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Dubai has long been a global capital of ambition, defined by its record-breaking skyline and visionary developments. Today, that ambition is taking on a more refined form – one that values emotional resonance, cultural richness, and design sophistication.
With a GDP surpassing AED 1.14 trillion in 2023, and strong growth in real estate, finance, and tourism, Dubai has become a top destination for ultra-high-net-worth individuals. But these residents are not just investing, they’re settling.
Insights from ARRCC directors, a global interior design studio, offer a clear view into the major trends shaping this next chapter in Dubai’s luxury design evolution.
A Shift Toward Personalised Homes and Resort Destinations
What was once a short-term chapter for many expats is becoming a long-term lifestyle choice. As more people choose to settle here, there’s a growing appetite for interiors that go beyond design trends, where spaces reflect who they are and how they live.
“Dubai is no longer just a destination – it’s where people are putting down roots,” notes Jon Case. “That means designing homes that are deeply personal, layered, and emotionally engaging.”
This trend is equally visible in luxury resort developments, where design is used to create immersive, experience-rich environments that mimic an at-home feeling.
The Rise of Branded Residences and Developer Collaborations
The branded residence model is flourishing in Dubai, driven by strategic developer alliances with global fashion, design, and hospitality names (such as Armani Palaces, Versace, Bulgari Hotels, Porsche Tower, etc.). These collaborations are raising expectations around design, service, and lifestyle integration.
According to Michele Rhoda, “These partnerships create residences that go far beyond finishes. They offer curated experiences, which is exactly what high-net-worth clients are after.”
The Evolution of Demand for Luxury Interiors
Taste in the city is evolving. Interiors that once leaned heavily on visual spectacle are now giving way to a more restrained and eclectic mix of styles. A maturing client base is embracing subtlety, texture, and thoughtful spatial planning over overt ornamentation, prioritising timelessness and international elegance.
Balancing Traditional Dubai Aesthetics with Global Luxury Influences
‘’Dubai’s design scene is becoming increasingly eclectic,’’ says Jon Case. Designing for a market that merges traditional Middle Eastern aesthetics with global luxury influences is project-dependent. For local clients, subtleties related to their culture and religion play a significant role in the design. However, traditional ideas of Dubai are changing, and while the fundamentals will still be present, there is a huge change and evolution in the taste of Dubai — the design landscape has become more worldly due to the influx of people from various countries, resulting in more refined and mature designs.
Emphasis on Artisanal Craftsmanship and Sustainability
Craftsmanship is playing a major role in defining luxury. Carved stone, sculpted timber, hand finished metalwork — these elements bring soul to high-end spaces, helping interiors connect more meaningfully to their cultural and natural context.
The use of locally sourced and handmade materials also supports sustainability, a growing priority
in the Dubai market. “Sourcing ethically and thinking long-term adds integrity to the design,”
says Michele Rhoda. “It’s part of what makes a space truly luxurious today.”
Going hand in hand, Sustainability has become an essential component of luxury in Dubai. “Sustainability isn’t just a checkbox, it’s about honouring the origins of every piece we place into a space. True luxury today lies in authenticity and connection,” adds Mark Rielly.
