Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, officially inaugurated the 11th edition of Downtown Design Dubai 2024 — the flagship event of Dubai Design Week — with support from Dubai Design District (d3) and the Dubai Culture team. The fair ran November 6 to 9 and remains the leading design showcase in the Middle East, bringing together global creative industries to champion Dubai's vibrant arts and design community.
Sheikha Latifa on Dubai's Creative Vision
Reflecting on the event's significance, Sheikha Latifa said: "Downtown Design reflects the energy and originality of Dubai." She highlighted how the fair gives designers tremendous opportunities for collaboration and for presenting their visions of the world's design future.
"Downtown Design is very significant in the context of the creative environment we cultivate in Dubai," she added. The event enables designers to present their creations, seek new business opportunities, and access funding — positioning Dubai firmly ahead of global competitors in the creative industries.
Designers from the Emirates Showcase
During her visit, Sheikha Latifa engaged with participants of the Designers from the Emirates exhibit, curated by Emirati designer Omar Al Gurg. The showcase featured furniture and products by more than 30 emerging Emirati designers and UAE-based creatives. She praised the creativity, quality, and cultural diversity on display.
New Sections: Editions, Saudi Arabia, and Spain
The 2024 edition introduced several thematic highlights. Designed in Saudi Arabia and Interior Designs from Spain celebrated intercultural creativity and cross-border design dialogue. The fair also launched Editions — a brand-new section dedicated to limited-edition art and design works, the first of its kind in the Middle East.
Celebrated Emirati designer Aljoud Lootah marked the 10-year anniversary of her studio with a special collection presentation. Carpet gallery Iwan Maktabi displayed works by Emirati visual artist Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim.
Dubai as a Global Design Destination
Downtown Design Dubai 2024 expanded public participation opportunities, drawing design enthusiasts and professionals from across the region and beyond. The event continues to strengthen Dubai's standing as the design capital of the Middle East and a globally recognised creative destination — a key pillar of the emirate's broader cultural economy strategy.
