• Pearl Initiative and Awqaf Abu Dhabi hosted a virtual convening exploring the role of Waqf within the UAE’s economic and philanthropic landscape.
• The discussion examined how Waqf is currently structured, governed and applied as a model for sustainable, long-term philanthropic impact.
• Participants highlighted the shift towards more strategic, structured approaches to giving, underpinned by governance, accountability and impact measurement.
• The session explored practical ways for individuals, family businesses and corporates to engage with Waqf as part of a broader sustainable development agenda.
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As philanthropy across the Gulf region continues to evolve towards more strategic, structured and impact-oriented approaches, Pearl Initiative and The Endowments and Minors Funds Authority (Awqaf Abu Dhabi) recently convened business leaders, family offices, philanthropists, foundations and corporate decision-makers for a discussion examining the practical application of Waqf and its growing role within the UAE’s economic and philanthropic landscape.

The webinar, “Waqf in Practice: Governance, Structure, and Its Role in the UAE’s Economic Landscape”, explored how one of the region’s most enduring philanthropic traditions is evolving to meet the needs of a modern economy while retaining its core purpose of delivering enduring social value. Moving beyond introductory concepts, the discussion focused on how Waqf is being designed, governed and implemented today, and how it can serve as a powerful mechanism for creating sustainable social and economic value.

As interest grows in more intentional and sustainable models of giving, the conversation explored the shift from short-term charitable contributions towards structures that preserve capital, generate long-term, multi-generational impact. Participants highlighted the continued relevance of Islamic philanthropy and Waqf as a model for structured social investment.

A key theme throughout the session was Waqf’s ability to combine wealth preservation with meaningful social impact. By safeguarding endowed assets and directing returns to charitable and developmental objectives, it supports national priorities, upholds donor intent, and extends benefits beyond a donor’s lifetime. For family offices, the discussion highlighted how Waqf can preserve wealth across generations, supporting governance, succession planning, and reducing the risk of asset fragmentation or conflict.
 
The discussion also explored how Waqf is increasingly part of the UAE’s broader economic and development agenda, supported by strong governance, transparent oversight, and a growing ecosystem of institutions advancing sustainable philanthropy. Participants also examined how Waqf is evolving into a modern, active vehicle that supports this agenda while making structured and impactful giving more accessible to a broader range of donors.

Participants explored practical pathways for individuals, family businesses, foundations and corporates to engage with Waqf, alongside growing public-private collaboration to unlock greater impact from philanthropic capital. The conversation highlighted that strong governance, clear accountability and effective impact measurement are key to strengthening donor confidence and ensuring long-term value from philanthropic assets.

For businesses in particular, the discussion highlighted the opportunity to move beyond traditional corporate social responsibility models and consider how structured philanthropic mechanisms can become part of a broader long-term value creation strategy. As organisations increasingly seek to align commercial success with societal impact, Waqf presents a compelling framework through which businesses can contribute to sustainable development while embedding purposes more deeply into their operations.

Awqaf Abu Dhabi shared insights into its role in regulating, preserving and developing endowed assets, and how effective stewardship supports long-term social and economic value creation. Mandated to manage Abu Dhabi’s endowments, it continues to strengthen the sector’s contribution to sustainable development through innovative investment approaches, responsible stewardship, and ensuring endowed assets generate lasting value for current and future generations.

The discussion reflects Pearl Initiative’s ongoing commitment to advancing corporate governance and strengthening a culture of transparency, accountability and responsible leadership across the Gulf. By convening leaders from the business and philanthropic communities, the organisation continues to highlight how strong governance frameworks underpin effective philanthropy, strengthen institutional resilience, and support long-term social and economic progress.
 
About the Pearl Initiative  
The Pearl Initiative is the Gulf region’s leading independent, non-profit organisation working to promote the business case for a corporate culture of accountability and transparency. Established in 2010 by regional business leaders in cooperation with the United Nations Office for Partnerships, the Pearl Initiative is the only private, non-profit Gulf business network to receive special consultative status from the United Nations Economic and Social Council. The Pearl Initiative runs a series of corporate governance related programmes, including Anti-Corruption Best Practices, Diversity in Business Leadership, Governance in MSMEs, Governance in Family Firms, Governance in Tech, and Governance in Philanthropy. The organisation also conducts locally relevant research, hosts workshops and executive education training sessions, and convenes business leaders, policymakers, students, and non-profit executives to encourage a proactive approach to implementing best practices in the workplace across the Gulf region.
 
