The d3 ... an aerial view.
Creatives’ choice
d3 aims to become a community for world-class design talent and home to global brands
01 August 2014
DUBAI Design District (d3) has indicated that demand for space within the design hub in the UAE emirate of Dubai has surpassed expectations, with more than 140 companies – 40 per cent of which are from the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region – having been licensed to move to the site.
Located in the heart of the city adjacent to Business Bay, the development aims to become a world-class creative community for the Middle East that promotes and nurtures local and regional designers. In addition, it will be home to some of the world’s leading brands and talent, as well as showcasing Dubai as an international design, fashion and luxury destination that can compete with the more established global centres.
Since its launch in June last year, the design district has received more than 900 expressions of interest, according to project developer Tecom Investments.
“As planned, d3 is attracting major interest from the design community in the region. We undertook extensive research and planning to ensure we create an environment that provides global brands better access to regional talent and the growing GCC markets, as well as offer a platform to promote emerging international talent,” says Dr Amina Al Rustamani, group CEO at Tecom Investments.
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The convention centre at d3 ... a rendition. |
“This strategy, coupled with Tecom’s track record in creating, operating and growing successful, industry-focused free zones in Dubai puts d3 in a strong stead,” she adds.
Managing director of d3 Lindsay Miller says: “Our main ambition is for d3 to act as a catalyst for the region’s design community by creating an environment where local design talent can grow into successful brands. To achieve this ambition, we have created a masterplan that includes shared workspaces, galleries and workshops to expose emerging talent to the full value chain so they may interact, share and engage with key players from the design, fashion, luxury and art worlds.
“Designers from this region are making real strides in strengthening their presence in other markets and as 90 per cent of countries in the world are just eight hours flight time from Dubai, d3 is the perfect place for these discussions and partnerships to take place.”
Phase One of the 15.5-million-sq-ft development, which is worth Dh4 billion ($1.09 billion) includes state-of-the-art offices and workshop spaces and will be ready for tenants in the first quarter of next year. This will be closely followed by the second phase that will focus on the creative community. Phase Three will comprise developing d3’s waterfront area that will include new concepts in dining, retail and entertainment.
The d3 site, located just minutes from Dubai Mall, will boast a 2 km waterfront featuring international and design-led hotels, a pop-up shop area, and an event space. It will comprise different types of property such as residential, commercial, retail and hospitality real estate.
