Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture) is set to host the third edition of Makers’ Month from 26–27 April 2025, at Earth Roastery in Al Quoz. The two-day festival will unite designers, manufacturers, and entrepreneurs through a dynamic lineup of workshops, panel discussions, field visits, and expert talks — all designed to nurture collaboration between the creative industries and the manufacturing sector. This initiative highlights Dubai Culture’s ongoing commitment to cultivating a thriving production ecosystem, while bolstering the emirate’s reputation as a global hub for culture, creativity, and talent.
Khulood Khoory, Director of the Projects & Events Department at Dubai Culture, emphasized Makers’ Month’s role in linking creativity with industry. She noted: “Through our projects and strategic partnerships, we support the local manufacturing landscape by creating the right environment. We encourage businesses to explore the Al Quoz Creative Zone’s unique resources, investment opportunities, and proven models. In doing so, we help them add economic value to their products and further strengthen Dubai’s cultural and creative industries.”
Workshops and Talks to Sharpen Creative and Technical Skills
Across two packed days, participants can engage in a variety of interactive workshops and panel discussions curated in collaboration with Make Works UAE and Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children. These sessions will be led by experienced practitioners covering topics such as sustainability, craftsmanship, and entrepreneurial thinking.
Highlights include ‘Product Design and Development in the Day and Age of AI,’ led by Tristan Pirouz alongside Joyce and Girls, offering insights into the impact of artificial intelligence on modern product design. Lamis Alhashimy, Co-Founder of Palmade, will host ‘The Art of Craft & Sustainability,’ highlighting how creative makers are driving economic value within Dubai’s evolving economy.
Knights & Lords’ founders Pawan and Ashish Ishwar will present ‘Crafting Success: The Art and Business of Bespoke Tailoring,’ sharing their entrepreneurial journey from passion to commercial success. Additionally, Alhaan Ahmed, CEO and Co-Founder of ARDH, will explore the intersection of creativity and entrepreneurship in his session, ‘Designers as Entrepreneurs: Crafting Sustainable and Desirable Solutions for the Future.’
Lina Ghalib, founder of PlyPalm, will offer insight into eco-friendly design solutions during her talk, ‘Determining the Future of Everyday Objects,’ while Khulood Khoory will join Maysoon Al Shamsi, Founder of Creams Botanics and 2024 winner of the Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Competition, to discuss available support systems for creative entrepreneurs at the Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Forum.
Panels, Factory Tours, and Material Innovation Showcases
A standout session titled ‘The Art and Business of Ceramics: Craft, Growth, and Community’ will spotlight how ceramic artists blend creativity, commercial viability, and community engagement. Featured speakers include Nessma Djhouri of Lutum Ceramics, Dr Nina Heydemann of Maraya Art Center, and Slō Ceramics founder Zade Ismael.
Beyond discussions, attendees can also take part in hands-on experiences such as recycled paper-making workshops at Tashkeel, as well as clay-building and ceramic painting at Al Jalila Cultural Centre for Children.
The event will also feature ‘The Manufacturing Exchange,’ led by Mansi Bavishi of Make Works UAE, where local manufacturers like InSculp 3D’s Nikhil Krishnan and Mohammad Rasi, alongside Michael Guy of GlassHouse, will highlight breakthroughs in 3D printing, glass-making, and bespoke production. An accompanying exhibition will display innovations in sustainable, recycled, and natural materials.
Adding to the immersive experience, Make Works UAE has organized a guided bus tour to visit three local factories. Participants will witness live demonstrations at a furniture workshop, a multipurpose production facility, and a design-focused printing studio, offering a unique glimpse into Al Quoz’s manufacturing and creative expertise.
Makers’ Month 2025 reinforces Dubai Culture’s mission to bridge creativity with industry, further positioning the Al Quoz Creative Zone as an epicentre for innovation and sustainable growth.