About Awqaf Abu Dhabi
Established in May 2023, Awqaf Abu Dhabi promotes and advances the practice of endowment (waqf), maximising social and financial impact across the community through sustainable investments and partnerships.
In addition to overseeing endowment-related processes, Awqaf Abu Dhabi manages the financial guardianship and development of the funds of minors, interdicted persons and others, supporting greater financial and social inclusion.
Awqaf Abu Dhabi aims to strengthen the culture of endowments, and organises events, conferences, and seminars focused on the governance, management and investment of endowments and minors’ funds, while contributing to the evolution of endowment practices across the Emirate.
“https://adawqaf.gov.ae/en”
 

Placing governance at the heart of philanthropic decision-making, Pearl Initiative, together with the Shefa Fund and the International Organization for Migration (IOM), brought together a group of next-generation philanthropic leaders from the Gulf region to Athens for a four-day learning journey.

Dana Juffali and Haya Juffali, Board Members at the Shefa Fund, jointly stated: “At the Shefa Fund, we believe philanthropy is not only about providing resources, but about cultivating compassion, responsibility, and a lifelong commitment to service. The Next Gen Learning Trip reflects our focus on partnership, learning, and community-led impact by engaging young leaders directly with the organizations and communities they support. We are especially excited to be here in Greece, learning from and alongside inspiring local partners.”
According to the latest UN statistics, 305 million people in 2025 required urgent aid as conflict and climate-related disasters escalated. In Greece alone, IOM has supported over 305,259 beneficiaries since 2020, highlighting the scale and complexity of migration and displacement on the ground.

During the trip, participants visited selected humanitarian facilities and operational sites to witness how humanitarian operations work in practice, strengthening their ability to apply governance and accountability to future-giving decisions. This immersive, firsthand exposure translated into clearer insight on how strong governance frameworks improve effectiveness, build trust and support long-term philanthropic impact.

Accompanied by the Pearl Initiative’s Governance in Philanthropy Programme team, the learning trip supported participants in understanding the roles, responsibilities and coordination mechanisms that underpin effective humanitarian service delivery.
Working closely with IOM as the on-the-ground partner, participants were exposed to the operational realities of migration and displacement in Greece through site visits to Reception and Identification Services (RIS), Safe Zones for unaccompanied children, health and integration programme centres, and other humanitarian facilities.

“Responsible philanthropy starts with listening to communities and understanding their rights and priorities,” said Mohammed Abdiker, IOM’s Chief of Staff. “When leaders see operations first-hand and engage directly with the people affected, support becomes more accountable, more targeted and more effective in protecting dignity and delivering lasting results.”
Through guided discussions and facilitated workshops, the learning trip translated these field experiences into practical governance frameworks that can support more strategic, accountable and long-term philanthropic decision-making.

“This learning trip was about grounding philanthropy in reality,” said Ralph Choueiri, Executive Director of Pearl Initiative. “Through our Governance in Philanthropy Programme, participants gained a deeper understanding of humanitarian operations and experienced first-hand how governance, accountability and strategic partnerships should be embedded into future decision-making to achieve sustainable, long-term outcomes.”

The trip’s agenda focused on the importance of long-term thinking in humanitarian giving, with emphasis on how clear governance structures can strengthen outcomes over time. Peer exchange among participants further reinforced the role of collaboration and shared learning in building a new generation of value-driven philanthropic leadership in the region.

This trip formed part of the Pearl Initiative’s broader efforts to promote transparency, accountability and good governance across the philanthropic and private sectors. By combining real-world exposure with structured reflection and governance frameworks, this inspirational journey aimed to equip next-generation philanthropists with the knowledge needed to choose the right partners, ask the right questions, and make more effective decisions in complex humanitarian environments.

*ENDS*
 
About the Pearl Initiative 
 
The Pearl Initiative is the Gulf region’s leading independent, non-profit organisation working to promote the business case for a corporate culture of accountability and transparency. Established in 2010 by regional business leaders in cooperation with the United Nations Office for Partnerships, the Pearl Initiative is the only private, non-profit Gulf business network to receive special consultative status from the United Nations Economic and Social Council. The Pearl Initiative runs a series of corporate governance related programmes, including Anti-Corruption Best Practices, Diversity in Business Leadership, Governance in MSMEs, Governance in Family Firms, Governance in Tech, and Governance in Philanthropy. The organisation also conducts locally relevant research, hosts workshops and executive education training sessions, and convenes business leaders, policymakers, students, and non-profit executives to encourage a proactive approach to implementing best practices in the workplace across the Gulf region. 

