Post by : Badri Ariffin

Abu Dhabi has officially unveiled the Design Commission Abu Dhabi (DCAD) under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan. This initiative seeks to boost the emirate’s creative economy and spearhead design-led innovation.

The establishment of DCAD signifies a pivotal step in Abu Dhabi's aspirational journey to embed creativity, culture, and design at the core of economic diversification initiatives and global cultural outreach. The Commission has been structured to foster innovation in an increasingly AI-centric and future-oriented landscape.

One of DCAD's key goals is to position Abu Dhabi as a significant player in the creation and ownership of design intellectual property (IP). Additionally, the Commission aims to promote UAE-produced materials and textile innovations while cultivating emerging talents through international residencies, specialized training initiatives, and capacity-building programs tailored to industry demands.

DCAD will enhance Abu Dhabi's visibility on the global creative scene by orchestrating impactful cultural events and fostering international partnerships, thereby bolstering the emirate's standing in sustainable luxury and advanced design.

In line with Abu Dhabi’s overarching economic and cultural strategies, the Commission seeks to establish a vibrant and inclusive design ecosystem that celebrates Emirati creativity, stimulates new sectors, and generates sustainable employment within design, craftsmanship, and material innovation.

The creation of DCAD also aligns with Abu Dhabi’s vision for the next three decades, which prioritizes the integration of design and innovative technologies into comprehensive development strategies, ensuring a synergy between creative industries, economic policy, education, and industry stakeholders.

The DCAD Board, chaired by Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, includes Nadine Maalouf as Executive Vice Chairwoman and Rana Kuzayli El Khoury as Undersecretary. The Board is further strengthened by an Advisory Committee consisting of Asma Al Fahim, Rym Al Falasy, Rima Al Mokarrab, and Meera Al Suwaidi.

Through its initiatives, DCAD aspires to foster new avenues for emerging talent, encourage cross-sector collaboration, and integrate sustainability, technology, and innovation into design practices—positioning Abu Dhabi as a leader in the global creative arena.

#Global News