Designing Tomorrow: Insights from the INDEX 2026 Advisory Board
22 Oct. 2025
Earlier this month, leading voices from the design, architecture and interiors industries gathered in Dubai for the INDEX 2026 Advisory Board, a forum dedicated to shaping the creative, commercial and cultural conversations that will define next year’s show.
From real estate developers and hospitality operators to interior designers, manufacturers, and design consultants, the board brought together an influential mix of professionals united by one goal: to imagine what’s next for design in the MENA region. The Advisory Board explored the evolving pillars defining the future of design from how technology is reshaping creative workflows to how sustainability, lifestyle and cultural storytelling are influencing the spaces we live, work and connect in. Discussions spanned material innovation, digital transformation, destination design and next-gen leadership, offering a glimpse into the ideas and priorities shaping the MENA region’s design agenda for 2026 and beyond.
As regional development surges and global design philosophies continue to evolve, the discussions also underscored how INDEX remains the industry’s compass, guiding brands, buyers and creators through the trends, technologies and transformations reshaping the interiors environment.
Themes shaping the INDEX 2026 agenda
Hospitality & Destination Design
Destination-led experiences are reshaping resorts, mixed-use projects and hospitality developments across the region. Design has become the bridge between experience and identity and serves as a tool that defines how visitors connect with a place. As Saudi Arabia and the UAE invest heavily in tourism and destination masterplans, discussions focused on creating spaces that feel authentic to their environment while elevating guest experience and long-term commercial value. The conversation underscored that design is no longer a finishing touch, it’s central to place-making and economic storytelling.
Sustainability & Wellness
Sustainability is evolving from a moral imperative to a measurable design strategy. With GCC countries targeting net-zero goals between 2050 and 2060, advisors discussed how circularity, material innovation and life-cycle assessment are driving new design briefs. The focus has shifted from one-off certifications to regenerative design, prioritising reuse, adaptability and longevity. Designers stressed that true sustainability must be embedded early in the project lifecycle, supported by transparent supply chains and client education.
Technology & Future Innovation
AI-assisted design, digital twins and immersive visualisation tools are transforming the creative process. Advisors agreed that technology should only amplify and not replace human intuition and craftsmanship. The integration of real-time rendering, VR collaboration and parametric modelling is shortening project timelines and enabling more informed decision-making. Key questions raised: how will data reshape design strategy and how can studios maintain creative integrity while embracing automation?
Luxury, Branding & Lifestyle
The definition of luxury is shifting from material excess to emotional depth. “Quiet luxury” characterised by craftsmanship, tactility and timeless aesthetics is gaining traction across residential, retail and hospitality interiors. In a market where consumer expectations evolve faster than trends, personalisation and storytelling are key. The board discussed how regional designers are defining a Middle Eastern modernism where cultural authenticity meets global sensibility, setting the tone for a new design language.
Business & Leadership in Design
As MENA’s design ecosystem matures, nurturing future creative leaders is critical. The board discussed how mentorship, diversity and multi-disciplinary education are shaping tomorrow’s studios. With Gen Z entering the workforce, priorities are shifting towards purpose-driven design and sustainability. Advisors emphasised the need for a platform that equips emerging designers with opportunities to network with the industry leaders.
