Critical Design

Building on the magic of **DDX Dubai**, the Human Centred Design UAE Meetup is bringing together a special evening of lightning talks from some of the standout voices from the conference. DDX has quickly become one of the region’s most important gatherings for **design, product thinking, and innovation**. For those who attended, you know the energy. For those who missed it, this is your chance to experience some of that thinking and inspiration. This edition will also be **broadcast live internationally**, allowing the global design community to join the conversation. We are also excited to host the meetup in a **new venue for our community: Dtec at Dubai Silicon Oasis**, one of the region’s leading hubs for startups and innovation. 📍 Dtec, Dubai Silicon Oasis 🗓 9 April ⏰ 6:30 PM 🎥 In-person + Live Broadcast * Google Meet joining info * Video call link: https://meet.google.com/uij-fzca-ebu * Or dial: ‪(US) +1 408-909-8769‬ PIN: ‪588 196 874‬# * More phone numbers: https://tel.meet/uij-fzca-ebu?pin=8224850544892 ## What to Expect Across a series of fast-paced lightning talks, our speakers will explore a shared theme that runs through DDX: **How design is evolving in an era of AI, startups, complex systems, and new forms of leadership.** From product research and venture design to philosophy, enterprise design, and UX leadership, the evening will explore how designers can: • Shape better products and services • Navigate uncertainty and emerging technologies • Influence strategy and decision making • Design responsibly for people and society Each speaker will deliver a concise version of their DDX talk followed by networking with the community. ## Speakers **[Ana Sofia Gonzalez](https://www.linkedin.com/in/anasofiagonzalez/)** Principal Product Designer, Microsoft **[Leopold Ajami](https://www.linkedin.com/in/leopoldajami/)** Chief Influence Officer, Novel Philosophy Academy **[Joumana Mahmoud](https://www.linkedin.com/in/joumana-mahmoud/)** Head of Design, frog **[Chris Downes](https://www.linkedin.com/in/crash-s-downes-009852113/)** CoFounder, Scaleable Capital **[Arya Dris](https://www.linkedin.com/in/arya-d-s/)** Lead UX Designer, Mashreq Together, they bring perspectives from **big tech, fintech, venture capital, philosophy, product research, and design leadership**. ## Why Attend • Learn from leading designers and thinkers shaping the region • Get a taste of the ideas presented at **DDX Dubai** • Connect with the growing **UAE design and startup community** • Meet designers, researchers, founders, and innovators • Experience the HCD UAE Meetup community in a new venue ## Hosted by **Human Centred Design UAE Meetup** ## Venue Partner **Dtec – Dubai Technology Entrepreneur Campus** One of the largest tech startup campuses in the region. ## Sponsor Proudly supported by **aspexx.** ## Join Us Whether you are a designer, researcher, product manager, founder, or simply curious about the future of design, this will be a fantastic evening of learning, conversation, and connection.

Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance exercised to classic & modern tunes. Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, reshaped in Portugal & France. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions! AED 89 /1 class AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!) AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!) Book your spot NOW! 8 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn 16 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw For enquiries call/text 055 803 4003

Join us for a **FREE** Rope Yoga session! **Eternal Wellness Yoga Studio**. Rope Yoga uses wall support to safely deepen stretches, perform inversions with ease, and bring therapeutic **transformation** to your posture and spine. It's fantastic for all levels!

Try out this stunning fusion style of smooth sensual moves and funky transitions in an easy-to-follow dance to classic & modern tunes. Kizomba is one of the most popular genres of dance and music originating from Angola, and reshaped in Portugal. It is a derivative of semba, with a mix of Kilapanda and Angolan Merengue. New styles derived from the traditional kizomba were developed in Europe such as urban Kiz and Tarraxinha. Danced to sensual music, happy folklore or electronic trance and fuelled by passion; kizomba is one of the most versatile genres that will help you express your deepest emotions! AED 99 /1 class AED 599 /8 classes (monthly package!) AED 899 /16 classes (monthly package!) Book your spot NOW! 8 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/pabEn 16 classes https://moovnation.zbni.co/u/w7hbw For enquiries call/text 055 803 4003

If you have basic snorkelling equipment please bring along a costume( no board shorts ) . If you do not have kit then please let us know and we will try to source some for you. Fees to play are 60aed per person and you must be a good swimmer. The location is Al Nasr Swimming Pool near al nasr, Oud Metha Dubai lesiure and. Please contact Phil before coming 050848788

