The Institut du Monde Arabe Design Prize returns for a 3rd edition

In 2023, the first edition of the Arab World Institute Design Prize was launched, with the aim of highlighting emerging and established designers from the Arab world, giving them the opportunity to demonstrate their know-how, productive genius and creative ability to the public and, above all, to design insiders. This year, after 2 years of experience and with a renowned jury, the prize is back for its 3rd edition, with the promise of bringing not only visibility but also numerous opportunities for growth to its participants. To find out more about the prize, its two co-founders, François Leblanc di Cicilia (design consultant) and Ismail Tazi (founder of design publisher Trame), talked to us about its history, the prerequisites for taking part, its jury, and everything that taking part - and even winning - can offer. 

If you had to describe the Arab World Institute Design Prize in just three words, what would they be?

Exchange, innovation, creation.

How did the idea for the prize come about and how did the project come to fruition in 2023?

The idea was initiated by Ismail Tazi, a charismatic entrepreneur, who proposed to François that they design this prize together, reflecting their shared commitment to design. Drawing on shared experiences, we developed the project in every detail. The Arab World Institute quickly supported us, enabling the first edition to launch in 2023, which was immediately met with great enthusiasm and confirmed success the following year.

You’ve both worked on various design projects. What makes the IMA Design Prize unique?

This prize stems from a rare collaboration with a world-renowned cultural institution. The IMA embodies dialogue and openness between the Arab and European worlds: here, design becomes a true vector of exchange, education, and transmission, beyond aesthetics. It carries strong social, economic, and environmental dimensions. Building this prize over time with the Institute gives it meaning and anchors contemporary creation in a sustainable dynamic.

This year marks the 3rd edition of the prize. What makes this edition different? How has the prize evolved in two years?

Each edition is enriched by application experiences and jury insights. In 2025, the prize will include a new category dedicated to contemporary craftsmanship. With the jury’s guidance, we refined our approach, focusing on the real impact of each project: its function, its connection to its territory, and its response to contemporary challenges. The appointment of a prominent figure, with a cross-disciplinary view of design and architecture, as jury president reflects our ambition to blend creativity, know-how, and innovation.

What qualities must participants absolutely demonstrate to compete?

Candidates must have a connection with one of the Arab League countries – through origin, residence, or project – and fit into one of the design disciplines: craftsmanship, interior architecture, product design, design thinking, or collection design. Development potential, societal and environmental impact are decisive. We expect bold proposals, in tune with their time, able to weave a dialogue between tradition and modernity, utility, and vision of the future.

Are there any specific constraints imposed by the IMA (materials, historical standards, etc.)?

No formal constraints are imposed. Authenticity remains the only requirement.

On what criteria does the jury evaluate applications?

Each jury president offers a unique perspective. The first edition highlighted formal and functional quality, the second focused on measuring the overall impact of projects – economic, social, environmental. We are eager to discover the direction Lina Ghotmeh will give to this third edition.

What does participation – or even winning – the prize actually offer?

Being a finalist opens the door to an exhibition at the IMA during Paris Design Week, offering valuable visibility to talents among professionals. Additionally, our partner UNIDO offers training for project development. Some prizes include awards: a special edition with Gorbon Ceramics, or a €10,000 grant from Arab Bank Switzerland for the Impact Prize. More than a reward, the prize is a real springboard, facilitating connections with publishers, collectors, and manufacturers.

The good news is that it’s not too late to apply. The call for entries is open until May 20, 2025, and this year invites designers to submit projects aiming to create future objects and architectures for the region, taking into account local know-how, circular economies, and environmental challenges. All practical information and the call for project can be found on the Arab World Institute’s website. The award ceremony will take place on September 3, 2025, and will inaugurate an exhibition of the selected and winning candidates’ projects.