Latest news with #LatifabintMohammedbinRashidAlMaktoum
Gulf Today
27-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
11th edition of Dubai Design Week takes stage on November 4-9 at d3
Dubai Design Week (DDW) will celebrate its 11th edition from November 4-9 under the patronage of Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) and member of Dubai Council. The region's leading design festival and an annual celebration of creativity and culture, DDW is held in strategic partnership with Dubai Design District (d3), a member of TECOM Group PJSC, and supported by Dubai Culture. DDW 2025 coincides with the UAE's 'Year of Community'; this year's programme therefore reflects the theme through a focus on social cohesion, participation and shared experiences. Design will be explored not only as a practice of innovation, but as a social connector and as a civic and cultural tool that can shape how we live together, communicate, and build caring systems. Since 2015, DDW has grown into a global platform with an emphasis on cross-cultural exchange and on amplifying voices from West and South Asia, as well as the wider Global South (encompassing countries in Africa, Latin America, most of Asia and Oceania). Through exhibitions, fairs, large-scale installations, talks and workshops, the festival engages with contemporary narratives, creating a space for dialogue, experimentation and progress, harnessing its position as a regional melting pot and creative hub. Welcoming designs at Dubai Design Week. Key venues are located across d3, the global creative ecosystem dedicated to design, fashion, architecture and art. This year's highlights include Urban Commissions, DDW's annual competition, open to proposals from global practices, giving international architects and designers an opportunity to shape public spaces through community-driven design. Under the theme 'Courtyard', Urban Commissions calls on practitioners to reflect on a shared spatial form and explore its multifaceted role as a gathering place and community-led urban infrastructure. Abwab, meaning 'doors' in Arabic, is a long-running feature at DDW. Newly expanded to welcome applicants from across West, South and East Asia, as well as the African continent which are often unrepresented or unrepresented on global platforms, this year's theme, 'In the Details', invites practitioners to create immersive spatial experiences, engaging with historic cultural forms. Exhibitions serve as a platform for cultural organisations, educational institutions, collectives and individual designers to express cultural, social and environmental perspectives, showcasing cutting-edge design solutions across disciplines. Linda Nieuwstad's floral installation. Outdoor installations from designers, architects, collectives, creative practitioners, and design-led brands, will explore design's potential to foster inclusive, community-focused environments through the use of sustainable and socially responsible methods and materials. The festival's programme of workshops will be held at Maker Space, offering visitors of all ages and skill levels the opportunity to engage and experiment with a diverse range of artistic mediums. Alongside, the activations programme will unveil innovative and immersive projects, cross-disciplinary collaborations, pop-ups, and special presentations. Marketplace offers a curated retail experience featuring high-quality and original products by the region's best artisans, entrepreneurs and small businesses, alongside food experiences, children's activities and live performances. Downtown Design, the Middle East's leading fair for high-quality and contemporary design, returns to the d3 Waterfront Terrace (November 5-9), showcasing the latest collections and design innovations from around the world. Returning exhibitors including Lasvit, Kartell, Poltrona Frau, Obegi Home, Venini, and Vitra will present new concepts alongside new participants Roche Bobois, Stellar Works, FRAMA, Porada and Desalto. Designer duo Draga & Aurel will present a solo exhibition for Collectional, and French designer Stephanie Coutas will showcase high-end interiors and collectible design pieces. The fair will feature experiential concepts and immersive installations including the Solaire Lounge by Veuve Clicquot and a pop-up collaboration between Buccellati and design studio david/Nicolas. The Forum returns with live talks and keynotes, headlined by Tom Dixon, who makes his Dubai debut. Installations at Dubai Design Week, 2024. At the heart of Downtown Design, the UAE Designer Exhibition, supported by Dubai Culture, returns with an evolved format after five editions, expanding mentorship for emerging creatives and international showcase opportunities. Following a successful debut in 2024, Editions, the region's first fair dedicated to limited-edition art and design, will take place November 6-9, with a preview on November 5, at the d3 Waterfront Terrace. It will showcase 50 local and international galleries, design studios and collectives across a diverse range of mediums including artist multiples, ceramics, photography, works on paper, prints, editions, and contemporary design. The 2025 d3 Architecture Exhibition, organised by d3 in partnership with Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) aligns with DDW's theme in response to the UAE's 'Year of Community' initiative and will take place in a dedicated space in the creative district. Rooted in the UAE's values of resilience, ambition and openness, the Year of Community is dedicated to fostering a united and empowered society, aiming to strengthen family and social ties and unlock potential for sustainable growth. A scene from Dubai Design Week 2024. Reflecting Dubai's position as the design capital of the Middle East, DDW's varied programmes which include installations, new commissions, exhibitions, talks, workshops, a marketplace, the leading fair for contemporary design, Downtown Design and the Middle East's first limited-edition art and design fair, Editions, will enhance Dubai's position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. Dubai Design District (d3), a member of TECOM Group PJSC, is a global creative ecosystem dedicated to design, fashion, architecture and art, offering a variety of multi-brand boutiques, fashion brands, and art and design studios. Dubai Culture is committed to enriching Dubai's cultural ecology based on the UAE's heritage, and builds bridges of constructive dialogue between various cultures.
