What to see and do in the Dubai Design District

We discover one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the city, that features avant-garde design, trendy shopping and art concepts in a stylish atmosphere

You are planning your trip to Dubai, and your research on the Emirate’s most iconic and unmissable places has just begun. Well, it won’t take long before you come across Design District as one of the city’s emblematic symbols!

Situated beside Dubai Creek, behind the Burj Khalifa, and close to Mohammed bin Rashid City, d3 is truly a must-see destination. Conceived to solidify Dubai’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Design, the district provides a platform for the emirate’s creative professionals, designers, and artists to come together and inspire. Its name reflects not only its focus on design but also the three phases in which it has been projected and realised.

Building 8

But what makes d3 so attractive? It might surprise you that the answer does not lie in its sleek, contemporary buildings or the luxurious design boutiques that line its streets. What is truly captivating is its essence. Unfolding along the waterfront, d3’s character is a blend of chic, eclectic, and avant-garde elements. It is exactly this unique mix that draws visitors from all walks of life.By being a melting pot for design, art, and fashion from all over the world, d3 represents Dubai’s vibrant artistic scene. Showrooms and galleries intersperse its streets, framing every corner with elegance and flair.

Buildings 7 and 8, considered the district’s heart, perfectly reflect the area’s artistic and innovative spirit. These two buildings host some of the most renowned design brands and art boutiques. While leisurely strolling through the vibrant district, you will encounter an eclectic mix of art installations and eateries, each reflecting the rich tapestry of the community. You might also unexpectedly run into a few sheep! One of d3’s most striking art installations, Chic Sheep, is part of the Design for Good project, which connects the design community through creative collaborations that support and promote social change within the United Arab Emirates.

One of the most vibrant art installations that XoXne would come across at d3 is Chic Sheep

This artistic initiative scattered one hundred sheep sculptures around the district as a symbol of new beginnings and a bright future. After exploring the area, you might wish to relax in a setting beyond the concrete jungle. That’s why The Block, the country’s first urban beach park, was conceived in d3.

This beautifully designed space is ideal for unwinding while observing the hustle and bustle of the city and its skyline, or staying active with its skate park, basketball courts, and cycling areas. But the true spirit of d3 shines during a specific time of the year: Design Week. This event is not just a rendezvous for industry insiders but an inclusive experience that celebrates design in all its forms - architecture, fashion, technology, and art- transforming d3 into a bustling hub of inspiration. During this week, the energy in the district attracts both locals and tourists eager to experience the latest in design.

Yet, it is not all about art and design here. The culinary scene in Design District is certainly worth exploring! Concept stores offering various coffee roasts and Arab sweets, accompanied by a variety of teas, fusion cuisine, and Italian dishes, fill the area with their enticing designs and captivating aromas. In d3, where ‘the obvious’ has no place, the famous restaurant Akiba Dori embodies originality and creativity, perfectly aligning with the district’s ethos.

This emphasis on uniqueness enhances the overall dining experience. Indulge in its exquisite Japanese cuisine and Tokyo-style Neapolitan pizza - you won’t regret it. Italian cuisine is also a highlight in d3, adding a touch of authentic flavor. Vicolo, serving a taste of Italian street food in the UAE, is an ode to secret, ancient street recipes and is definitely a must-try. For a café that combines a relaxed atmosphere with hearty food and irresistible desserts, One Life Kitchen and Café is the place to visit. No matter what you choose from its menu full of options, dessert here is non-negotiable.

To fully immerse yourself in d3 on a typical day, Joe & The Juice is the go-to spot. As expected, you can find a variety of juices - fourteen options, all made with high-quality and sustainably sourced ingredients. Coffee lovers will also appreciate the premium blends and beans sourced from Uganda and Guatemala. From its architecture to its culinary offerings, the multifaceted nature of Design District blends art and fashion in an ever-evolving space.

The Block is the country’s fifirst urban beach park

But regardless of the suggestions provided, to truly capture its atmosphere, take a stroll on a winter evening and enjoy the scene: cafes bustling with patrons, Emiratis in their Khandura conversing, drinking tea, or smoking shisha. You will soon notice that d3 offers a refreshing alternative to the typical expat nightlife. This neighborhood, quiet yet vibrant, provides a full immersion in the local culture. Welcome to Dubai Design District.