Dubai Design Week Empowers Creators at The Marketplace

Dubai’s creative spirit took centre stage as Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, met with artisans, creative entrepreneurs, and owners of small and emerging projects at Dubai Design Week. The visit reflected her continued support for the city’s growing creative community and its role in shaping Dubai’s global identity as a hub of design and innovation.

During her visit, Sheikha Latifa interacted with participants, learning about their personal journeys, inspirations, and the challenges they face while turning creative ideas into successful ventures. She praised their determination and originality, noting how passion and persistence have transformed concepts into thriving businesses.

She affirmed that Dubai will always remain a land of opportunity, welcoming talent from around the world and empowering creators to pursue their ambitions. Her words resonated deeply with the city’s vision to strengthen its position as a global centre for creativity, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

The Marketplace, one of the highlights of Dubai Design Week, brought together over 90 homegrown and regional brands offering a wide selection of homeware, jewellery, fashion, and sustainable lifestyle products. Set in a vibrant open-air space, the event blended design, gastronomy, live music, and family-friendly activities, creating an immersive experience for visitors.

Supported by Dubai Culture, The Marketplace also showcases the success of the Dubai Cultural Grant programme, which annually provides grants to ten emerging Emirati businesses. This initiative continues to nurture innovation and sustainability across the city’s creative industries.

Now in its evolved form, Dubai Design Week stands as a comprehensive platform for the design sector—bridging mentorship, development, and commercial exposure. The event not only highlights artistic excellence but also strengthens Dubai’s commitment to fostering creativity as an engine of economic and cultural growth.