Abu Dhabi strengthens its creative economy with the formation of the Design Commission Abu Dhabi (DCAD)
Under the chairwomanship of H.H. Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi proudly announces the formation of the Design Commission Abu Dhabi (DCAD) — a creative, strategic, and cultural platform established to accelerate the emirate’s creative economy, drive innovation, and position Abu Dhabi as a global leader in next-generation sustainable luxury, cultural production, and design-led innovation.
DCAD represents a defining moment in Abu Dhabi’s long-term commitment to embed creativity and design at the heart of economic diversification and global cultural influence. Guided by a future-facing vision, the Commission is building the foundations of a resilient, future-ready creative economy in an increasingly AI-amplified world.
Central to DCAD’s strategy is establishing Abu Dhabi as a producer and owner of globally relevant design intellectual property (IP); pioneering UAE-origin materials and textile innovations; and cultivating a world-class talent pipeline through international residencies, advanced training, and sector-aligned capacity building. These efforts are further strengthened through high-impact cultural showcases and strategic global collaborations that elevate Abu Dhabi’s creative influence on the world stage.
Anchored in the emirate’s broader economic and cultural vision, DCAD will cultivate a dynamic design ecosystem that celebrates Emirati creativity, strengthens economic resilience, and reinforces cultural identity. The Commission acts as a catalyst for new industries, generating long-term employment opportunities across design, craftsmanship, and material innovation — while reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position at the forefront of global creative leadership.
The formation of DCAD contributes to Abu Dhabi’s ambition to integrate design, innovation, and emerging technologies into the next 30 years of development. By aligning creative industries with economic policy, education, and industry, the Commission aims to equip the next generation with the tools, platforms, and global networks needed to lead in an evolving creative economy.
Chaired by H.H. Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the Board of DCAD is composed of Nadine Maalouf, Executive Vice Chairwoman, and Rana Kuzayli El Khoury, Undersecretary. The Board is supported by an esteemed Advisory Committee comprising of Asma Al Fahim, Rym Al Falasy, Rima Al Mokarrab, and Meera Al Suwaidi.
Through its programmes and initiatives, DCAD will create new pathways for emerging talent by connecting designers to global networks, enabling cross-sector collaboration, and embedding sustainability, technology, and innovation at the core of design practice.
