Top Talks & Design Panels at Index Dubai 2025

Thu 15 May 2025

The Index Dubai 2025 exhibition, taking place from 27–29 May, is the most important event for contract furniture and design in the Middle East. With a multitude of talks, workshops, and presentations, Index brings together experts shaping the future of the industry.

Among the top speakers featured this year:

Rabah Saeid, Founder & Creative Director, Styled Habitat. A visionary in the design world, Rabah is a member of the American Society of Interior Designers and is recognized for her influence in the field.

Topic: Panel: Rooted in Identity: Celebrating Regional Highlights in Design
Date & Time: May 27, Tuesday 12:40 PM - 01:25 PM (45 MINS)
Summary: Design is a powerful expression of cultural identity, and regional influences play a pivotal role in shaping the narrative of spaces. This panel will explore how designers and architects integrate local traditions, materials, and aesthetics into modern projects to create spaces that resonate deeply with their surroundings. Panelists will discuss the balance between honoring heritage and embracing innovation, highlighting projects that exemplify the fusion of cultural authenticity with contemporary design.
Marco Maximus, Senior Interior Designer, KEANE. Marco is acclaimed for designing the INDEX Design Talks stage, offering a new dimension to the attendee experience.

Topic: Panel: Attracting Bigger, Better, and Different Projects: Building a powerful brand
Date & Time: May 27, Tuesday 01:30 PM - 02:15 PM (45 MINS)
Summary: Securing bold, high-profile projects is not just about talent, it is about how designers and firms position their brand, tell their story, and showcase their vision. This panel brings together visionary designers and architects who have successfully won unconventional, boundary-pushing projects by crafting compelling brand identities and embracing fearless creativity. Panelists will share firsthand experiences on how they leveraged branding, storytelling, and strategic positioning to attract ambitious clients, land breakthrough opportunities, and bring their boldest ideas to life.
Paul Bishop, Founder, Bishop Design LLC. With a career spanning over 20 years, Paul has built a global reputation for pushing creative boundaries in hospitality design.
Topic: Fireside chat: Beyond the Plate: Designing Bars and Restaurants That Tell a Story
Date & Time: May 27, Tuesday 02:45 PM - 03:15 PM (30 MINS)
Summary: In this engaging conversation, three leading hospitality design experts will explore what it takes to craft unforgettable luxury spaces in bars and restaurants. From designing immersive atmospheres that delight the senses to balancing elegance with comfort and functionality, this chat will uncover the secrets behind creating extraordinary dining and social experiences. Discover how attention to detail, storytelling, and cultural influences transform bars and restaurants into iconic destinations, setting a new standard for modern hospitality.
Jonathan Ashmore, Founding Principal, ANARCHITECT. An internationally recognized architect and design critic, Jonathan leads the award-winning practice ANARCHITECT, known for its refined, modern approach to architecture.

RIBA panel - Holistic Sustainability: Architecture’s Path to a Greener Tomorrow
Date & Time: May 27, Tuesday | 03:20 PM - 04:05 PM (45 MINS)
Summary: Sustainability in architecture extends beyond materials to include energy efficiency, resource management, and community impact. This panel will explore how architects are integrating renewable materials, passive design strategies, energy-efficient systems, and regenerative principles into their projects. Panelists will share insights on overcoming challenges, achieving balance between design and sustainability, and creating long-lasting, eco-conscious structures that benefit both people and the planet.
Christine Espinosa-Erlanda, Associate Director, Godwin Austen Johnson. With over 20 years of experience in the Middle East and Asia, Christine has left a significant mark on architecture through her visionary work in master planning, hospitality, retail, education, and heritage design.

RIBA Panel: Her Vision: Women Architects Leading the Future
Date & Time: May 28, Wednesday | 01:35 PM - 02:20 PM (45 MINS)
Summary: Women architects are at the forefront of reshaping the industry, not only by creating innovative designs but also by breaking barriers in leadership and equity. This panel celebrates the achievements of women who are driving change in a traditionally male-dominated field. Panelists will share their personal journeys, highlight their contributions to community-driven projects, and discuss strategies for overcoming gender biases. The discussion will also focus on fostering inclusivity, empowering diverse talent, and inspiring the next generation of female architects to take the lead in designing a better future.
Mariska Stoffel, Principal Architect, Killa Design. Mariska is known for her role in designing landmark projects and her innovative architectural approach.

