As Sole DXB 2024 quickly approaches, the region’s leading contemporary culture festival is set to return in full force, bigger and more impactful than ever! Taking place from December 13^thto 15^th, the festival will present an exciting lineup of immersive brand activations, captivating programming and exclusive fashion collections alongside its exceptional music roster. In collaboration with strategic partners Dubai Calendar and Dubai Design District (d3), the festival promises to deliver a rich cultural experience featuring world-class talent, engaging talks, fashion pop-ups, workshops, sports and innovative activations across its vibrant venue at d3.

This year’s festival boasts an exciting array of brand collaborations, from the highly anticipated adidas Originals CLOT Dress Capsule by Edison Chen, QASIMI and Claudette to Sonos, ASICS and Diesel. Visitors can explore local, regional and international collaborations through platforms like Spotlight: presented by d3 and Sole DXB, featuring Peace Venue, Barzakh, Suez Studio and more. Attendees can also savour unique offerings from Deliveroo x FIX, noon Minutes’ Ice-Cream Project and CANCRO’s cutting-edge hydration concepts. From iconic collections to transformative experiences, Sole DXB continues to push the boundaries of cultural celebration, originality and innovation.

Programming Highlights

Sole DXB X Dazed Talks Programme

The Sole DXB x Dazed Talks Programme will feature thought-provoking conversations across architecture, music, fashion and cultural narratives, featuring leading voices from around the globe. Running from December 13 to 15, 2024, this series will include presentations like ‘Beyond Brick and Mortar: Redefining Architecture and Impermanence’ by Sara Bokr, moderated by SarraAlayyan and ‘The Only Good System is a Sound System’ with Uncle Ronnie and Gabre Selassie, hosted by Joseph Patel. Patta Academy will discuss their ethos of community empowerment in ‘Each One Teach One’, while Empire will delve into global sounds with Afikra Quartertones. The programme will also feature intimate sessions with notable creatives like Sid Sriram, Santi, Akala, PariaFarzaneh and Kartik Kumra, exploring themes of belonging, tradition and innovation. This collaboration between Sole DXB and Dazed MENA promises a transformative dialogue platform for creatives and visionaries alike.

The Sole INVITATIONAL Basketball Tournament

The Sole INVITATIONAL, the festival’s signature basketball event, elevates the experience with a high-energy three-day tournament featuring 14 teams across Men’s, Boys’ Under-19, and Women’s All-Star divisions. Friday kicks off with thrilling pool-stage games, setting the tone for the weekend. Saturday offers a mix of pool games, a special 10U Academy session designed to inspire the next generation of players and the much-anticipated Women’s All-Star Game under the lights. Sunday, known as Championship Sunday, concludes the action with the semifinals and finals, delivering unforgettable moments on the court. With international players, special guests and high-level competition, the tournament continues to celebrate sports culture.

The Sole DXB Skatepark

The iconic Sole DXB Skatepark returns this year as a highlight of the festival, offering registered skaters a space to showcase their skills and connect with the skateboarding community. The high-energy contests and obstacles will bring out the best in skaters, while open skate sessions provide opportunities to refine tricks and engage with fellow enthusiasts. Participation is for registered skaters only and spectators are welcome.

Sneaker Swap & Thrift Market at Sole DXB

The iconic Sole DXB Sneaker Swap & Vintage Thrift Market returns this year as a cornerstone of the festival’s legacy, offering collectors a vibrant platform to buy, sell and trade. Featuring 13 curated vendors, including Spartans Sneakers, WW Sneaker Seller, Fashion Rerun and 80’s Thrift, the market is a treasure trove of grails and rare finds. Festivalgoers can explore exclusive collections, uncover hidden gems and connect with a thriving community of sneakerheads and thrifters. Open throughout the weekend, the Sneaker Swap & Thrift Market is a must-visit destination where every piece tells a story.

Power Horse Dance Programme at Sole DXB

Power Horse and Sole DXB will unite to celebrate movement, through a two-day dance programme and a roster of Dubai’s best selectors. Featuring the Set Killer Rounds, where dancers bring their most impressive moves in high-stakes battles and the Open Dance Session, a platform for freestyle expression that invites both dancers and spectators to connect through rhythm and style. Musical styles featured will include hip-hop, amapiano, baile funk and more.

