What's Happening?
Amman Design Week is set to return from October 2-17, 2026, after its last edition in 2019. This fourth iteration of the event, founded by Her Majesty Queen Rania Al Abdullah in 2016, will feature over 220 designers and participants. The event will encompass
exhibitions, installations, public-space projects, talks, workshops, and performances across various locations in Jordan, including Ras El Ain, Jabal Al Lweibdeh, Jabal Amman, Iraq Al Amir, and for the first time, Aqaba. The central theme for 2026 is 'Accumulations,' which aims to explore how materials, memories, knowledge, labor, and everyday practices gather over time and become integral to the places people inhabit. This theme also establishes a clear connection between the design week and the city of Amman itself. The exhibitions, curated by Faysal Tabbarah, will focus on the interplay between daily practices, material environments, and cultural memories, with each project accompanied by a 'trace' such as an artifact, archival document, or oral history. The event will also introduce a new leadership structure under co-directors Sarah Hejazin and Bisher Tabbaa, co-founders of the Jordanian architecture and design studio FADAA.
Why It's Important?
The return of Amman Design Week signifies a significant cultural and economic boost for Jordan, particularly in the creative and design sectors. By expanding its reach to Aqaba and incorporating a diverse range of activities, the event is poised to attract both local and international attention, fostering collaboration and innovation within the design community. The 'Accumulations' theme encourages a deeper understanding of Jordan's architectural and cultural heritage, promoting sustainable design practices and the preservation of local craftsmanship. The involvement of over 220 designers and participants will stimulate economic activity through increased tourism, local business engagement, and the potential for new design commissions. Furthermore, the new leadership structure, with architects Sarah Hejazin and Bisher Tabbaa at the helm, indicates a strategic direction that emphasizes the integration of architecture with public space, education, and cultural programming, potentially leading to long-term urban development and community engagement initiatives. This event serves as a platform for showcasing Jordanian talent and fostering a vibrant design ecosystem.
What's Next?
Following the announcement, preparations for Amman Design Week 2026 will intensify, with curators and organizers working to finalize the extensive program of exhibitions, installations, and public events. The new leadership team will likely focus on implementing their vision for integrating design with public spaces and educational initiatives. Stakeholders, including local businesses, educational institutions, and government bodies, will continue to collaborate to ensure the successful execution of the event. The expansion to Aqaba suggests future opportunities for regional development and cultural exchange within Jordan. The event's focus on 'Accumulations' will likely lead to ongoing discussions and projects exploring the intersection of design, memory, and urban development. The outcomes of the 2026 edition will inform future iterations of Amman Design Week, potentially solidifying its role as a prominent design event in the Middle East and North Africa region.
Beyond the Headlines
Amman Design Week's 'Accumulations' theme delves into the profound relationship between design and the passage of time, highlighting how human activities and natural processes shape our built environment. This approach encourages a critical examination of consumption, heritage, and the evolution of urban landscapes. By showcasing projects that incorporate local materials and traditional practices, the event promotes a sense of cultural identity and sustainability, challenging the often-homogenizing effects of globalization in design. The emphasis on public space and community engagement also underscores the social responsibility of design, transforming urban areas into interactive and meaningful environments. This initiative could inspire similar movements in other developing regions, fostering a design ethos that is deeply rooted in local context and history, while also addressing contemporary challenges. The event's ability to bring together diverse perspectives on design, from architecture to material research, suggests a holistic approach to understanding and shaping the future of urban living.
