Open Call for IMA Design Award 2026 Seeks Arab World Designers

The Institut du monde arabe (IMA) in Paris has initiated an open call for its fourth IMA Design Award, inviting submissions until 10 May 2026. This program is aimed at both emerging and established designers from Arab League countries or those active in the region, focusing on creativity, craftsmanship, and innovative use of materials. Eligible projects must be developed between 1 September 2024 and 30 April 2026, with participation open to nationals from 22 nations, including Algeria, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates. The awards comprise four categories: the Emerging Talent Award, the Contemporary Craftsmanship Award, the Impact Award sponsored by Arab Bank Switzerland, and the Grand Prize. A shortlist of finalists will be revealed in May by a panel that includes design expert François Leblanc di Cicilia, entrepreneur Ismail Tazi, and IMA's cultural programmes director Frédérique Mehdi. The jury, led by Egyptian architect Shahira Fahmy, will recognize finalists at a ceremony in September, coinciding with Paris Design Week, followed by an exhibition of the projects.