In a city that thrives on reinvention, Prada Mode Abu Dhabi hit pause - choosing to celebrate the raw, the analogue, and the deeply human. Hosted in MiZa, a creative hub in Mina Zayed, the two-day cultural takeover (Feb 11–12) marked the luxury House’s third collaboration with Theaster Gates. The multidisciplinary artist, known for his work in urban preservation, brought his signature mix of architecture, ritual and sonic storytelling to the event.
At the heart of the space? A circular structure nestled within a square - an architectural yin-yang that split the venue into two distinct sonic and visual worlds. This was a statement on duality, craft, and sacred immediacy in an era obsessed with digital perfection.
Day One: Tradition Gets a Reboot
The launch night unfolded like a fever dream of art, sound and storytelling. A private dinner for Theaster Gates set the tone before the space pulsed into life with conversations, performances and DJ sets.
Panel talks brought together some of the region’s most forward-thinking creatives. Honouring Tradition, Celebrating Modernity saw artists Zara Mahmood and Moza Almatrooshi, along with designer Omar Al Gurg, exploring how they remix cultural symbols into contemporary work. Meanwhile, We Built This City had Gates, visual artist Vikram Divecha, and botanical curator Zain Masud discussing the intersection of art, urban development and identity.
Hands-on craftsmanship was another highlight. Guests immersed themselves in an Al-Sadu weaving workshop led by Awatef Almesmari, a master of this UNESCO-listed Bedouin textile art. The evening closed with live sets by Yas Meen Selectress, Seera, and Nooriyah - spinning a soundtrack that merged the old with the new.
Day Two: The Matriarchs Take Centre Stage
Day two deepened the cultural dialogue. The Power of the Matriarch tackled the role of women as cultural anchors across the Arab world and Asia, featuring powerhouse voices like poet and filmmaker Nujoom Alghanem and curator Reem Fadda. Another conversation, The Grace of Bodily Gestures, brought together artists and performers - including opera singer Fatima Alhashmi and spoken word poet Afra Atiq - to discuss the body as an artistic tool.
Live music remained a throughline, with standout performances from Noura Mint Seymali x Aïta Mon Amour, followed by DJ sets from Nour and Deena Abdelwahed.
Prada Mode, But Make It Abu Dhabi
More than just another art-meets-fashion event, Prada Mode Abu Dhabi was a gathering of minds and makers who are shaping the region’s creative future. As the event opens to the public, it leaves behind a question: In an increasingly digital world, how do we keep human craft, culture, and community at the forefront? Prada Mode doesn’t have the answer - but it’s making sure we ask.