**PADI® Advanced Open Water Diver Course** _“ Seek Adventure , Explore More ”_ Continue your Scuba Diving journey with the PADI Advanced Open Water Diver course. Experience new adventures , Fine-tune your buoyancy skills, Build confidence in your navigation abilities, and Try new activities like _wreck diving , night diving, or drift diving._ Your Advanced certification opens the door to dive sites deeper than 18m/60ft and a variety of dive sites you will able to explore . **PADI AOW Course consists of Two main portions :** Much easier online study eLearning + Much enjoyable 5 Open Water Dives . On the first day, you will do three Shore Dives , then we arrange for another day for two Boat Dives , then we can celebrate. 🥳 You may schedule the sessions with your instructor during weekdays or weekends every day or on separate days as the conditions and time permits. **How can you start and what will you do :** ♡ Booking your course, provide your name , birth date, profile picture, and e-mail. ♡ Redeem the eLearning code received on your email , fill and sign the liability and medical release forms, and start the course in your preferred language. ♡ Your instructor will select with you what you need to read and arrange to schedule your first 3 dives. ♡ Then, you may schedule your other 2 dives on the nearest convenient date. ♡ Once successfully completed all of the requirements the instructor will happily process your certification. **Requirements , Terms and Conditions :** ● AOW students should have gained an Open Water Diver certificate, be at minimum age of 12 years old , be able to swim and medically fit for diving. ● The course is a complete package , with a duration of 2 days as described. _We are pleased to answer any further questions and inquiries regarding the course._ See Your Bubbles 🐬 & Many Thanks Sea Secrets Scuba seasecrets@yandex.com IG Sea_Secrets_Scuba https://instagram.com/sea_secrets_scuba?igshid=MzMyNGUyNmU2YQ== +971562050943

### **Where Dubai’s AI Innovators, Operators, and Talent Meet to Build the Future** Are you building in AI? Launching a tech startup? Exploring how AI can transform your business or job? Or looking to join the next big thing in AI? Join **AI Builders & Business Connect**, a **founder-first, operator-focused meetup** for Dubai’s tech and AI community. This isn’t your typical networking mixer—it’s a room full of **people building**, **people hiring**, and **people looking to grow**. *** ## **🗓️ Event Details** **When: 7:30 PM – 9:30 PM (Sharp) - Every Thursday** **Where:** Coffee & Sundries, First Floor (Above Carrefour), DIFC, Dubai **Entry: FREE**— we just ask that you support the venue by purchasing a coffee or some food. *** ## **🚀 What to Expect** This is for **doers, decision-makers, and tech talent ready to build:** ### **🔹 AI 60-Second Spotlight** Founders, job seekers, and partners get **60 seconds to introduce themselves**—no slides, no fluff. ### **🔹 Speed Collaboration Rounds** Quick, curated connections between **builders, investors, operators, and AI talent**. ### **🔹 Real Conversations, Real Opportunities** Whether you’re hiring, raising, building, or job hunting—this is where partnerships start. ### **🔹 Dubai & UAE Playbook** Hear practical tips from locals on how to **launch, hire, and scale tech ventures in the region.** *** ### 📋 Agenda * **7:30 – 8:00 PM** Introductions * **8:00 – 8:45 PM** Market research using different AI tools * **8:45 – 9:15 PM** Prototyping session on one selected idea * **9:15 PM onward** Networking ## **💡 Who Should Attend?** * **AI Founders & Startup Builders** * **Tech Entrepreneurs & SaaS Leaders** * **Investors scouting AI deals** * **Engineers, Developers & Product Leaders working in AI** * **Job Seekers & Operators looking to join AI and tech startups** * **Enterprise Innovators exploring AI use cases** *** ## **⚠️ Important** * **Your RSVP is a commitment**—let us know 24 hours in advance if plans change * **Doors close at 7:30 PM sharp**—no late entries *** ## **🌍 Hosted by Pradeep Valat** Startup advisor, investor, and AI business strategist helping founders unlock growth. LinkedIn: [linkedin.com/in/ivallat](https://linkedin.com/in/ivallat) WhatsApp: +971 529503315 *** ## **🔥 Why This Event?** Dubai’s AI and tech scene is booming—but it’s still about **who you know and who you build with.** This is where **startups meet talent, investors meet ideas, and builders find partners.** **Spots are limited. If you’re serious about AI, this is your room.** **By participating in AI Builders & Business Connect \| events\, you consent to the use of photos and videos captured during the event for promotional purposes\.**

We’ll be listening to a selected podcast /talk beforehand and then gathering to discuss, dissect, and share insights with like-minded people about the episode. Whether you’re actively working on your listening skills, love learning through podcasts, or simply enjoy exploring topics around design thinking, productivity, art, and culture, we are more than happy to have you. Podcast for this session: In our first session we’ll be breaking down our thoughts for the the following podcast. [Decoding Design Wisdom: 35 Years of Lessons from Apple, Disney & Beyond](https://youtu.be/X-83gvgVaWc?si=hOugsMYeJpU9xe6p) *Please note that RSVP’ing and listening to the podcast is mandatory before attending. Walk ins will not be allowed