Sabari Indian School, a KHDA-rated “Good” CBSE school located in Al Wuheida, Dubai, has been acquired by Newron, the education arm of ODM Educational Group, and will now operate as part of the ODM network. The school was acquired from Al Najah Education as part of an ownership transition.
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The change in ownership was formally communicated to parents through a joint letter signed by Raza Khan, CEO of Al Najah Education, and Swoyan Satyendu, CEO of Newron (ODM Educational Group). The letter confirmed that the school’s day-to-day operations will continue with no changes to staff contracts or parent agreements, ensuring a seamless transition for students, families, and employees.

Founded in 2013, Sabari Indian School has served thousands of students under the CBS curriculum, earning the trust of Indian families across Dubai through its nurturing, values-based approach to education. Under the stewardship of Al Najah Education—one of the UAE’s reputed education investment and management groups—the school built a strong foundation rooted in inclusivity and community engagement.

Under Newron and ODM Educational Group, Sabari will continue to build on these strengths while benefiting from ODM’s experience in school excellence, leadership development, and innovation. The Group has also outlined a focused improvement roadmap aimed at supporting Sabari Indian School in progressing toward a “Very Good” rating in upcoming KHDA inspection cycles.

Commenting on the acquisition, Swoyan Satyendu said: “We are honored to carry forward the legacy of Sabari Indian School, a name that has earned immense goodwill within Dubai’s education community. Our goal is to build upon this strong foundation, empowering students and educators with modern practices, digital integration, and holistic learning experiences that define ODM’s approach. We look forward to collaborating closely with the KHDA, Al Najah Education, and the broader school community in this journey of growth.”

Headquartered in India, ODM Educational Group is among the country’s respected integrated school networks, serving over 11,500 students across six schools. The Group is widely recognized for its consistent academic performance, robust teacher development programs, and holistic learning framework that blends academics with sports, leadership, and technology.
Originating from the Indian state of Odisha, ODM has expanded across several Indian cities including Bhubaneswar, Ranchi, Durgapur, Gurgaon, and Angul—and now marks its first international expansion with the acquisition of Sabari Indian School in Dubai.

​For more information about ODM, please visit https://www.odmegroup.org/

After two successful editions of the Youth Impact Lab that brought together 85 students from 10 universities, Pearl Initiative, a non-profit organisation dedicated to strengthening corporate governance across the Gulf region, has partnered with the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) to launch the Creative Entrepreneurship Lab, a new initiative empowering young creative leaders through the principles of good governance.

The inaugural of the Creative Entrepreneurship Lab session took place in the end of November, at the Jafar Center for Executive Education – American University of Sharjah. The one-day experience is designed to support and inspire young cultural and creative leaders to combine artistic talent with purpose and strong governance, transforming their ideas into impactful visions for social change.

Through dialogue with experienced philanthropists and artists, structured mentorship, and a comprehensive pitch development workshop, participants explored how creative expression can be paired with purpose and good governance to build initiatives that are both inspiring and sustainable, with clear accountability and funding potential.

H.E. Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, Founder of the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF), and Founder and Artistic Director of Abu Dhabi Festival, said:
“Through the Creative Entrepreneurship Lab under the Young Philanthropist programme, in partnership with the Pearl Initiative, we seek to establish a pioneering model that fosters a culture of accountability and transparency. By combining artistic creativity with social purpose, we enhance innovation in business and culture, create meaningful opportunities and nurture a culture of human impact locally and globally within the framework of a sustainable creative economy.

H.E. added: “We work hand-in-hand to empower young leaders to create impact, engaging community members and students from UAE universities – including American University of Sharjah, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, and Manipal University Dubai preparing them to exchange creative ideas and develop innovative solutions to environmental, social and humanitarian challenges.”

To open the programme, ADMAF hosted a Riwaq Al Fikr talk, its cultural dialogue and knowledge-exchange initiative, titled ‘Building Creative Ventures for Lasting Social Impact’, bringing together cultural leaders, philanthropists and entrepreneurs. The session explored real-world partnerships, funding pathways and the role of strong governance in ensuring that arts-driven initiatives deliver meaningful and sustained social and environmental progress. It also highlighted how clear frameworks, transparent processes and measurable outcomes build trust and enable collaborative ventures to flourish. The panellists included Dr Pradeep Sharma, Director, Arts, Culture and Heritage, Salama bint Hamdan Al Nahyan Foundation and Kamila Rangoonwala Ahmed, Founder, KRA Art Advisory.

In the next part of the session, participants took part in a competition where they worked with a diverse group of mentors including, Sarah Sabbagh, Founder, 180xSarah; Dr. Wasseem Abaza, Professor of Entrepreneurship, Zayed University, and Dipika Mallya, Founder, Ideation Labs to explore practical ways of transforming creative expression into structured, fundable and purpose-driven social ventures. Through this process, they gained hands-on experience in designing, pitching and presenting their creative projects for social impact, with guidance on governance, partnerships and funding readiness.