Topic: RIBA Panel: Her Vision: Women Architects Leading the Future
Date & Time: May 28, Wednesday 01:35 PM - 02:20 PM (45 MINS)
Summary: Women architects are at the forefront of reshaping the industry, not only by creating innovative designs but also by breaking barriers in leadership and equity. This panel celebrates the achievements of women who are driving change in a traditionally male-dominated field. Panelists will share their personal journeys, highlight their contributions to community-driven projects, and discuss strategies for overcoming gender biases. The discussion will also focus on fostering inclusivity, empowering diverse talent, and inspiring the next generation of female architects to take the lead in designing a better future.
Monica Arrango, Founder, C'est Ici Design. Monica has established herself in the design world with her studio C'est Ici, founded in 2017, offering unique and innovative solutions.

Topic: Panel: Rebuilding, Reinventing, Returning – Breaking Back Into the Design & Architecture Industry
Date & Time: May 28, Wednesday 02:50 PM - 03:30 PM (40 MINS)
Summary: Whether you're a designer returning from a career break, a mom reentering the workforce, or a newcomer navigating Dubai’s dynamic industry, this panel is all about making a powerful comeback. Industry leaders, recruiters, and professionals who have successfully transitioned back into the field will share their experiences and strategies. Learn how to reposition yourself, attract the right opportunities, and build a strong professional network in today’s fast-evolving design landscape. Panelists will discuss shifting career paths, upskilling, the value of diverse experience, and how firms are embracing unconventional career journeys.
Esther Echeverria, Founder, L&C Recruitment. Esther joins the panel “Return to Work Mums in the A&D Industry” sharing valuable insight and experience.

Topic: Panel: Rebuilding, Reinventing, Returning – Breaking Back Into the Design & Architecture Industry
Date & Time: May 28, Wednesday 02:50 PM - 03:30 PM (40 MINS)
Summary: Whether you're a designer returning from a career break, a mom reentering the workforce, or a newcomer navigating Dubai’s dynamic industry, this panel is all about making a powerful comeback. Industry leaders, recruiters, and professionals who have successfully transitioned back into the field will share their experiences and strategies. Learn how to reposition yourself, attract the right opportunities, and build a strong professional network in today’s fast-evolving design landscape. Panelists will discuss shifting career paths, upskilling, the value of diverse experience, and how firms are embracing unconventional career journeys.
Andy Shaw, Chair, RIBA Gulf Chapter. As Chair of the RIBA Gulf Chapter, Andy has fostered the regional design community and led events focused on sustainability and innovation.

Topic: Demonstration: AI in Action: How Top Designers Use AI
Date & Time: May 29, Thursday 04:40 PM - 05:25 PM (45 MINS)
Summary: Join us for a demonstration of cutting-edge AI tools and discover how leading designers seamlessly integrate artificial intelligence into their creative workflows. This session reveals how AI can enhance design quality while preserving the critical human expertise that makes great design. We will explore the dynamic synergy between designer intuition and computational intelligence, showing how AI amplifies creativity, accelerates specific tasks, and supports critical thinking—without replacing the artistry and judgment at the heart of the profession. Through real-world examples, we’ll highlight key moments in the creative process where AI-driven efficiencies unlock new possibilities for creativity and productivity, while underscoring the irreplaceable role of human vision, experience, and decision-making in shaping the built environment.

Exhibition Details

Location: Dubai World Trade Centre
Dates: 27–29 May 2025
Electra Equipment Stand: No. 4E199
Co-located events: The Hotel Show, WORKSPACE

We Look Forward to Seeing You

Electra Equipment, as a dynamic and innovative player in contract furniture, will be present to share the latest developments, with a focus on quality and a Greek signature.

Contact Us:

Phone: 00306976437254

E-mail: sales1@electra.com.gr

Stay tuned for more updates and exclusive content from our presence at Index Dubai 2025.