Mid East Info
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Mid East Info
Dubai Culture Launches Open Call for 14th Sikka Art & Design Festival
Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has opened applications for the 14th Sikka Art & Design Festival, which will be held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture. The event will run from 23 January to 1 February 2026 in Al Shindagha Historic Neighbourhood, providing an innovative platform that unites multiple art forms while celebrating Emirati and GCC-based talent, both emerging and established. The festival empowers creatives to showcase their works and enrich Dubai's artistic scene, reinforcing the emirate's standing as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. Dubai Culture invites creatives, both individuals and collectives from various art forms, such as visual art, design, new media, photography, public art and installations, ceramics, performing arts, and urban culture to participate. The festival, which is part of Dubai's Quality of Life Strategy, welcomes submissions from music performers, workshop facilitators, panellists for talks and discussions, food market vendors and culinary specialists, as well as design and cultural retailers all of which bring fresh momentum to Dubai's cultural landscape and help elevate the city's international profile. The Authority will begin accepting applications for participation from June 30 to September 1. A team of expert curators will review entries and select works eligible for the event, which falls under the Sikka Platform. Participants are required to submit work that reflect their perspectives and the richness of the local community and ensure that all pieces are new and have not been previously produced or displayed elsewhere. The 13th edition of the festival drew more than 160,000 visitors and featured over 364 artists who exhibited around 390 artworks and installations across 16 houses, 14 courtyards, and the neighbourhood's alleyways. Thirteen murals were on display, each distinguished by its unique concept and ability to capture the spirit, heritage, and culture of Dubai. The previous edition also included a diverse range of sculptures and nearly 45 public art installations, aligning with the Dubai Public Art Strategy. Over 460 workshops were organised, covering areas such as art, design, architecture, and traditional crafts, with nearly 6,000 participants. Attendees had the opportunity to experience 105 live shows, 18 theatrical acts, seven orchestra concerts, and nine piano recitals. 'The Culinary House' exhibited seven art pieces inspired by saffron. More than 17 retail outlets provided artists and makers with a space to connect with their audiences and grow their businesses, helping over 50 entrepreneurs thrive.