Spotlight by d3

Dubai Design District (d3) and Sole DXB will join forces once again to present Spotlight by d3, a celebration of independent fashion and lifestyle brands. This showcase will highlight designers and creators rooted in community-focused and next-generation values. Discover original, cross-cultural collections from rising designers across the UAE, UK, US and more. Featured brands will include:

@azradubaiRepresenting the Khaleeji active women, outdoors, bold, and brave. Their mission is to provide women with breathable, high quality fabrics, with loose and modest cuts, while maintaining an effortless look and feel.

@thisisbarzakhAn avant-garde, genderless Sharjah based jewelry brand with craftsmanship, sustainability and storytelling at its core. They’ll unveil new additions to their debut collection ‘Howling Through the Threshold’ at Sole DXB 2024.

@dastaangoiThe Islamabad-rooted fragrance house presents scented candles that evoke regional memories, with exclusive collaborations with locally-based artists and Sole DXB.

@peace.venuePromoting tranquility, the UAE-established brand will debut a new collection in their interactive space, incorporating contemporary mixed media and bold aesthetics.

@this_is_me_sneakersBuilt on self expression through handcrafted footwear customization, is championing individuality

@ibw.ibw.ibw A multidisciplinary Dubai-based brand, producing music, art and fashion. Interested in reclaiming cultural heritage, they’ll showcase their new collection in addition to an IBW x Sole curated playlist.

@suezstudioTransforming Arab heritage textiles into wearable garments.
@ibyworldFusing Cardiff and Dubai influences into streetwear collections.
@ncapped evolved from an online gallery that explored Birmingham’s contemporary music and fashion scene into a casual clothing brand and will offer exclusive tees with football-themed challenges and prizes.
@parkhillclothingcompanyShowcasing styles inspired by Staten Island youth culture.
@basliq_Introducing handcrafted jewellery with regional-exclusive colorways.

Immersive Brand Activations

Sonos: House of Sound Experience

Sonos is set to debut at Sole DXB 2024 with the immersive Sonos House of Sound experience. Celebrating the convergence of culture, music and style, Sonos will showcase its Sonos Ace headphones and launch the new colours of its Sonos Roam 2 speaker, bringing premium audio to the heart of the Middle East’s vibrant cultural scene. The Sonos House of Sound invites festivalgoers to experience curated vinyl and playlists highlighting Middle Eastern heritage alongside local artists, creating an auditory journey enhanced by Sonos’ high-fidelity sound technology. Guests can engage in hands-on workshops, intimate artist talks and try the Sonos Ace headphones, equipped with Dolby Atmos and Active Noise Cancellation for an immersive, style-forward experience. The Roam 2’s new hues ‘Olive, Wave and Sunset’ add a touch of Dubai’s natural beauty to Sonos’ iconic sound.

ASICS

Set to make a bold statement at Sole DXB this year, ASICS has collaborated with HIDDEN NY for its Middle East debut, marking the launch of the highly anticipated GEL-VENTURE™ 6 SHIELD shoe. This exclusive activation brings HIDDEN NY to the region for the first time, celebrating creativity and craftsmanship through an immersive booth experience. The design of the GEL-VENTURE™ 6 SHIELD draws inspiration from gemstone laboratories and archaeological studies, featuring metallic turquoise ASICS Tiger Stripes, reflective accents, and a turquoise map on the sockliner—a nod to Southwest American jewelry traditions. Attendees will engage with the collaboration’s excavation-themed narrative through hands-on activations, including fossil printing and screen printing. Following its global unveiling at Complex Con, the Sole DXB launch underscores ASICS’ commitment to storytelling and innovation, cementing its position at the crossroads of art, culture, and streetwear.

