“W100 Arabia is part of a journey that began with my personal explorations of this magnificent territory back in 2009. These are regions of authentic charm, unique vibrations, sometimes impossible gambles, and creativity that takes shape day after day,” writes Paolo Bleve in the editorial of the latest edition of the Book, unveiled in Dubai recently. This powerful quote from IFDM’s publisher perfectly captures the essence of .Wonder 100 Arabia, a volume meticulously curated by the IFDM editorial team alongside Paola Carimati and Rue Kothari. The publication champions the region’s creative talent, featuring profiles of architects, interior designers, developers, and project managers who are actively transforming the urban and social fabric of the Middle East.
Our definition of ‘the region’ extends beyond the Arabian Peninsula, encompassing countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, and Yemen. Our comprehensive analysis also includes the broader area surrounding the Persian Gulf, such as Lebanon, Jordan, and Egypt, all of which share significant cultural ties and influences.
Gala Dinner, W100 Arabia 2025
Wonder Book W100 Arabia 2025
This inclusive approach is fundamental, as our project selection also recognizes the contributions of professionals who, despite not having Arab origins, have chosen this territory as their home and the foundation for their creative practice. Their work enriches the design panorama with diverse perspectives, yet remains deeply rooted in the local context.
The culmination of this effort is .Wonder Book W100 Arabia, an edition that celebrates excellence in design and architecture. It features 100 carefully selected studio profiles, chosen based on precise mapping criteria, including the requirement of having an operational base within these regions.
Gala Dinner, W100 Arabia 2025
Furthermore, .Wonder Book W100 Arabia also highlights five projects deemed editorially iconic within their respective categories: residential, hospitality, retail, architecture, and yachting, each reflecting the latest design trends. The publication is readily available in both digital and print formats on the official IFDM website and can be purchased directly online as part of the prestigious Wonder Book collection. The volume’s launch event, a spectacular gala dinner in signature Wonder style, was hosted in the Dubai Design District in collaboration with Dubai Design Week, held the day before Downtown Design opened its doors. It proved to be a truly memorable occasion, celebrating the creativity and high-end design quality prevalent in the Gulf.
W100 Arabia Award 2025 by Venini, design Simone Bonanni
The event brought together some of the featured studios, key players from the real estate sector, and leading brands in luxury furnishings and finishes. During the evening, five prominent design brands presented special recognition awards to the architectural studios behind the five iconic featured projects. Each award was a stunning glass trophy produced by the esteemed Italian manufacturer Venini, with a concept designed by Italian designer Simone Bonanni, symbolizing craftsmanship, value, and authentic design.
The Lime Tree Valley Villa, designed by GroundedDesign, received the award in the Residential category from Massimiliano Ferrari of Elie Saab Maison. This recognition was bestowed for its embodiment of harmonious living, seamless integration with nature, and a balanced, timeless design approach.
Massimiliano Ferrari, Bani Singh, Joanna Singh & Paolo Bleve
Cristian Massicot & Hussein Alshaali, Gulf Craft
In the Yachting category, the Majesty 100 Terrace project was celebrated as an icon of nautical design and engineering, pioneering innovation within the industry, particularly in the dynamic Emirati region. The award was presented by Cristian Massicot of Iris Ceramica Group.
The Dar Tantora The House Hotel, designed by Shahira Fahmy Architects, received an award from Cristian Brugnoli of Technogym in the Hotel category, for its profound dialogue with the territory and deep historical roots.
Shahira Fahmy & Cristian Brugnoli
Kathryn Athreya & Pasuale Junor Natuzzi
Pasquale Junior Natuzzi of Natuzzi Italia presented the award in the Office&Retail category to Kathryn Athreya of studio Roar for Ajman Ruler’s Court. This collaborative masterpiece by Roar and local artists was lauded for its exceptional architectural and interior design, particularly for the profound cultural references woven into its very fabric.
Finally, in the Architecture category, the Ghaf Woods Experience Centre, designed by Chinese architects aoe and developed by local STUDIOI, was honored for its pioneering approach to well-being and sustainability.
David Nannini & Sindya Sundar of STUDIOI
The award was presented by David Nannini of Venini. The event once again underscored Dubai’s pivotal role as a global hub for design and architecture, celebrating the vision and innovation that are actively shaping the future of the Middle East.