Mid East Info
12-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Talent Atelier Programme, a Unique Platform to Foster Dialogues Between Creative Arts Disciplines and the Art of Jewellery
Dubai Culture and L'ÉCOLE Middle East announce the open call for the second edition Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced the open call for the second edition of 'Talent Atelier,' organised in partnership with L'ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels. The initiative offers participants an opportunity to expand their understanding of jewellery arts through in-class learning, hands-on practice and mentorship with industry experts. It aligns with Dubai Culture's mission to support the cultural and creative industries and strengthen Dubai's position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. Emirati and UAE-based practitioners across multiple arts disciplines, such as visual arts, graphic and interior design, architecture and jewellery arts are invited to apply for the programme, which falls under the umbrella of the Dubai Cultural Grant, an initiative under the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy. Six selected designers will be chosen to attend a series of trainings and workshops in three phases: Phase 1: Dubai – from 30 June to 11 July 2025 at L'ÉCOLE Middle East's campus in Dubai Design District (d3). The sessions will explore the history and cultural evolution of jewellery, provide insights into gemstones and their properties, and introduce key methods used in fine craftsmanship. Participants will also develop their concepts into detailed sketches and initial proposals. Phase 2: Paris –from 1 to 7 September 2025 at L'ÉCOLE's France & Europe campus, located at the Hôtel de Mercy-Argenteau on the Grands Boulevards, to deepen their understanding of jewellery arts through courses and immersive experiences. Phase 3: Showcase of conceptualised projects in Dubai displaying proposed adaptations expressing knowledge and know-how. Applications are open until 1 st of June 2025. Submissions will be reviewed by a jury of industry professionals, who will assess each applicant's background, artistic approach, engagement with different media, and commitment to completing all stages of the initiative. Evaluation will be based on criteria, including material use, artistry, and the ability to produce original and distinctive work. The Talent Atelier programme aims to broaden the horizons of the UAE's creative talents and to enrich their knowledge of the forms of jewellery arts. The programme symbolises the strength of Dubai Culture and L'ÉCOLE Middle East's ongoing partnership, reflecting their shared goal of cultivating a vibrant cultural and creative ecosystem within the UAE and internationally, fostering a cross-cultural collaboration, elevating the UAE's talents and skills on the global artistic stage. About Dubai Culture & Arts Authority: Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is committed to enriching Dubai's cultural scene based on the UAE's heritage, and is building bridges of constructive dialogue between various cultures to enhance Dubai's position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent. Dubai Culture is keen on reviving and preserving the emirate's historical heritage and developing the regulatory frameworks for the cultural and creative sector in line with its strategic roadmap 2020 – 2025. The Authority also seeks to empower the enablers that support talent and stimulate active public participation by investing in the various assets under its remit, including the management of five heritage sites, five museums, Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children, 17 archaeological sites and nine Dubai Public Library branches, all of which help contribute to creating an economic system that invigorates the cultural and creative industries. The Authority also offers 8 services and 26 sub-services. About L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts: Established in 2012 with the support of Van Cleef & Arpels, L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts aims to introduce the public to all aspects of jewelry culture through various activities: courses, workshops, conversations, exhibitions, research, books and podcast. Activities at L'ÉCOLE cover three main areas: the history of jewelry, the world of gemstones and the savoir-faire of jewelry-making techniques. The courses are open to everyone, with no prerequisites: complete beginners as well as enlightened amateurs, collectors and those with a curiosity for the world of jewelry. Students experiment with gestures, skills and tools, guided by their lecturers – art historians, gemologists and craftsmen. L'ÉCOLE now has four permanent addresses: in Paris, Hong Kong, Shanghai and Dubai. The Middle Eastern campus was established in Dubai at d3 in April 2024. All proceeds from L'ÉCOLE Middle East's public courses and talks are donated to Dubai Cares to support youth education programs, underscoring the school's commitment to social responsibility and youth empowerment. Moreover, since its inception, L'ÉCOLE regularly travels abroad, in Europe, America, Asia and the Middle East, for talks, exhibitions or travelling course programs that can last one to three weeks. L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts therefore contributes to the promotion and visibility of jewelry culture on an international scale.
Gulf Insider
06-05-2025
- Business
- Gulf Insider
Dubai Ranked World's Top Destination for Foreign Direct Investments
