Prada Mode, the Italian fashion house’s traveling social club dedicated to contemporary culture, makes its Abu Dhabi debut this week. Running from Tuesday to Friday, the event takes place in the Miza neighborhood of Mina Zayed. This marks Prada Mode’s second visit to the UAE, following a successful 2022 edition in Dubai’s ICD Brookfield.
While a luxury fashion brand hosting a roving cultural event might seem unexpected, Prada has long been deeply intertwined with the art world. Through Fondazione Prada, its Milan-based cultural institution, the brand has fostered artistic discourse for years. For this 11th global edition of Prada Mode, American multidisciplinary artist Theaster Gates has been invited to design the space, while UAE-based art advisor Myrna Ayad has curated its programming.
This year’s theme explores the role of art and the human experience in an era increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence and technology. Prada Mode Abu Dhabi seeks to celebrate what defines us as human—from our capacity for deep thought and reflection to our innate desire for joy, connection, and communal experiences.
“As we increasingly exist in a world where computer-generated possibilities govern our reality, my concept for Prada Mode Abu Dhabi is a homage to our interiority, the human hand, and our spiritual contributions to the rich cultural histories of this region,” says Gates, who is collaborating with Prada Mode for the third time. “I’m honored to host Prada Mode Abu Dhabi, deepening my relationship with Prada as a cultural institution invested in global dialogue and creative excellence, and celebrating the artistic traditions and futures of Abu Dhabi.”
A Spectacular Setting in the Heart of Abu Dhabi
Each Prada Mode edition is carefully curated to blend with its surroundings, and in Abu Dhabi, the event will unfold in a space that reflects the city’s architectural grandeur and cultural depth. Expect a venue that seamlessly intertwines heritage with contemporary design, offering an ideal backdrop for the artistic and intellectual conversations that will take place.
Art at the Core
Art is the soul of Prada Mode, and in Abu Dhabi, visitors will be treated to curated exhibitions featuring cutting-edge contemporary works. Collaborations with international and regional artists will highlight themes of identity, technology, and the human experience. Expect interactive installations, digital art, and thought-provoking pieces that challenge perceptions and invite dialogue.
Architectural Marvels and Design Inspiration
Abu Dhabi is home to some of the world’s most breathtaking architectural feats, and Prada Mode will embrace this aesthetic through its carefully designed space. Whether hosted within a historic landmark or a modernist masterpiece, the event will showcase how architecture shapes cultural narratives, providing an inspiring environment for attendees.
Music as a Universal Language
No Prada Mode is complete without a curated musical experience. The Abu Dhabi edition will likely feature a mix of electronic soundscapes, live performances, and DJ sets that blend global influences. From ambient compositions that complement the artistic installations to high-energy performances, music will serve as a bridge between cultures and eras.
Engaging Talks and Cultural Conversations
Expect a series of discussions led by artists, designers, architects, and thought leaders. Panels and talks will explore themes such as the future of creativity, the intersection of tradition and modernity, and the role of technology in shaping human expression. These intellectual exchanges will encourage guests to reflect on what truly defines us as human beings.
Beyond art and music, Prada Mode Abu Dhabi also embraces the culinary arts. Chef Salam Dakkak has crafted a menu that reflects the diverse diasporic communities of Abu Dhabi and the UAE, further enhancing the event’s cultural richness.
For the first two days, Prada Mode Abu Dhabi will operate as a private members’ club, offering an exclusive experience. On Thursday and Friday, it will open to the public, inviting a broader audience to explore its dynamic fusion of art, architecture, music, and gastronomy.
By celebrating the intersections of creativity, tradition, and modernity, Prada Mode Abu Dhabi offers a space for deep reflection and vibrant exchange—an homage to the richness of human expression in an ever-evolving world.