adidas Originals

adidas Originals takes centre stage at Sole DXB 2024 with the exclusive launch of the highly anticipated CLOT Dress Capsule by Edison Chen. This capsule collection merges heritage with contemporary streetwear aesthetics, redefining styles through elevated craftsmanship. Staying true to its legacy, Edison Chen retains the classic shell-toe and clean lines but infuses a fresh perspective with fine Italian leather detailing and refined finishes, offering a luxurious twist on an enduring classic. To celebrate the launch, adidas Originals presents All Eyes on East, a short film that celebrates the creative intersections where Eastern influence—from the Arabian Peninsula to Asia—continues to shape global fashion and culture. Guests can purchase the CLOT Dress Capsule by Edison Chen firsthand at the adidas Originals booth, featuring exclusive on-ground tailoring services for personalised pieces, available only from December 13–15 at Sole DXB. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the festival, adidas Originals will also showcase a stellar lineup of live performances by local and regional talent, including Sunayah, DJ Adidaddi, Diamond Setter, Fly Hendrix, Doowap and more. Blending bold style, cultural storytelling, and dynamic programming, adidas Originals promises an unforgettable presence at Sole DXB 2024.

Diesel

Diesel Unites Creativity with the World’s Biggest Street Art Collective at Sole DXB

Diesel is set to make a bold statement at Sole DXB 2024 with the launch of the world’s largest street art collective. Artists of all levels, from beginners to seasoned professionals, are invited to contribute their unique perspectives and creativity to this global project. Participants at Diesel’s booth will collaborate on a collective masterpiece that transcends boundaries and celebrates artistic expression. The culmination of this project will be unveiled as the world’s largest canvas during Diesel’s Fall/winter 2025 fashion show. Adding to the excitement, Diesel will also present Egyptian rapper Marwan Pablo on the Sole DXB Main Stage on Saturday, December 14th, further amplifying the brand’s celebration of culture and creativity. For updates, follow @diesel_arabia on Instagram and @diesel on TikTok. #DieselFW25 #DieselArtCollective

25hours Hotel One Central at Sole DXB

At the heart of Sole DXB, 25hours Hotel One Central embodies community and creativity. With its soulful spaces, the coolest kid in town continues its partnership with the festival, celebrating culture and connection. Over the years, 25hours Hotel  has been an official partner of Sole DXB, becoming a hotspot for artists, production teams, and the creative energy that fuels the festival—the force that powers the community and brings the event to life. Aiming to bring this environment to the 2024 edition, the 25hours booth captures the hotel’s vibe with an immersive experience that blends past and future. Analog elements showcase the hotel’s signature style, while festival-goers can enjoy a mix of ambiance and F&B in a chill and inviting atmosphere. Come as you are.

Deliveroo x FIX at Sole DXB Write-up

FIX Dessert Chocolatier and Deliveroo are bringing an unmissable activation to Sole DXB with the SOLED OUT Xperience—a first-of-its-kind, immersive pop-up that merges Arabic heritage, luxury, and bold design. Inspired by FIX’s signature chocolate bar flavours, this interactive space celebrates the brand’s iconic impact across the globe. Visitors can purchase their favourite bars, win exclusive FIX merchandise, get bags personalised by a live artist, and discover the story behind FIX. With photo ops, live DJ performances, and every detail crafted for a Freakin’ Incredible ‘Xperience, FIX’s debut pop-up is set to be an unforgettable highlight of Sole DXB.

Claudette

Claudette Joins Sole DXB 2024 with a Focus on Community and Connection

Claudette, the female-led, community-focused fashion label born in New York City and rooted in Kuwait, is bringing its vision to Sole DXB 2024. Known for its high-quality clothing adorned with powerful messaging and striking graphics, Claudette emphasises mental health, culture and global connection. Having made its mark at events like Art Basel in Miami, Shoreditch in London, Kuwait City and Dubai, Claudette continues to inspire and foster community through fashion and shared experiences.

QASIMI

QASIMI is set to make a bold debut at Sole DXB 2024, bringing its signature blend of rich cultural narratives to the heart of Dubai. The London-based fashion label, deeply rooted in Emirati heritage, will showcase three exclusive collections within a striking, industrial-inspired installation designed in collaboration with final-year Interior Design students from the University of Sharjah. Highlights include the exclusive Rising Sun Capsule Collection, featuring apparel that symbolizes hope and renewal; a dedicated Palestine Collection, expressing solidarity through iconic designs; and a special QASIMI x Buzigahill collaboration, which reimagines repurposed denim in a powerful statement of sustainability. Available only at Sole DXB and later in a limited release on www.qasimi.com early 2025; these collections embody the brand’s commitment to artistry, culture and environmental responsibility.

noon Minutes Brings the Ice-Cream Project to Sole DXB 2024

noon Minutes, the region’s hyper-local 15 minute delivery platform, is set to bring its bold and innovative Ice-Cream Project to Sole DXB 2024. Rooted in innovation and inspired by the region’s diverse tastes, this unique concept transforms familiar favourites into unique ice cream creations. From the nostalgic tang of Chips Oman and Laban Up to playful twists on ChupaChups and Heinz Tomato Ketchup, each flavour tells a story of local and global connections. With the Ice-Cream Project, noon Minutes invites guests to explore a one-of-kind dimension of dessert culture at the festival.

