#United Arab Emirates #Dubai #Dubai Design District #d3 Awards #Ohireme Uanzekin

A New Era of Design at the d3 Awards

Dubai Design District (d3) has marked a significant milestone by hosting its first-ever d3 Awards, celebrating emerging architectural talent from the MENA region. The award ceremony, held at the d3 Architecture Exhibition on November 4, 2025, coincided with Dubai Design Week 2025, where the creativity and innovation of designers were in full display. The prestigious award was presented to Ohireme Uanzekin, a Dubai-based Nigerian architectural designer, for his exceptional submission titled 'Abora – The Urban Earthscape'.

Uanzekin's design envisions a seamless integration of human living spaces within natural landscapes, fostering an inclusive community that intertwines architecture with the earth itself. This concept emphasizes the significance of community-centric design, reflecting d3's mission to promote innovative spatial solutions that resonate with environmental respect and cultural relevance.

Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, Uanzekin recently graduated with a BA (Hons) in Architecture from Heriot-Watt University, which is situated in Dubai Knowledge Park. His journey in design has already earned him accolades internationally, including exhibitions at Dubai Design Week and participation in the RIBA Future Architects Showcase. His collaboration with Tariq Khayyat Design Partners, a notable local architectural firm, further solidifies his growing influence in the field.

The award Uanzekin received, designed by Fahed+Architects, reflects the stunning landscapes of the Emirates, showcasing intricate dunes and rugged mountains that symbolize Emirati heritage. Alongside being honored with the trophy, Uanzekin received a monetary prize of AED 100,000 and invaluable mentorship opportunities aimed at nurturing the next wave of design leaders.

Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President at d3, expressed enthusiasm over the inaugural event, noting, "The d3 Awards inaugural edition has been an extraordinary success with a diverse mix of entries from exciting emerging talents. It highlights the vast architectural capability within our region and reinforces our commitment to fostering creative ecosystems."

The d3 Awards initiative seeks to shine a spotlight on the MENA region's vibrant design landscape, encouraging emerging designers, particularly graduating students and those early in their careers, to explore innovative solutions to community-driven design challenges. The competition received over 85 submissions, highlighting the diversity and creativity present in the architectural community today.

Among the shortlist were four additional submissions worth noting:

• - Muskan Rochlani's 'The Cocoon,' a maternity center inspired by South Senegalese heritage.
• - Prerna Revankar & Sanjana Chavadi's revitalization of Dhayah Fort, transforming it into a narrative space that bridges past and present.
• - Yousif Al-Waeli's environmentally-conscious development proposal for Iraq’s UNESCO recognized marshlands.
• - Jamal Hamsho's 'Floating Community,' which addresses the effects of rising sea levels in the Pacific.

These visionary projects, alongside Uanzekin's, showcased at the d3 Architecture Exhibition in Building 6, provide insights into the future of architectural innovation and community integration.

The d3 Awards were judged by a distinguished panel of industry experts, evaluating entries based on their sustainability, innovative use of materials, and how well they address accessibility and inclusivity while being mindful of environmental impact.

As Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a global creative hub, the d3 Awards will return annually to celebrate various design disciplines, reinforcing its dedication to creativity and collaboration in the region. The initiative promises to inspire future generations of designers to envision and craft spaces that resonate deeply with community and culture.

For further information about the exciting activities and exhibitions during the Dubai Design Week, please visit Dubai Design Week's official website.