What Went Down at IQOS x OFF REUNION

As part of Dubai Design Week, the annual exhibition hosted in D3, the Dazed MENA team dropped into the IQOS’ Sensorium Piazza at Off-Reunion — not only for our favorite Palestinian Rapper Shabdjeed’s crowd-shaking rager — but also to explore digital art by Italian homeware icon Stefano Seletti. The winter breeze and creative buzz made Wednesday night one we’re happy not to have missed.

Here’s what went down last night:

REUNION DXB was lit, more than once

The limited capacity gallery space overflowed with energy, and bodies too. Lines formed well before doors even opened and the space was packed by 9 pm. With light installations as seating, and an immersive sound system, every corner of the room became sensory. A look around revealed people applying glitter face paint in Mike Tyson-esque positions, sparkling like the bubbles in our glasses. The dress code was chic and understated, basically dancing clothes, for people who jump, put their hands up, swayers, breakers and shakers. There was a lot to take in, and we loved it.

The art community showed up

Some of the region’s coolest artists made the list. From photographers, directors, writers and of course designers, some even exhibiting their own art for Design Week in the same place. And between the patio area overlooking D3’s multiple installations, surrounded by the vibrant atmosphere, everyone caught up on their latest projects. Leading up to the big performance, crowds danced to DJ Shadi Megallaa’s lively set, finding new friends at every corner — it truly felt like the start of a new creative season.

IQOS sensorium got us all buzzed

The collaboration yields a new addition to IQOS’ well-rounded product line: the Seletti Limited Edition Collection straddles the nexus between the latest tech and artistic taste, combining Seletti’s bold geometry, in stark black and gold lines, with the brand’s sleek design.

Shabjdeed’s set, as usual, kept the night alive

Beloved Palestinian rapper Oday Abbas, known as Shabjdeed, alongside his creative partner, producer and BLTNM records co-founder Al Nather, dropped the most anticipated set of the season. Five songs that we all knew the words to. Jumped so high that security had to jump higher. Cradled in lights, Shabjdeed’s voice beat like a heart. It wasn’t just a head nod or wrist flicking, it was the crowd shouting back in unison, jumping. Fans emerged from the crowd sweaty, eyes wide open, talking with their hands like can you believe it — he played my song!