CANCRO x Sole DXB: Advanced Hydration Makes Its Middle Eastern Debut

CANCRO, the advanced hydration water brand, debuts in the Middle East as the Official Water Partner for Sole DXB 2024. Known for its science-backed benefits, including 25% better hydration, 50% more energy, and 25% less inflammation, CANCRO offers festivalgoers premium hydration throughout the venue, including VIP areas. Available in recyclable 500ml plastic and 750ml glass bottles, CANCRO will also engage attendees with interactive activations like a Hydration Trivia Challenge, giving participants a chance to win a three-month supply of the drink. Launching online in December 2024, CANCRO sets a new standard in hydration and wellness for the region.

Sole DXB 2024: What to Expect

In celebration of its 12th anniversary, Sole DXB 2024 promises an even more immersive festival experience with the introduction of a second stage, extended hours from 3PM to 2AM and a diverse lineup of artists spanning genres from hip-hop, jazz to world, R&B and dance music. Festivalgoers can explore an eclectic mix of fashion, art and food & beverage brands, along with curated talks, sports showcases and interactive activations that will bring together creators and fans from across the globe.

Sole DXB Off Circuit and Weeklong Cultural Activities

Sole DXB Off Circuit returns for its second year, presenting a vibrant week of events that celebrate culture and creativity across Dubai. At Gulf Photo Plus in Alserkal Avenue, visitors can experience The Life of an Itinerant Through a Pinhole, a fine-art photography exhibition, open Monday to Saturday, 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, running until 31^st January. Efie Gallery will host with SN3 studios Children of the Nile Vol.1, a duo exhibition from 9th to 21st December, alongside a show titled Sambadio, which will present Abdoulaye Konaté’s new monumental 9-metre work until 6^th January, with daily hours from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM.

For early risers, Gaijin x Sole DXB Ride 2024 on 13^th December will offer a sunrise cycling adventure for group rides between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM at Café Peloton, DXBike. While water sports enthusiasts can participate in the Set Sail with Sole DXB & Wind Rises on 8^th December, a hands-on sailing experience at Port Rashid from 9:30 AM to 12:30 PM. On 11^th December, PEAQ, the Middle East’s first social wellness club, will host a wellness event focused on the Lagree method and Contrast Therapy, offering a unique way to recharge during the week.

The Campy Chronicles Book Club on 8^th December invites book lovers to delve into Julia Cameron’s The Artist’s Way from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Following this from 9^th to 12^th December, aspiring entrepreneurs can attend the Patta Academy x Sole DXB workshop focused on creating and building communities running daily from 9:30 AM to 5:00 PM.

Film and music fans can enjoy the Carhartt WIP x Cinema Akil special screening on 9th and 10th December, celebrating the legacy of French Electronica, while music enthusiasts can attend the Art of Sound vinyl session by The Originals and Effie Gallery in Al Quoz on 10^th December from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Meanwhile, PIPELINE, a collaboration between Dubai community cafe and bar Lulu & the bean stalk will host a cultural gathering at ICE Brookfield in DIFC and light up the evening of 11^th December from 8:00 PM to 2:00 AM.

The week concludes with Afikra Session’s thought-provoking conversations with artists on the topic of ‘Succeeding at an Independent Music Career in Dubai’ at Alserkal Avenue on 11^th December from 8:00 PM to 9:30 PM, followed by a community run with The Uncommon Club at Kite Beach on 12^th December, starting at 6:00 AM.

Stay tuned to Sole DXB’s social media channels or sign up for the newsletter at soledxb.com for the latest updates on the lineup, programming and everything else in store for this year’s festival. Tickets are available at soledxb.com and Platinumlist.