Dubai has been ranked the best city in the world for foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in the cultural and creative industries for the third consecutive year. In 2024, Dubai attracted 971 projects in the sector, with total FDI capital inflows reaching AED18.86bn ($5.1bn), resulting in the creation of 23,517 new jobs. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), affirmed that Dubai's continued rise as a leading global hub for the creative economy reflects the far-reaching vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. She noted that Dubai's top global ranking for the number of foreign direct investment projects in the cultural and creative industries (CCI) in 2024, as reported by the Financial Times' 'fDi Markets' and its 'Creative Industries Cluster' classification, reaffirms the emirate's pioneering role in shaping a sustainable, innovation-driven creative economy. Dubai retained its position as the top global destination for attracting Greenfield FDI projects in cultural and creative industries among 233 cities in the report for the third year in a row, surpassing major cities such as London and Singapore. This achievement was driven by the emirate's strong performance across sub-sectors within the broader cultural and creative industries ecosystem. Flexible government policies contributed to boosting FDI flows into the cultural and creative industries and strengthening Dubai's position as an attractive destination for investors, entrepreneurs, and owners of innovative initiatives and projects. These include Executive Council Resolution No. (11) of 2025 issued by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defence, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, regulating the operation of free zone establishments within Dubai. The resolution allows them to expand their business outside the free zone, provided they obtain the necessary permits from the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). The resolution aligns with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which focuses on building a dynamic business ecosystem in line with the leadership's vision to enhance competitive advantages and further improve the efficiency of local and international companies in the city. Another example is the Zero Government Bureaucracy (ZGB) programme, which aims to simplify and reduce government procedures, eliminate unnecessary requirements, and enhance efficiency, quality, and flexibility in government performance across the UAE, positioning it as an attractive destination for investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators. In addition, the recent introduction of the International Art Fairs Grant by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) offered financial support to Dubai-based galleries participating in art fairs abroad. Sheikha Latifa affirmed that Dubai's forward-looking strategies and progressive policies have been instrumental in deepening its cultural and economic diversity, transforming it into a global hub for business, creativity, and innovation and one of the world's most desirable cities to visit, live, and work in. She said: 'Guided by the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai has succeeded in building a dynamic cultural ecosystem; one that inspires creativity, welcomes talent from across the world, and fuels innovation at every level. 'Through strategic planning and pioneering initiatives, Dubai has cultivated an environment that empowers creatives, investors, and entrepreneurs to realise their ideas and turn them into impactful, sustainable projects that enrich the emirate's cultural fabric.' She said Dubai's ability to maintain its top ranking in attracting FDI in the cultural and creative industries signals investor confidence in the city's long-term vision. Sheikha Latifa said: 'FDI is not only a catalyst for economic growth but also a gateway to inclusive, long-term development. Dubai's success reflects its stature on the global cultural map and its reputation as a destination where ambition meets opportunity. 'Supported by world-class infrastructure, strategic positioning, and strong economic fundamentals, Dubai continues to be one of the fastest-growing cities for investment and talent'. She further noted that Dubai's performance across key areas of importance to the investor, including technological and innovation capabilities, efficient regulatory frameworks, financial mobility, government transparency, and investor protection, has reinforced its position as a global leader in trade, tourism, and investment, with the cultural and creative industries forming a core pillar of this continued success. According to data from the Dubai FDI Monitor, released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and based on the Dubai Framework for Cultural Statistics, the emirate attracted 971 projects in the cultural and creative industries sector in 2024. This represents an 8 per cent increase from the previous year's 898 projects. These projects generated a capital inflow of AED18.86b ($5.1bn), a nearly 60 per cent rise, and created 23,517 new jobs in 2024, a 9 per cent increase from 2023. This growth was driven by expansion in sub-sectors including: Advertising and PR Custom computer programming services Education and institutions in CCI domains CCI business services Filmmaking, media and gaming Software design specialising in advanced technologies AI Machine learning Digital engineering Cloud solutions Paint, coating and adhesive manufacturing The United States topped the list of countries for FDI capital inflows into Dubai's cultural and creative industries in 2024 with 23.2 per cent, according to the Dubai FDI Monitor and the Dubai Framework for Cultural Statistics, followed by India (13.4 per cent), the United Kingdom (9.4 per cent), Switzerland (7.6 per cent), and Saudi Arabia (4.8 per cent). India topped the list in terms of the number of FDI projects in the cultural and creative industries in 2024 with 18.8 per cent, followed by the United Kingdom (16.3 per cent), the United States (14.2 per cent), Germany (4.2 per cent), and Italy (3.7 per cent). These results reflect Dubai's targeted strategies and focus on these markets as key partners. India also led in job creation through FDI in CCI projects with 18.5 per cent, followed by the United States (14.6 per cent), the United Kingdom (13.6 per cent), Germany (4.3 per cent), and France (4 per cent). Data from the Dubai FDI Monitor, according to the Dubai Framework for Cultural Statistics, showed that greenfield wholly-owned FDI projects accounted for 76.5 per cent of the total FDI projects in the registered sectors in 2024, while new forms of investment made up 15.4 per cent, reinvestment projects 5.6 per cent, and merger and acquisition projects 2.4 per cent. Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: 'Dubai's global leadership in attracting greenfield FDI — including in the cultural and creative industries — is a direct outcome of the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and the disciplined execution of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. 'As we advance toward our goal of solidifying Dubai's position among the world's top three urban economies, the creative economy has emerged as a strategic growth enabler, enhancing competitiveness, stimulating innovation, and reinforcing Dubai's role as a magnet for top-tier talent and international investment. 'Our regulatory clarity, robust IP protection, and adoption of frontier technologies such as AI are enabling this sector to integrate with high-impact industries including media, advanced manufacturing, and tourism, creating economic value at scale.' Hala Badri, Director-General of Dubai Culture, emphasised that Dubai's top ranking in the number of FDI projects reflects its flexibility and promising investment environment that encourages creativity, as well as the strength of its legal framework that has enabled the establishment of a progressive cultural ecosystem capable of attracting entrepreneurs and creatives worldwide. She said: 'Dubai continues to cement its leadership as one of the most prominent global hubs for FDI in CCI, thanks to its future-forward vision and ability to diversify its economy. 'Its innovative strategies like the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to position the emirate among the world's top three urban economies, and the Dubai Creative Economy Strategy, which seeks to increase the contribution of the creative sector to Dubai's GDP to 5 per cent by 2026, are helping expand opportunities for investors, entrepreneurs, and creatives in the cultural and creative industries. 'This is reflected in the findings of the 'Creative Dubai: Navigating Tomorrow's Creative Landscape' report launched by Dubai Culture in December 2024 to provide a data-driven analysis of the performance of the creative economy in Dubai and its diverse investment opportunities.' Dubai's success in attracting global creative investments underscores the significance of its investment ecosystem, the evolution of its regulatory frameworks, and its dedication to fostering innovation. As the sector continues to grow rapidly, the emirate remains a magnet for global capital and a vibrant cultural scene, reinforcing its position as a global hub for the creative economy. Also read: Dubai Metro Station Renamed
Dubai Eye
05-05-2025
- Business
- Dubai Eye
Dubai retains top global spot for FDI in creative industries
For the third year in a row, Dubai has been ranked as the top global destination for attracting Greenfield FDI projects in cultural and creative industries, as per the Financial Times' 'fDi Markets' report, covering 233 cities. In 2024, Dubai attracted 971 projects in the sector, with total foreign direct investment (FDI) capital inflows reaching AED 18.86 billion, resulting in the creation of 23,517 new jobs. Dubai's achievement surpasses major cities such as London and Singapore. Flexible government policies contributed to boosting FDI flows into the cultural and creative industries (CCI) and strengthening Dubai's position as an attractive destination for investors, entrepreneurs and owners of innovative initiatives and projects. "Through strategic planning and pioneering initiatives, Dubai has cultivated an environment that empowers creatives, investors and entrepreneurs to realise their ideas and turn them into impactful, sustainable projects that enrich the emirate's cultural fabric," said Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture). Dubai has ranked as the top city worldwide in the number of foreign direct investment (FDI) projects in the cultural and creative industries for 2024, maintaining its lead for the third consecutive year. Out of 233 cities ranked in the report, Dubai outperformed major global… — Latifa MR Al Maktoum (@hhshklatifa) May 5, 2025 According to data from the Dubai FDI Monitor, released by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), and based on the Dubai Framework for Cultural Statistics, the emirate attracted 971 projects in the CCI sector in 2024, an 8 per cent increase from the previous year's 898 projects. This growth was driven by expansion in sub-sectors including advertising and PR; custom computer programming services; education and institutions in CCI domains; CCI business services; filmmaking, media and gaming; software design specialising in advanced technologies, including AI, machine learning, digital engineering and cloud solutions; and paint, coating and adhesive manufacturing. The United States topped the list of countries for FDI capital inflows into Dubai's cultural and creative industries in 2024 with 23.2 per cent, followed by India (13.4%), the United Kingdom (9.4%), Switzerland (7.6%), and Saudi Arabia (4.8%). India topped the list in terms of the number of FDI projects in the sector with 18.8 per cent, followed by the United Kingdom (16.3%), the United States (14.2%), Germany (4.2%), and Italy (3.7%). India also led in job creation through FDI in CCI projects with 18.5 per cent, followed by the United States (14.6%), the United Kingdom (13.6%), Germany (4.3%) and France (4%). Greenfield wholly-owned FDI projects accounted for 76.5 per cent of the total FDI projects in the registered sectors in 2024, while new forms of investment made up 15.4 per cent, reinvestment projects 5.6 per cent, and merger & acquisition projects 2.4 per cent.
