DUBAI: The Italian Trade Agency (ITA) has announced the Italian pavilion at Downtown Design 2024, taking place from November 6 to 9 at Dubai Design District (D3). Under the theme “Dubai Meets Italian Design,” the pavilion will spotlight high-end furniture and home accessories from 25 renowned Italian designers, along with collections from iconic brands in this year’s showcase.

A key event on November 7 will feature a panel of industry experts discussing the future of design, focusing on how to keep ahead of trends while honouring Italy’s values of quality, heritage, and identity. The discussion aims to shed light on Italy’s approach to evolving yet preserving its cultural authenticity in a dynamic market.

Italy has seen impressive growth in its furniture exports to the UAE, hitting €200.39 million (around $210 million) in 2023, a 21% increase year-on-year. This upswing brought Italian exports to nearly €300 million last year, capturing a significant 9% market share. Italy now holds a 10% share of the UAE’s luxury furniture market, with Italian design recognised for its craftsmanship, innovative approach, and sustainability—a reputation upheld by the “Made in Italy” brand.

In Q1 2024, Italy’s exports of furniture and lighting to the UAE grew further, reaching €195.49 million ($205 million), while furnishing accessories and home décor exports recorded an 11% increase, totalling €11.13 million ($11.7 million).

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Italian Ambassador Lorenzo Fanara remarked on this deepening relationship, stating that Italy’s participation in Downtown Design reflects its commitment to meeting the UAE’s demand for elegant, eco-friendly furniture. Trade Commissioner Valerio Soldani added that Italian design continues to dominate the luxury sector in the UAE, with an edge driven by excellence, innovation, and durability in premium furniture offerings.