A New Era for Emerging Talent in the MENA Region
On September 24, 2025, Dubai Design District (d3) announced an exciting opportunity for emerging designers and architects in the MENA region. As part of its Beyond a Decade of Design celebrations, d3 has launched the inaugural d3 Awards, aimed at recognizing and championing new talent within the vibrant and diverse design landscape of the Middle East. This initiative not only highlights the importance of innovation but also encourages fresh perspectives that can reshape our built environment.
The d3 Awards will celebrate excellence in several aspects of design, including material exploration, human-centred approaches, and forward-thinking solutions. Entrants are invited to submit proposals focused on architecture, covering both interior and exterior spaces as well as immersive environments. The stakes are high, as the winner will receive a financial prize of AED 100,000, marking a significant milestone in their design career.
Joining the Global Design Dialogue
Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of d3, emphasizes the importance of such initiatives in fostering a creative ecosystem. “The d3 Awards mark a significant step forward in our journey of championing emerging talent,” she stated. This award serves as a platform to elevate the region's brightest minds and aligns with Dubai's Creative Economy Strategy and Design Sector Strategy 2033. By encouraging creative thinkers to reimagine the world through their design expertise, d3 reinforces its position as a global hub for design excellence.
Participants in the d3 Awards must be either graduating design students in their final year or designers with up to five years of professional experience. Applicants should be residents or citizens of the MENA region, and submissions are welcome from individuals, duos, or collectives of up to four members. This inclusivity ensures that a wide range of voices and ideas will be represented, enriching the creative dialogue within the region. The deadline for conceptual entries is set for October 17, 2025, making it essential for aspiring designers to prepare their submissions thoughtfully.
As part of Dubai Design Week, which takes place from November 4-9, 2025, shortlisted candidates will showcase their proposals at the d3 Architecture Exhibition. This event promises to attract architects, designers, and creative practitioners from around the globe, fostering an environment of collaboration and inspiration. Thus, the d3 Awards not only provide a platform for emerging talent but also contribute to a larger narrative of innovation and excellence in the design industry. For more information and to apply, interested individuals can visit [www.d3awards.com](http://www.d3awards.com).
The d3 Awards represent a pivotal moment for the design community in the MENA region. By celebrating originality and practical design solutions, this initiative opens doors for future innovators and reinforces Dubai's status as a beacon of design creativity.
