Canadian University Dubai (CUD) has been officially chosen to host the 2026 Cumulus Conference, a significant event in the fields of art, design, and media education. This prestigious five-day global summit will occur in November 2026 and will be organized by the University’s School of Architecture and Interior Design. The theme for this year’s conference is “Design(ed) Visions of Tomorrow | The Future of Human Condition.”

The 2026 Cumulus Dubai Conference aims to address contemporary issues such as climate disruption, social uncertainty, and rapid technological advancements. It will gather international designers, educators, and researchers to explore how design can play a pivotal role in fostering regenerative, inclusive, and ethically driven futures. The event will focus on how design can influence human life and living systems across various dimensions, including physical, social, cultural, and ecological aspects.

The conference will feature a diverse program that includes high-level panel discussions, exhibitions, hands-on workshops, and collaborative think tanks. These activities will span multiple disciplines, including architecture, the arts, technology, education, and the humanities. Participants will engage with both theoretical and practical approaches to redefine the responsibilities of design in addressing global challenges. Six thematic pillars will guide the discussions, emphasizing diversity and inclusion, human well-being, and the effects of emerging technologies.

The success of this global initiative is attributed to the strategic support from CUD’s key partners in the UAE. In line with the nation’s vision for innovation and sustainability, CUD is collaborating with Dubai Economy and Tourism, RIBA Gulf Chapter, SEE Institute, and Dubai Holding Entertainment. Their contributions are expected to significantly enhance the conference’s scope, reach, and impact at both regional and international levels.

Massimo Imparato, Dean of the School of Architecture and Interior Design at CUD, expressed his honor in hosting this influential gathering. He stated that the conference challenges participants to radically rethink the systems, tools, and narratives that shape design disciplines. He added that Dubai exemplifies the urgency and aspiration of future-making, providing an exceptional backdrop for this global discussion.

Eija Salmi, Secretary General of the Cumulus Association, noted that the organization aims to enhance accessibility and promote inclusivity. She highlighted Dubai’s role as an ideal bridge between Africa and Asia, serving as a platform for future-driven innovation.

The Cumulus Association, founded in 1990, is the only global network focused on education and research in art, design, and media. It comprises over 395 member institutions across 71 countries and is dedicated to fostering collaboration and advancing design thought leadership. The 2026 Cumulus Dubai Conference will be curated with the assistance of a distinguished scientific committee made up of academics and industry professionals from the UAE and worldwide.

About Canadian University Dubai: Established in 2006, CUD is located in City Walk, Dubai, and is recognized as the top university in the city according to the QS World University Rankings 2025. The institution prides itself on its diverse environment, with students from over 120 nationalities, and emphasizes sustainable development principles in its education. CUD offers more than 30 specialized majors and graduate programs, all inspired by the Canadian educational model, facilitating opportunities for students in research, entrepreneurship, and employment in Canada.