Dubai: The masterplan for the Dubai Design District (d3) — conceived as the future hub of high fashion and designers on a 21 million square feet canvas — is being unveiled at Cityscape Global, which opens Sunday. An 1.8-kilometre waterfront gets prime positioning in the District, while it will also host 2.5 million square feet for retail-related activities. The project was launched last year.
“d3 has evolved to be so much more than just a business district — the majority of those who will be based in d3 are driven by the desire to create,” said Dr Ameenah Al Rustamani, Group CEO of Tecom Investments, the master-developer. “Our creative communities told us that they wanted d3 to be a full lifestyle experience, so d3 will be alive both day and night,”
The first phase, which features the office and retail space, is to be released in the first quarter of next year. At the time, plots will also be made available. (Currently, 11 buildings are under construction.)
“We welcome the opportunity to work with global and regional developers to build the future for Dubai’s design, fashion, art and luxury industries,” said Ameenah.
High-end galleries
The business zone can be a base for more than 10,000 workers, while a dedicated cluster will house more than 4,000 designers, innovators and craftsmen. A vibrant art scene will be crafted into the district through a “fusion of high-end galleries, pop-up showcase and open-air installation spaces, workshops and studios”, according to a statement issued by the developer.
A hospitality component will have upscale and four-star hotels and furnished apartments, together adding up to more than 4,000 keys. In addition, contemporary-themed low-rise apartment buildings will offer easy access to the heart of the District.
For the masterplan blueprint, the developer did tap ideas from the local creative community. “From the very start we have worked with leading global figures as well as local talent to ensure we can provide the right facilities and infrastructure suitable for both international brands and emerging regional designers,” said Ameenah.
