What we’re about
Human Centred Design (HCD) UAE, formerly User Experience (UX) UAE, was born from Designers new to the region and wanting to share experiences and grow the UAE Design community. The mission of this meetup is for Designers to get together and talk about best practices and emerging techniques in Human Centred Design. We welcome people from all backgrounds interested in design. We meet as often as we can and in the spirit of further education set an optional reading component from a book related to the topic of discussion. Details of the books read and the upcoming reading list will be published in advance. You can be ensured of a lively discussion on all things design.
NOTE: Ticket numbers are STRICTLY LIMITED and on Eventbrite ONLY
For our upcoming Human Centred Design (HCD) UAE Meetup, we have booked The Courtyard Playhouse for something theatrical.
This isn’t a panel.
It’s not a keynote.
For the first time ever, we will showcase design on stage to confront ideas, seek clarity, and uphold our beliefs.
We’ve already secured the tickets. You can claim yours with 100% off, but only if you commit to the conversation.
The Motion:
AI will lead design
We asked the community, and this was the winning vote. Now we’re making it real.
This is a space for thoughtful disagreement, where ideas are tested, challenged, and clarified.
We’re not just looking for opinions.
We’re looking for high-res thinking.
Meet the voices who’ll take a side:
👍 FOR
Tim Daines - Co-Founder & CPDO - Synaptix
“The scariest thing about AI? Designers who sketch themselves out of a job - creativity becomes causality.”
Tim strongly believes in the potential loss of originality and innovation when designers overly depend on AI.
Jay Tulloch - Head of Platform Product Design - Careem
"AI will lead design into places we’ve never imagined."
Jay sees a shift coming. AI won’t just support design; it’ll steer it.
👎 AGAINST
Angelique Alexander - Principal Design Lead - A171
"The integration of AI demands clear leadership, and that leadership belongs to design."
Angelique believes AI is a powerful tool for enhancing design skills and processes, but it should never dictate or replace them.
Mila Krus - Head of Interaction Design and Visual Design - Emirates NBD
"Designers don’t play nice. But we play smart."
Mila’s here to tell us why design needs to stay in control, even with AI lurking in the background. Can we trust AI to know what’s best for design?
What to expect...
- A structured debate format with two teams competing
- Real-time audience voting on which side made the stronger case
- A chance to witness how design and AI intersect and compete for clarity
- Engaging discussions, intellectual tension, and moments that might challenge your perspective.
This is the place if you’ve ever wanted to see design ideas tested, challenged, and pushed to the limit.
70 seats only. No fence-sitting. Claim your seat before 1st May.
Ticket numbers are STRICTLY LIMITED and on Eventbrite ONLY
Upcoming events (2)
See all- Abu Dhabi: From Driver to Passenger: Designing for Autonomous ExperiencesTHE BRIDGE | Wellness Hub, Abu Dhabi
We had such a great turnout and conversation last time, so if you missed it, don’t worry… we’re bringing the fun back to Abu Dhabi next month!
As AI and automation continue to shape our world, how do we design products that truly serve human needs—rather than just chase the latest tech trends?
Join us for a fireside chat on the evolving landscape of autonomous vehicles, AI-powered products, and human-centred design, with;
Janna Tenenbaum-Katan - Product Manager at SteerAI, an autonomous mobility technology company, Janna has over a decade of experience leading successful production launches using data-driven strategies and metrics that drive success.Hosted by Christopher Clark - Design Director & Innovation Consultant with over 25 years of experience, including Infotainment design at Jaguar Land Rover.
Expect interactive discussions, thought-provoking insights, and plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded designers, product thinkers, and AI enthusiasts.
📅 Date: May 7
🕕 Time: 6.00PM
📍 Venue: The Bridge Wellness HubLet’s cut through the noise and talk about designing AI and autonomous experiences that truly matter. See you there!
- Will AI lead or follow design? The Debate Starts HereThe Courtyard Playhouse, , Dubai
NOTE: Ticket numbers are STRICTLY LIMITED and on Eventbrite ONLY
For our upcoming Human Centred Design (HCD) UAE Meetup, we have booked The Courtyard Playhouse for something theatrical.
This isn’t a panel.
It’s not a keynote.
For the first time ever, we will showcase design on stage to confront ideas, seek clarity, and uphold our beliefs.
We’ve already secured the tickets. You can claim yours with 100% off, but only if you commit to the conversation.
The Motion:
AI will lead designWe asked the community, and this was the winning vote. Now we’re making it real.
This is a space for thoughtful disagreement, where ideas are tested, challenged, and clarified.
We’re not just looking for opinions.
We’re looking for high-res thinking.
Meet the voices who’ll take a side:
👍 FOR
Tim Daines - Co-Founder & CPDO - Synaptix
“The scariest thing about AI? Designers who sketch themselves out of a job - creativity becomes causality.”Tim strongly believes in the potential loss of originality and innovation when designers overly depend on AI.
Jay Tulloch - Head of Platform Product Design - Careem
"AI will lead design into places we’ve never imagined."
Jay sees a shift coming. AI won’t just support design; it’ll steer it.👎 AGAINST
Angelique Alexander - Principal Design Lead - A171
"The integration of AI demands clear leadership, and that leadership belongs to design."Angelique believes AI is a powerful tool for enhancing design skills and processes, but it should never dictate or replace them.
Mila Krus - Head of Interaction Design and Visual Design - Emirates NBD
"Designers don’t play nice. But we play smart."Mila’s here to tell us why design needs to stay in control, even with AI lurking in the background. Can we trust AI to know what’s best for design?
What to expect...
- A structured debate format with two teams competing
- Real-time audience voting on which side made the stronger case
- A chance to witness how design and AI intersect and compete for clarity
- Engaging discussions, intellectual tension, and moments that might challenge your perspective.
This is the place if you’ve ever wanted to see design ideas tested, challenged, and pushed to the limit.
70 seats only. No fence-sitting. Claim your seat before 1st May.
Ticket numbers are STRICTLY LIMITED and on Eventbrite ONLY
