As the UAE celebrates Emirati Women’s Day, Khadija Al Bastaki of Dubai Design District (d3) reflects on the powerful intersection of culture, creativity, and community
- What does Emirati Women’s Day mean to you personally?
For me, Emirati Women’s Day is a celebration of strength and resilience. The women of our nation have made extraordinary contributions within our communities not just today and in the recent past, but for the entirety of the country’s existence. The fact that this year’s theme is ‘Hand in Hand, Celebrating the 50th’, marking five decades since the establishment of the General Women’s Union in 1975, is proof of that. Emirati women have been central to the nation’s progress on a social, cultural and economic front and this day is a chance to honour the trailblazers who have come before us, and also those shaping our future today.
This day is a source of inspiration for all Emirati women and allows us to feel proud of our journey, no matter which stage we are in – whether we are students, professionals, mothers, wives or a combination of those.
At Dubai Design District, in particular, I have seen the impact of Emirati women in the creative industries, and Emirati Women’s Day is a reminder of our responsibility to provide them with the opportunities and platforms they deserve.
2. How do you feel the role of Emirati women in the design industry has evolved over the years?
Emirati women are now at the forefront of shaping the UAE’s design identity, from fashion and jewellery to interiors and architecture. They are blending our rich local traditions with global influences to create a distinctive design narrative that resonates regionally and internationally.
Over the years, Emirati women have become more inventive, more ambitious and more spirited. They contribute creatively but are also building successful businesses, mentoring talents and confidently steering the direction of the diverse industries they function in.
3. Dubai Design District has become a creative hub under your leadership. What vision do you have for empowering more Emirati women to enter the design field?
The vision of d3 is to create an ecosystem where Emirati women can thrive at every stage of their creative journey, from mentorship to entrepreneurship and global recognition. This means providing access to world-class infrastructure, fostering collaborations with leading brands and offering platforms like Dubai Design Week and Dubai Fashion Week to showcase their work.
It’s also about nurturing the next generation through institutions like the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) and in5 Design, so that young Emirati women see design as a passion and a viable and rewarding career path.
I’m proud of how far we have come to turn this vision into reality. The Emirati women designers and businesswomen at d3 have made waves through their innovative practices and entrepreneurial spirit. Multidisciplinary designer Aljoud Lootah, for instance, has built a studio that seamlessly blends Emirati artisanal techniques with contemporary design, growing alongside d3 since participating at the inaugural Dubai Design Week in 2015. Other trailblazing creatives include Shafia Alkhyeli, founder of interior design practice Soul Interior Studio; Fatma Al Khoori, owner of the gift-wrapping concept store Maska; and Hanadi Al Hawi, founder of the modest fashion label The Kape.
4. What inspires you most about working in the design sector?
The energy, creativity and diversity of perspectives in the design community are truly motivating. What inspires me most is the power of design to tell stories and shape the way we live. At d3, I’m surrounded by brilliant minds who are pushing boundaries, whether it’s through sustainable architecture, ethical fashion or product design. Every day, I see how design can drive positive change.
5. Could you share some pivotal moment in your career at Dubai Design District?
A defining career milestone for me and my team has been celebrating more than a decade of design excellence at d3 this year. Since its founding, d3 has worked to transform regional design talent into globally recognised impact and I’m proud that we have achieved this and are still expanding and growing, with more to come in years ahead.
Another key moment was the launch of Dubai Fashion Week as the official and definitive fashion week for the city and region. This felt like a milestone moment and an exciting platform to further grow and expand Dubai’s reputation as a global fashion capital. With each edition I enjoy seeing local Emirati talents showcase alongside innovative and leading regional and global names. Dubai Fashion Week Spring Summer 2026 starts on Monday, and I can’t wait for another truly inspiring week.
Finally, the partnership we signed earlier this year with two keystone entities of Milan Design Week – Fuorisalone and Brera Design District – stands out as another highlight. Aligning with such prestigious entities, in such a renowned design city as Milan, felt like a significant moment indeed and we look forward to sharing more on this partnership.
6. How does your Emirati heritage influence your perspective on design and the creative industries?
My Emirati heritage is a constant source of inspiration and guidance. Our culture is rich in storytelling and craftsmanship. There is also a deep respect for tradition, which has ensured our values and practices are kept alive. At the same time, the UAE is a place of openness and global exchange. This duality of honouring our roots while embracing the future shapes my belief that the most compelling design comes from blending years of heritage with future-thinking modernity.
7. How does Dubai Design District support emerging female Emirati designers?
We support emerging talents, which include female Emirati designers, by giving them access to a thriving creative ecosystem. This includes in5 Design, a creative start-up incubator by TECOM Group PJSC, that provides start-ups and freelancers with creative facilities, investor connections and expert guidance.
We also ensure visibility and exposure through flagship events like Dubai Fashion Week, Dubai Design Week, Downtown Design and Sole DXB, which provide platforms for showcasing their work to regional and global audiences. In addition, we collaborate closely with educational institutions like DIDI, the FAD Institute of Luxury Fashion and Style and L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts to equip young women with the skills and confidence to succeed. A key pillar of d3 is collaboration – making connections, building partnerships and working hand in hand.
8. What advice would you give to young Emirati women who aspire to make their mark in the design world?
Stay true to your voice. The design world is based on authenticity, so embrace your heritage, your perspective and your unique story. It’s also important to keep learning and to face challenges with curiosity. The UAE offers incredible opportunities for creatives, so take advantage of the platforms available to you.
