- e& MOTB returns with a sleek futuristic Midnight Obsidian theme.
- Over 95 homegrown retail and F&B brands showcase local talent.
- Headline concerts by DYSTINCT and Lvbel C5 are free for all.
- Immersive activations include a journey through a futuristic 2126 Dubai.
The desert breeze is carrying a distinct scent of creativity as the most anticipated open-air retail event in the region prepares for its boldest chapter yet. Opening its gates on January 1st at the iconic Dubai Design District (d3) Waterfront, e& MOTB is stepping into Season 13 with a sharp, monochromatic Midnight Obsidian aesthetic. This year, the festival transitions from a sun-drenched marketplace into a high-tech, obsidian-toned after-dark hub, perfectly capturing the city’s pulse as a global center for youth culture and innovative design.
Modern shoppers are increasingly hunting for authenticity over mass production, and e& MOTB delivers this by acting as a powerful incubator for emerging talent. Nearly 85% of the vendors this year are SMEs under five years old, providing a platform for eco-friendly fashion and homegrown beauty brands that are redefining the local retail landscape. Whether you are exploring “The Glow Bloc” for a bespoke scent at the Kayali fragrance bar or attending a live beauty masterclass, the experience is designed to feel like a high-fashion editorial come to life.
The reimagined festival site features several major architectural and social upgrades:
- V-Shaped Site Layout: A new flowing design ensures seamless movement across various retail and entertainment zones.
- The Glow Bloc: A premium neon-orange zone featuring beauty studios from MAC, NARS, and a Dyson styling lab.
- Immersive Hero Activations: Walk through an upside-down train cabin or a 360-degree video booth at the “100 Years Forward” Emarat station.
- Creative Workshops: Engage in hands-on sessions for everything from lip gloss making to tote bag customization.
The entertainment lineup is equally ambitious, moving beyond background music into a full-scale festival program. On January 2nd, the main stage will host Belgian-Moroccan superstar DYSTINCT, followed by Turkish rap sensation Lvbel C5 on January 10th. These free-to-attend headline concerts, paired with urban dance battles and live DJs, ensure the d3 Waterfront remains the center of energy throughout the ten-day run. It is a social sanctuary where community fitness classes meet elite street food, all under the shadow of Dubai’s futuristic skyline.
This new design era is a clear commitment to bold innovation, offering an aspirational look at what retail can be when it merges with digital artistry and community spirit. Step through the dramatic new tunnel entrance and find yourself in a world where the future of shopping has already arrived.
Take your winter weekends to the next level with a visit to the region’s premier creative incubator. From futuristic styling labs to world-class live music, e& MOTB is the ultimate destination for every trendsetter.
Shop now at mydsf.ae to see the full vendor list and concert schedule today!
