A new space for designers, makers, and creatives.
The Diriyah Biennale Foundation has officially announced the launch of the first edition of the MADE Design Forum, a four-day event set to take place from May 1 to May 4, 2025. The design forum will be held at the Cultural Program Building at the Islamic Arts Biennale site, located in the Western Hajj Terminal at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah.
What is the MADE Design Forum?
The MADE Design Forum is more than just an event, it’s a new platform for design, craft, and creative dialogue. It will bring together designers, artists, and makers from across the Arab world and beyond, working in areas such as product design, architecture, and traditional crafts.
From carefully crafted ceramics and handwoven textiles to innovative lighting and bio-materials, the design forum will showcase one-of-a-kind creations from both emerging and established talents.
A Market That Connects Visitors to Makers
One of the highlights of the MADE Design Forum is its marketplace, where visitors can interact directly with the creators behind the work. It’s a chance to see, touch, and buy unique design pieces, everything from furniture to handmade objects, while learning more about the ideas and processes that brought them to life.
More Than a Market: Talks, Workshops, and Ideas
While the MADE Design Forum includes a physical market, its scope goes far beyond selling products. A full program of talks, panels, and workshops will explore how materials are used in design, the practical side of making, ethics in production, and how innovation is shaping design today.
Whether you’re a professional, a student, or simply a design enthusiast, the sessions are designed to make you think about how design is made, what it means, and how it fits into everyday life.
A Message From the Organizers
Aya Al Bakri, CEO of the Diriyah Biennale Foundation, described the MADE Design Forum as a place to reflect, discuss, and rethink design:
“The first edition of MADE. is a defining moment for the fast-growing design industry in the region. We’re proud to create a platform that celebrates both heritage and modern creativity, and that brings together talented makers and thinkers shaping the future of design.”
Why You Should Visit
With design playing an increasingly important role in how we live, work, and interact with the world, events like the MADE Design Forum offer a valuable opportunity to discover new perspectives. From learning about sustainable materials to meeting the minds behind cutting-edge ideas, it’s a space for inspiration, conversation, and creativity.
Whether you’re browsing the market, joining a workshop, or sitting in on a panel, the MADE Design Forum offers a fresh look at how design influences our world—and where it’s headed next.
Check the Programs and Book Your Spot
Whether you’re planning to explore the market, attend a talk, or take part in a workshop, the full schedule for the MADE. design forum is available online. You can browse the day-by-day program, explore featured speakers, and book tickets directly through the Biennale’s official website.
Find out more about Biennale
Alongside the MADE Design Forum, the Biennale is also hosting a range of exciting activities and workshops perfect for families and friends. Find out more about all that’s happening here.