The participating teams focused on addressing a range of social challenges. Their pitch presentation showcased their dedication to driving positive change within their communities, and reflected a solid understanding of the importance of combining artistic vision with business acumen and governance for building ventures that are impactful and sustainable.  

Commenting on the success of this year’s challenge, Ralph Choueiri, Executive Director of Pearl Initiative stated: “This year’s competition is another demonstration of our commitment at Pearl Initiative to integrating governance principles into the creative economy. This year, we have worked closely with ADMAF to refine the programme to enable the creative entrepreneurs translate their ideas into impactful projects. The ideas presented this year show that when creativity is guided by vision and strong governance, it can deliver meaningful and lasting social impact in UAE, and across the region.”

The participating teams was rewarded with a one-month internship opportunity at ADMAF, which will allow them to gain real-life experience. They will work alongside ADMAF’s professional team to further develop project ideas, gaining insights on how creative ventures can be effectively structured and governed for long-term social impact.

The Creative Entrepreneurship Lab reinforced Pearl Initiative’s commitment to nurturing young leadership and entrepreneurship in the UAE, and across the Gulf region. By integrating social impact and strong governance principles into the creative economy, the initiative aims to strengthen the ecosystem of young philanthropists and changemakers driving impact through innovation and integrity.

About the Pearl Initiative  
Pearl Initiative is the Gulf region’s leading independent, non-profit organisation working to promote the business case for a corporate culture of accountability and transparency. Established in 2010 by regional business leaders in cooperation with the United Nations Office for Partnerships, the Pearl Initiative is the only private, non-profit Gulf business network to receive special consultative status from the United Nations Economic and Social Council. The Pearl Initiative runs a series of corporate governance related programmes, including Anti-Corruption Best Practices, Diversity in Business Leadership, Governance in MSMEs, Governance in Family Firms, Governance in Tech, and Governance in Philanthropy. The organisation also conducts locally relevant research, hosts workshops and executive education training sessions, and convenes business leaders, policymakers, students, and non-profit executives to encourage a proactive approach to implementing best practices in the workplace across the Gulf region.
 
About the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF)
Founded in 1996, ADMAF is one of the first cultural organisations in the Arabian Gulf. Pioneering new artistic practices, it seeks to deepen global cross-cultural dialogue and inspire a renewed interest in the creativity of the UAE and Arab world. Often in partnership with leading national and international institutions, it delivers multidisciplinary initiatives for people of all ages, backgrounds and nationalities through the Abu Dhabi Festival, year-round youth platforms and community programmes.
 
For more information, please visit ADMAF website at: www.admaf.org.

• Over 400 students joined Pearl Initiative’s virtual Business Pledge session in collaboration with the University of Bahrain.
• The session highlighted the critical role of strong governance in building a sustainable and responsible business future.
• In the past 5 years, Pearl Initiative has engaged more than 27,000 students across the region through its Business Pledge programme.
• These collaborations reflect Pearl Initiative’s commitment to equipping the next-gen leaders with the values and guidance needed for ethical, long-term success.

Over 400 university students came together on 7 October 2025 for a dynamic virtual Business Pledge session, to explore the principles of ethical leadership and accountability, marking a successful collaboration between Pearl Initiative and the University of Bahrain.

The event is part of Pearl Initiative’s Business Pledge Programme, which aims to instil values of ethics, accountability, and strong governance into the minds of future business leaders, highlighting the Gulf region’s growing commitment to governance education.

Pearl Initiative, a non-profit organisation focused on strengthening corporate governance in the Gulf region, remains committed to fostering awareness and accountability among future business leaders.

Over the past 5 years, Pearl Initiative has engaged with more than 27,000 students across the Gulf region, underscoring its commitment to cultivating ethical leadership through corporate governance among the future business leaders.

The Business Pledge Programme by Pearl Initiative was launched in 2017 in partnership with the United Nations Global Compact during the Regional Forum for Sustainability in Action. It is designed to spotlight the private sector’s role in driving responsible and sustainable growth in the Gulf. Through a series of interactive sessions with universities across the region, the initiative seeks to embed ethical leadership and sound corporate governance practices into the mindset of the next generation.

The University of Bahrain session featured Noor Bukamal, Director of Corporate Governance & Board Secretary at Beyon, Bahrain. Noor delivered an insightful presentation on the fundamentals and significance of corporate governance, underscoring its role in ensuring accountability, transparency, and ethical decision-making. She clarified the distinction between governance and compliance, highlighting governance as a proactive and strategic approach, in contrast to the reactive nature of compliance.

