Dubai Culture Highlights 15 UAE Designers at Maison&Objet in Paris

Photo: Dubai Government Media Office

The Dubai Culture & Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) has announced its exciting participation in the renowned Maison&Objet International Fair in Paris, where it will showcase the UAE Design Oasis. This event will run from January 16 to 20, 2025. The UAE Design Oasis is an important part of the Dubai Cultural Grant Programme and the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy. It brings together 15 talented UAE-based designers to present their work at this prestigious global fair, focusing on home décor and lifestyle.

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Dubai Culture’s participation is a significant step towards supporting the cultural and creative sectors in Dubai. This initiative allows local designers to showcase their talent on an international stage, strengthening Dubai’s position as a key global hub for the creative economy.

Dr. Saeed Mubarak bin Kharbash, CEO of the Arts, Design, and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, emphasized how crucial the design sector is to enhancing Dubai's reputation as a leading destination for creatives. He stated, “Dubai Culture is dedicated to advancing the design sector through various specialized initiatives. We aim to elevate the competitiveness of Dubai’s design scene, encouraging designers to push boundaries. Maison&Objet offers a vital global platform to highlight the creative talent of UAE designers, showcasing Dubai's vibrant cultural atmosphere and its commitment to supporting innovative start-ups.”

The products showcased at the fair will include a diverse range of furniture, homeware, and artistic items. These creations will combine traditional craftsmanship with modern design. For example, there will be glass sculptures, furniture inspired by palm fronds, and even tables made from compressed soil. Many of the pieces also focus on sustainability and innovation.

One standout designer is Muneera AlMulla, an Emirati artist. Her piece, ‘O-Piece: Al Safeefah Edition,’ is inspired by traditional Emirati incense burners. She has reimagined them into a multifunctional design, combining locally sourced leather and palm fronds. Another unique contribution comes from Raghad Al Ali, a Jordanian architect and designer. Her piece ‘Nudi’ uses glassblowing techniques to create beautiful, nature-inspired forms. Palestinian designer Areen Hassan offers ‘Threads,’ a design that reimagines traditional fabrics to create functional yet elegant spaces.

Several designers from One-Third Studio—Amina Bin Bishr, Duna Alajlan, and Dania Alajlan—will present ‘Tharaa,’ a modern take on the traditional mandoos chest. Emirati designer Majid Al Bastaki blends nostalgia and elegance in his design ‘Bo Naj-Ma.’ Lebanese designer Chafik Mekawi has created the ‘Nasab Bookcase,’ a bookshelf that uses handpicked books to symbolize timeless value.

Other remarkable designs include Karim Tamerji and Elias El Hage’s piece, which draws inspiration from the UAE’s desert landscapes. Egyptian designer Lina Ghalib presents her ‘Yareed Bench,’ made from recycled palm fronds. This bench blends local traditions with sustainable materials.

Hamza Al-Omari, a Palestinian designer, offers two unique pieces: ‘Markab,’ inspired by traditional Arabic calligraphy and regional boats, and ‘Nadd,’ a reimagining of the traditional incense burner. Another striking piece is ‘Palm Pulse Astronomy Byōbu,’ created by Jordanian designer Hashem AlHashem and Indian designer Zaid Abdul Shakir Seddiqi. This work combines the mysteries of the cosmos with Arabic astronomy.

Alia Mazrooei, an Emirati designer, presents ‘Takiya,’ a ceramic table that brings together the cultures of French cafés and Emirati majlis gatherings. This piece celebrates community, tradition, and social connections. Shaikha Alazeezi, another Emirati designer, showcases ‘Shams,’ a modern version of the traditional mandoos chest. Wafa AlFalahi introduces ‘Sprout,’ a table lamp made from bioplastics infused with pomegranate residue. This design explores the connection between nature and humanity.

Sheikha bint Abdulla Alserkal, in collaboration with Jordanian designer Diana Atef Hawatmeh, displays a collection of custom-designed rugs. These rugs feature unique hand-knotting techniques and vibrant colors that highlight the transformative power of art. Finally, Reem Al Bustani, an Emirati designer, has created a series of door handles inspired by traditional Emirati designs. Her pieces use vibrant colors and large glass designs that resemble pearls.

Through the UAE Design Oasis, Dubai Culture continues to empower and support the creative community, celebrating the significant contributions of these designers to both local and global cultural landscapes.