for custom artwork, with prices starting from AED 200.
How much do the ready-made sneakers cost?
Exclusive hand-painted sneakers are priced between AED 650 and AED 1,350.
How long does customisation take?
Simple designs may be completed on the same day, while more detailed artwork may require up to five days before collection.
Where is Design Dome?
Design Dome is located in City Walk, Dubai.
