Dubai: A new district will be created in Dubai solely to develop the emirate’s fashion, design and luxury sectors.
The Dubai Design District, announced on Saturday by His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, will become a commercial hub for design industry organisations, brands, and supporting enterprises, a WAM report said.
The new district, which will be built adjacent to the Business Bay area, will feature a custom-built creative community that will have purpose-built commercial and retail facilities for established and emerging designers, design institutes, waterfront promenade, convention centre and event venues and related academic institutions.
Located a short distance from Dubai’s arterial highways and the two international airports, it is expected to be the most connected fashion district in the world, with Dubai being only 8 hours flight time from 90 per cent of the countries in the world.
The venture, which will be an additional key element in Dubai’s bid to host Expo 2020, seeks to increase the number of local and regional designers who are attaining international distribution and accolades.
“UAE nationals and expatriates alike are showing a keen interest not just in consuming fashion, design, and luxury goods and services, but also in the development of their own design and creative skills,” according to a statement issued by the Government of Dubai Media Office.
“One indication of this emerging trend is evidenced by rapid growth in enrolment rates on fashion and design courses at institutions in the UAE. The talents of the UAE’s home-grown designers, from those who have already made their mark on the international stage to the stars of tomorrow, will be the vital spark driving this community.”