The eleventh edition of Prada Mode is currently underway in Abu Dhabi.
Held from 11th-14th of February at MiZa in the Mina Zayed district, the event marks Prada’s third collaboration with renowned multidisciplinary artist Theaster Gates.
Prada Mode, an exclusive travelling social club, once again brought together art, music, food, and live performances, offering an immersive cultural experience. This year’s iteration in Abu Dhabi explored the juxtaposition of minimalism and craftsmanship against the backdrop of an increasingly digitised world.
At the heart of Prada Mode Abu Dhabi was an architectural installation designed to create two distinct sensory experiences. A cylindrical structure, placed within a square format, divided the space into two contrasting atmospheres. Inside the cylinder, guests were immersed in a meditative setting, featuring acoustic performances designed for introspection and dialogue. Outside, a vibrant environment came alive with DJ sets and live acts. The music programme was curated by Theaster Gates in collaboration with NTS, a globally recognised platform for creative radio and music projects founded by Femi Adeyemi.
Cultural programming for the event was overseen by Myrna Ayad and spotlighted local and regional talents, with a strong emphasis on celebrating the creativity and contributions of Arab women. “This space was a reflection on the spiritual possibilities of quietude, the power of gathering, and the reverence for Arab women,” Gates remarked. “In a world increasingly driven by artificial intelligence, this project paid tribute to human artistry, craft, and historical narratives.”
Prada Mode Abu Dhabi also featured an exclusive culinary experience curated by chef Salam Daqqaq, showcasing the diverse diasporic influences that shape Abu Dhabi’s food scene.
For the first two days, Prada Mode Abu Dhabi functioned as an invite-only private members’ club before opening to the public on 13–14 February. Complimentary admission was available on a first-come, first-served basis, drawing an enthusiastic crowd eager to experience the event’s unique blend of artistic and cultural programming.
The event took place in MiZa, a revitalised cultural hub within Mina Zayed, originally established in the 1970s. Now reimagined as a centre for Abu Dhabi’s creative industries, MiZa blends historic architecture with contemporary innovation, making it a fitting location for Prada’s latest cultural exploration.
Prada Mode has previously been hosted in major cultural capitals such as Miami, London, Paris, and Tokyo, featuring works from a distinguished roster of artists, including Damien Hirst, Martine Syms, and Jia Zhang-Ke. With its latest edition in Abu Dhabi, Prada once again reinforced its commitment to fostering global creative dialogue and artistic excellence.
