International brands, collectible pieces, local talent: from May 20 to 23, Downtown Design Riyadh celebrates innovation, culture, and contemporary perspectives
Downtown Design, historically based in Dubai, arrives for the first time in Riyadh with an edition that marks the debut of Saudi Arabia’s first fair dedicated to high-quality contemporary design. Taking place from May 20 to 23, 2025, at the JAX District, the event is organized in collaboration with the Architecture and Design Commission of the Saudi Ministry of Culture.
As the leading platform for contemporary design in the Middle East, Downtown Design brings its established curatorial vision, global network, and regional expertise to Riyadh, offering new access to the country’s fast-growing design market, in line with national development goals and the increasing demand for high-end interiors.
The fair brings together a curated selection of international brands, regional studios, and emerging talent, reflecting the Kingdom’s rising status on the global design map. Alongside the main exhibition, a rich collateral program of creative installations, pop-up events, activations, and talks enhances the visitor experience, tailored to the local context.
Among the highlights: Huda Lighting presents ten leading brands in architectural and decorative lighting, including Articolo, Brokis, and Tom Dixon. The Bowery Company showcases Scandinavian furniture brands such as Audo Copenhagen, GUBI, and &Tradition. Scarlet Splendour makes its regional debut with a bold collection, featuring solid brass pieces by Richard Hutten. Kuwaiti studio Babnimnim designs an architectural installation for Cosentino, blending heritage and innovation. Jotun offers an immersive color experience in collaboration with local designers. Maison Louis Drucker unveils a digital collaboration with TRAME and Aranda\Lasch, merging algorithmic design with traditional craftsmanship.
A special section is dedicated to collectible and limited-edition design, with works presented by international galleries and independent designers. Among them, Gallery COLLECTIONAL features pieces by Christophe Delcourt, Apparatus Studio, and Draga & Aurel, along with hand-blown glassworks by Venini in collaboration with Michele De Lucchi and Peter Marino. Italian excellence also shines through with Visionnaire’s fine craftsmanship and functional furniture by Serafini.