A key focus of the discussion was the connection between Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles and sustainable business operations, with governance presented as the enabler of sustainability. Noor also provided an overview of Beyon’s corporate governance and ESG initiatives, including its alignment with 11 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. She highlighted flagship programmes such as the Green Energy Programme and the Sustainability Innovation Hub, exemplifying how companies in the Gulf are embedding ESG into core business strategies.

The session concluded with a powerful message: the value of good governance in fostering long-term growth, building long-lasting trust, and creating shared value for both businesses and society.

Pearl Initiative welcomes expressions of interest from universities and companies across the Gulf region to partner on co-hosting future Business Pledge sessions. Through such collaboration, organisations have the opportunity to contribute to shaping the next generation of ethical business leaders, while strengthening their commitment to governance, accountability, and sustainable growth in the region.
  
About the Pearl Initiative  
Pearl Initiative is the Gulf region’s leading independent, non-profit organisation working to promote the business case for a corporate culture of accountability and transparency. Established in 2010 by regional business leaders in cooperation with the United Nations Office for Partnerships, the Pearl Initiative is the only private, non-profit Gulf business network to receive special consultative status from the United Nations Economic and Social Council. The Pearl Initiative runs a series of corporate governance related programmes, including Anti-Corruption Best Practices, Diversity in Business Leadership, Governance in MSMEs, Governance in Family Firms, Governance in Tech, and Governance in Philanthropy. The organisation also conducts locally relevant research, hosts workshops and executive education training sessions, and convenes business leaders, policymakers, students, and non-profit executives to encourage a proactive approach to implementing best practices in the workplace across the Gulf region.
 

Dubai, UAE – 18 September 2025 – Pearl Initiative hosted a high-level dialogue in Dubai this week, bringing together global thought leaders, philanthropic institutions, and cross-sector stakeholders for a solutions-driven discussion on the role of governance in addressing global health crises.

Titled ‘Governance for Resilient Health Systems’, the event explored how ethical, transparent, and accountable governance frameworks should support every effort to build sustainable and equitable health systems, particularly as the world faces overlapping crises including climate shocks, conflict, and forced displacement.

As one example, 400 natural disasters struck in 2023 alone, each one stretching fragile health systems closer to breaking point. Yet while such crises are intensifying, global health aid is projected to fall from $80.3 billion in 2021 to $38.4 billion by 2025, highlighting the urgent need for philanthropic funding to be governed strategically and deployed transparently.

Pearl Initiative’s convening featured four high-level panels, each addressing a critical dimension of health system resilience through the lens of governance and strategic philanthropy. Among the leaders who took part in the discussions were representatives from the International Rescue Committee (IRC), UNHCR, WHO Foundation, International Medical Corps, National Multiple Sclerosis Society, and Nabta Health. The sessions explored health service delivery in fragile contexts, long-term infrastructure investment, equitable access, and the global mental health gap, driving dialogue on how governance can enable more effective and accountable responses.

The day’s discussions underscored the need for strategic philanthropy that prioritises long-term investment, ethical innovation, and equitable response. Speakers emphasised trust-based funding in crises settings, the role of governance in expanding health infrastructure, and the need for ethical oversight in digital health solutions. Speakers warned that while mental health drains over $1 trillion from the global economy each year, it remains dangerously underfunded, particularly in regions where stigma and lack of culturally appropriate solutions leave millions without care. Transparency, local leadership, and accountability were reaffirmed as essential pillars of resilient health systems.

Reflecting on the event, Ralph Choueiri, Executive Director of Pearl Initiative, remarked:
"Governance is the foundation of every sustainable system, and not an optional add-on. In global health especially, philanthropy must shift from reactive giving to strategic investment, guided by ethics, accountability, and a long-term commitment to impact that improves lives. Fragmented or short-term approaches are no longer sufficient in the face of the complexity of today’s global health crises.”

Throughout the day, the dialogue reinforced the urgency of closer coordination between philanthropic actors, government, and civil society, and the importance of local leadership in building trust with affected communities, partners, and the wider public.

Through its Governance in Philanthropy Programme, Pearl Initiative continues to champion responsible giving, transparency, and collaborative governance models across the Gulf region and beyond, ensuring that every philanthropic contribution is both impactful and accountable.
 
