Dubai design industry set to provide global platform

(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) Dubai's thriving design industry is a key asset in the emirate's bid to host Expo 2020, by providing like-minded individuals with a home and community from which they can collaborate, connect and inspire innovative design in preparation to welcome the world to the UAE. Given this focus on innovation, Dubai is well placed to host the Expo as the UAE is the highest ranking Arab nation in the Global Innovation Index, ranking in the top five countries for innovation linkages and intangible assets in the creative output dimension. These acclimations also align directly with the long-term goals of Dubai Design District, or d3. Dubai Expo 2020's theme, "Connecting Minds, Creating the Future", is closely aligned to that of the recently-announced d3, a full-service community for design industry related organisations, brands, and supporting enterprises. In addition to contributing to Dubai's economic diversification and growing knowledge economy, the two projects will positively contribute to Dubai's credentials as a global centre for these sectors. Dr Amina Al Rustamani,Group chief executive officer of Tecom Investments, responsible for creating and delivering the d3, said: "Should Dubai be awarded as the host city of Expo 2020, it would be the first time the event has come to the Menasa [Middle East, North Africa and South Asia] region. Expo 2020 is a significant opportunity for Dubai to share its unique design talent, exchange ideas with sister nations and explore new avenues of collaboration." "As the home of the regional and international design community, the d3 will provide a centre of gravity for international designers and design enthusiasts leading up to Expo 2020 and a platform of support throughout the event itself. Our key objectives as the d3 are to facilitate the on-going growth of the emirate and to facilitate employment across the value chain," she explained. According to Business Monitor International, the UAE's retail market will be worth Dh151 million by 2015. The remarkable growth seen in the sector over the past twelve months was in part due to 12 per cent growth of Dubai's luxury goods market. Tourists account for 40 per cent of global luxury spend so the potential of this market in terms of revenue generation is substantial.