Design Doha, a biennial exhibition organized by Qatar Museums, recently launched its latest publication titled Arab Design Now. Edited by curator Rana Beiruti and published in partnership with Silvana Editoriale, this 360-page book celebrates the central exhibition of the inaugural Design Doha edition. Featuring full-color illustrations, Arab Design Now highlights the excellence and innovation of the design community in Qatar and the MENA region.
The compendium showcases a diverse range of design talent across disciplines such as architecture, contemporary crafts, furniture, fashion, graphic design, and object design. With a foreword by Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa Bint Hamad Bin Khalifa Al Thani and essays by Rana Beiruti and curator Noura Al Sayeh-Holtrop, the publication explores the practices and philosophies that define contemporary design in the region. Over 70 designers are featured in the book, representing the richness and creativity of Arab design.
The design of Arab Design Now is inspired by an interstellar motif, reflecting the cultural significance of stars in Arab tradition. Each designer is depicted as a pivotal point within a network or night sky, creating a constellation of creative viewpoints. Deputy Director of Programming and Partnerships of Design Doha, Fahad Al Obaidly, praised the publication as a long overdue survey of Arab design vibrancy. He believes that Arab Design Now will contribute to advancing dialogues about design in the MENA region and elevate the practices of leading designers globally.
At the book launch event, editor Rana Beiruti presented the publication and conducted a book signing session. Arab Design Now is now available for purchase worldwide in English and Arabic editions. With its comprehensive coverage of local and regional design talent, the book serves as an essential resource for those interested in exploring the creativity and innovation of the Arab design community. As Design Doha prepares for its second edition in 2026, Arab Design Now sets the stage for continued recognition and appreciation of design excellence in the region and beyond.