ENDS 
​
About the Pearl Initiative 
The Pearl Initiative is the Gulf region’s leading independent, non-profit organisation working to promote the business case for a corporate culture of accountability and transparency. Established in 2010 by regional business leaders in cooperation with the United Nations Office for Partnerships, the Pearl Initiative is the only private, non-profit Gulf business network to receive special consultative status from the United Nations Economic and Social Council. The Pearl Initiative runs a series of corporate governance related programmes, including Anti-Corruption Best Practices, Diversity in Business Leadership, Governance in MSMEs, Governance in Family Firms, Governance in Tech, and Governance in Philanthropy. The organisation also conducts locally relevant research, hosts workshops and executive education training sessions, and convenes business leaders, policymakers, students, and non-profit executives to encourage a proactive approach to implementing best practices in the workplace across the Gulf region.

Jaipur Rugs, the globally renowned leader in handcrafted rugs and carpets, is deepening its presence in Dubai’s fast-growing commercial and hospitality sector by delivering bespoke flooring solutions that seamlessly blend artistry, functionality, and durability.

From boutique hotels to expansive commercial projects, Jaipur Rugs partners with designers, architects, and project managers to transform spaces through its Trade & Hospitality Program, a dedicated service offering tailored flooring solutions that meet the distinctive demands of high-impact environments. The curated collection ranges from artisanal rugs and hotel carpets to wall-to-wall installations, all customizable to reflect the identity and design narrative of each project.

“Your Project, Our Expertise” is more than a guiding principle—it is Jaipur Rugs’ commitment to working hand-in-hand with the design community to translate creative vision into reality. By providing personalized design services and precision installations, the brand ensures every space tells a story of sophistication and purpose.

Recent collaborations in Dubai have underscored Jaipur Rugs’ ability to deliver flooring solutions that go beyond aesthetics. Whether crafting warm and inviting rugs for intimate hospitality venues or creating durable, elegant carpets for bustling commercial hubs, every project is approached with a focus on exceptional design, superior quality, and long-lasting functionality.

“Dubai has established itself as a global hub for design and innovation. Our role is to provide flooring that not only enhances the visual identity of a project but also delivers on performance and sustainability,” said Yogesh Chaudhary, Managing Director of Jaipur Rugs. “With every rug, we bring artisanal craftsmanship into modern commercial and hospitality settings.”

As part of its long-term commitment to the region, Jaipur Rugs has reopened its renovated flagship store at Alserkal Avenue on September 1, 2025. The refreshed space is designed as both a gallery of artistry and a functional showcase, allowing designers, architects, and clients to experience firsthand how rugs can be integrated across diverse environments. The immersive setting demonstrates installation techniques, durability, and the impact of rugs in real-world applications—bridging creativity with practicality.

With its expanding Trade & Hospitality Program and the relaunch of its Alserkal Avenue store, Jaipur Rugs invites architects, designers, project managers, and hospitality leaders to explore bespoke flooring solutions that elevate every project.

For inquiries regarding flooring, installation, or custom rug solutions—or to book a visit to the newly renovated Alserkal Avenue store—industry professionals are encouraged to connect with Jaipur Rugs through its dedicated trade program or visit www.jaipurrugs.com for further information.

ENDS

About Jaipur Rugs
Founded in 1978, on the foundations of love and kindness, Jaipur Rugs is passionate about breathing new life into the ancient art of carpet weaving. They are elevating artisans to artists, to bring the world beautifully designed, meticulously handcrafted works of art in the form of rugs. Uniquely, they work in direct contact with a community of more than 40,000 artisans, learning from and nurturing each other to create and flourish as individuals. Jaipur Rugs has a global footprint, selling to over 90 countries, with stores in 7 Indian cities, 4 international stores, and a strong online retail presence. Every carpet produced by Jaipur Rugs is a blessing of love. With a range of more than 10,000 designs, working in collaboration with renowned global and local designers, in a range of fibers and weaves, everyone can find rugs that suit their space at Jaipur Rugs. 

Jaipur Rugs proudly announces the arrival of Majnun — an evocative and masterfully crafted rug collection by celebrated designer Pavitra Rajaram, now exclusively available at the Jaipur Rugs gallery in Alserkal Avenue, Dubai.

A poetic tribute to those who are “besotted, crazy in love,” Majnun draws from historic design legacies across the Indian Subcontinent. The collection is inspired by the ancient Silk Route and the cultures of Persia, China, and India, reimagined for a global audience. Every rug is a celebration of craftsmanship, storytelling, and soulful imperfection—woven with intention and emotion.

The collection features a range of breathtaking designs that blend history, culture, and symbolism. Arjumand evokes the legendary romance of Layla and Majnun through celestial garden imagery rooted in Mughal and Chinese influences. Sipahi reflects India’s colonial past with a bold, folk-inspired depiction of post-1857 uniforms, adapted to an Indian narrative. Bahaar reimagines traditional hunting scenes as peaceful forest landscapes, emphasizing harmony with nature. Sakya draws from ancient Buddhist and Hindu literature, symbolizing strength and wisdom through the Cintamani motif. Maryul, meanwhile, is a vibrant synthesis of Yarkandi traditions, adorned with geometric motifs, Buddhist flowers, and Chinese clouds—all representing happiness and prosperity.

Drawing from centuries-old design traditions, the collection also features motifs like the Cintamaṇi—a historic symbol often associated with wisdom, power, and prosperity across Asian cultures. Traditionally represented by three dots and wave-like forms, the motif adds a layer of artistic meaning and timeless elegance to the rugs. Its presence in Majnun reflects the collection’s intent to blend aesthetic beauty with cultural storytelling.

“Majnun is more than a collection—it is an emotion,” said Yogesh Chaudhary, Director of Jaipur Rugs. “It celebrates timeless love, ancient wisdom, and the extraordinary skill of our artisans. We’re thrilled to bring this collection to our gallery in Dubai, where design lovers can experience its magic up close.”

The Majnun collection is now available at Jaipur Rugs, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai. Whether you're a design aficionado, collector, or dreamer, this is an invitation to step into a world where stories are told through every knot and thread. For further information, visit www.jaipurrugs.com

ENDS

About Jaipur Rugs
Founded in 1978, on the foundations of love and kindness, Jaipur Rugs is passionate about breathing new life into the ancient art of carpet weaving. They are elevating artisans to artists, to bring the world beautifully designed, meticulously handcrafted works of art in the form of rugs. Uniquely, they work in direct contact with a community of more than 40,000 artisans, learning from and nurturing each other to create and flourish as individuals. Jaipur Rugs has a global footprint, selling to over 90 countries, with stores in 7 Indian cities, 4 international stores, and a strong online retail presence. Every carpet produced by Jaipur Rugs is a blessing of love. With a range of more than 10,000 designs, working in collaboration with renowned global and local designers, in a range of fibers and weaves, everyone can find rugs that suit their space at Jaipur Rugs. 

Jaipur Rugs, one of the world’s most prestigious names in handcrafted carpets, is proud to unveil its latest designer collaboration with internationally acclaimed Dutch designer Richard Hutten. The exclusive collection titled "Playing with Tradition" debuted at the Salone del Mobile 2025 in Milan and will soon be available at the Jaipur Rugs store in Dubai.

Known for his imaginative, bold, and playful design sensibility, Richard Hutten has earned global recognition for blending function with humor and unconventional form. With “Playing with Tradition,” Hutten pays homage to the centuries-old tradition of hand-knotted rugs while infusing them with a fresh, contemporary twist to make them relevant for future generations.
“This collection is both a tribute and a transformation,” says Richard Hutten. “By adding playful elements to traditional motifs, I want to preserve the essence of craftsmanship while inspiring a new way of experiencing these heirlooms. The collection is about merging two worlds — the classic and the contemporary — into something unexpected and joyful.”

The "Playing with Tradition" collection features nine stunning rugs, each handcrafted in Rajasthan, India, by master artisans. The designs use traditional patterns as a base canvas, enlivened with imaginative "add-ons" that reflect Hutten’s distinct design philosophy. From whimsical motifs to bold architectural influences, every piece is a celebration of storytelling through design.

Among the standout pieces is Confetti 1 and Confetti 2, which capture the spirit of celebration. Inspired by the vibrant Holi festival of India, Hutten imagined colorful confetti scattered across a traditional rug — turning the pieces into joyful works of art. The rugs blend traditional floral and vine motifs with bursts of color, symbolizing optimism and happiness.

Squares offers a stunning juxtaposition of age-old craftsmanship and modern geometry. Traditional patterns form the foundation, while colorful square motifs interrupt the surface in a contemporary, eye-catching manner. The result is a dynamic fusion of heritage and modernity.
In Color Blocks and Blue Box, Hutten plays with architectural elements. The former features simple, 3D-inspired blocks set against a classic backdrop, creating an architonic contrast, while the latter draws inspiration from Dutch Delft Blue pottery. Crafted entirely in blue hues,
Blue Box creates a serene yet bold dialogue between Dutch and Indian cultural aesthetics.

Perspective explores visual illusion, with a subtle color palette and a design that draws the viewer’s eye to the center of the rug, no matter the angle. This piece reinterprets how space and form interact, bringing depth and dimension to any interior.

With Connect 1 and Connect 2, Hutten ventures into the realm of AI-assisted creativity. Using artificial intelligence to select and combine elements from two traditional rugs, the designer stitches the pieces together with an exaggerated needle motif — symbolizing unity and contrast. These unique creations also double as art pieces, ideal for both floor and wall display.

Finally, Bananas injects humor and whimsy into the collection. Inspired by the slapstick comedy of legends like Charlie Chaplin and Laurel & Hardy, the traditional rug design is overlaid with playful banana motifs — a bold and unexpected twist that stays true to Hutten’s philosophy of joyful design.
 
“We are thrilled to collaborate with Richard Hutten on this extraordinary collection,” said Yogesh Chaudhary, Managing Director, Jaipur Rugs. “His vision aligns beautifully with our mission of bringing art, design, and storytelling to life through handmade rugs. ‘Playing with Tradition’ is not just a collection — it's a bold celebration of heritage and innovation. We are proud to debut it on a global platform like Salone del Mobile before bringing it to our Dubai audience.”

Each rug in the collection has been meticulously hand-knotted, with the number of knots ranging up to 1.29 million, and crafted over 124 to 152 days by skilled artisans from villages across Rajasthan.

With its global debut at Salone del Mobile 2025, the launch of this collection further solidifies Jaipur Rugs' commitment to pushing the boundaries of design while preserving the integrity of Indian craftsmanship. The “Playing with Tradition” collection by Richard Hutten will be available soon at the Jaipur Rugs store in Dubai. For further information, visit www.jaipurrugs.com

Jaipur Rugs, a global leader in luxury handcrafted rugs, is proud to announce the launch of its exclusive Ramadan Gulmarg Collection. This limited-edition series celebrates the rich traditions of Ramadan while drawing deep inspiration from the breathtaking beauty of Kashmir. Inspired by the flowers and valleys of Kashmir, the collection promises an experiential journey into unmatchable design and elegance—where every piece reflects the soulful spirit of the Holy Month.

Drawing on the enchanting landscapes of Kashmir, the Ramadan Gulmarg Collection invites you to experience a realm where nature’s artistry meets traditional craftsmanship. As the saying goes, “If Kashmir is the heaven on earth, Gulmarg is the heaven in Kashmir.” This collection encapsulates that sentiment, evoking the vibrant hues of blooming flowers and the serene tranquillity of lush valleys. The designs are thoughtfully curated to capture the essence of a season that is both reflective and celebratory, infusing any space with a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Every rug in the collection is a masterpiece, meticulously handcrafted by skilled artisans who have honed their techniques over generations. The collection features intricate designs, including the timeless motif of lanterns that symbolize illumination and hope. The colour palette is a harmonious blend—deep blues reminiscent of twilight skies, glistening golds that evoke festive décor, and soft, earthy tones that mirror the natural beauty of Kashmiri landscapes. Each element is carefully chosen to transform a room into a sanctuary of elegance and serenity, perfect for gathering with loved ones during Iftar, Suhoor, or quiet moments of reflection.

“We are truly excited to launch our Ramadan Gulmarg Collection,” said Yogesh Chaudhary, Managing Director of Jaipur Rugs. “This collection is a heartfelt tribute to the beauty of Kashmir and the spirit of Ramadan. By blending the natural splendour of Kashmiri flowers and valleys with our legacy of traditional craftsmanship, we aim to offer our customers an immersive experience that transforms their living spaces into havens of warmth, comfort, and celebration during the Holy Month.”

Designed for those who value the intersection of art, culture, and spirituality, the Ramadan Gulmarg Collection is perfect for elevating home décor. Whether you are hosting festive gatherings or creating a peaceful retreat for prayer and contemplation, these handcrafted rugs offer a unique way to infuse your space with beauty and meaning.

The Ramadan Gulmarg Collection is now on display at Jaipur Rugs, Alserkal Avenue in Dubai. Customers are invited to visit the showroom to experience the collection firsthand or explore it online for a closer look at the detailed craftsmanship and design inspiration behind each piece. For further information, visit www.jaipurrugs.com

*ENDS*

​About Jaipur Rugs
Founded in 1978, on the foundations of love and kindness, Jaipur Rugs is passionate about breathing new life into the ancient art of carpet weaving. They are elevating artisans to artists, to bring the world beautifully designed, meticulously handcrafted works of art in the form of rugs. Uniquely, they work in direct contact with a community of more than 40,000 artisans, learning from and nurturing each other to create and flourish as individuals. Jaipur Rugs has a global footprint, selling to over 90 countries, with stores in 7 Indian cities, 4 international stores, and a strong online retail presence. Every carpet produced by Jaipur Rugs is a blessing of love. With a range of more than 10,000 designs, working in collaboration with renowned global and local designers, in a range of fibers and weaves, everyone can find rugs that suit their space at Jaipur Rugs.