Join Dubai Offroaders for an unforgettable weekend of camping, off-roading, and Jeep adventure in the Dubai desert! This event is perfect for off-road enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to advanced drivers. Get ready to explore the stunning desert landscape, tackle challenging terrains, and have fun with like-minded adventurers. Experience the thrill of driving your 4x4 through the sandy dunes, enjoy a BBQ under the starlit sky, and connect with fellow expats in Dubai who share your passion for off-road activities. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or a newbie looking to learn, this weekend trip promises an exciting blend of off-road driving, camping under the stars, and making unforgettable memories in the great outdoors. Don't miss out on this ultimate Dubai Offroaders experience!

A chill hangout for deep thinkers, curious minds, and lovers of raw, real conversations—with or without a drink in hand. No strict rules, no set topics—just a bunch of interesting people talking about life, beliefs, and everything in between. **Event flow** * Intro & icebreaker * One-on-one discussions * Group discussion * Mini activity **Who shows up?** Open-minded folks from all walks of life. Expect friendly debates, weird tangents, occasional cranks, and surprisingly smart convos. **Who is NOT invited?** * narrow-minded people (racists, sexists, judgmental, ...) * anyone trying to sell something * anyone looking for a hookup 💵 Fee: AED 30 - pay by [clicking here](https://pay.ziina.com/dsh/e73sWOArW) For details message us at [+971 50 355 1536](https://wa.me/+971503551536) **Quick etiquette tip:** Disagree freely, but respectfully. We’re here to learn from each other—not win arguments.

PLEASE REGISTER HERE, TO JOIN THIS EVENT, https://dubaioffroaders.com/web/ Checklist: a) Fully functional 4x4 vehicle with full tank of fuel. b) Air compressor in working condition. c) Recovery rope / strap. d) Compatible radio pre-programmed to DO frequencies. e) Refreshments for you and your passengers (if you have them). f) Offroad flag attached to vehicle. Etiquette: 1) Registering and not coming along may stop others from joining and is easily avoidable - so please be courteous and withdraw if you can't make it. 2) Be punctual. 3) Avoid bringing along unregistered participants without prior permission. Thank you for taking the time to read this and prepare properly - see you on the sand!

**What this is about?** This is a meetup group focused on AI. We meet every Saturday at 7:30pm at DIFC. Usually there are up to 30 people from different backgrounds, such as AI programmers, rocket engineers, physicists, marketing, designers, investors... But it's also meant for people who have no background in AI and are looking for more insight. This is a very casual group for everyone, no presentations, you can pitch your AI business idea or discuss your favorite Terminator movie. We meet at the Stage Area (next to S&C Music, see directions https://imgur.com/a/QIvYOvT ) above the Carrefour market at DIFC, just look for a group of people there without board games (if you see board games, that's another group). The group is free and there is no requirement to buy anything. There is free wifi. 📣 WhatsApp group for event updates (only mods can post): [https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjrVIJyxHbe9fUWoGLaJsZ](https://chat.whatsapp.com/JjrVIJyxHbe9fUWoGLaJsZ) 📍To get there: 🚇 Metro Station: Financial Centre Metro Station, 5 minutes walk, look for the Financial Centre exit sign. 🚗 Parking Options: Gate Avenue Parking is unfortunately under construction. Other options: Gate District Building 2: free underground parking from 6 pm onwards. \* Street Parking near Ritz Carlton: This is a paid parking option, conveniently located. \* Gate Avenue Open Parking: Present a purchase receipt for 4 hours of complimentary parking. 💡 **Note**: *You might see a few other Meetup pages with similar names - this one’s run by the folks actually hosting the weekly meetups and building the in-person community you’ve seen at DIFC.* *PS: We occasionally take group photos to capture good vibes and community spirit, by attending you're comfortable with casual group photos - feel free to step aside if you don't wish to be in them*

Location link https://maps.app.goo.gl/VRxURSYYQbUtohQX9 في كافيه ليالي القاهرة كل جمعة الساعة 6 مساءً لو نفسك تدخل عالم التمثيل، أو تطوّر ثقتك بنفسك، أو حتى تتعرف على ناس من ثقافات مختلفة… الورشة دي معمولة علشانك. ورشة التمثيل في ليالي القاهرة هي مزيج فريد بين: - التعرف على ناس من جنسيات وثقافات مختلفة في جو اجتماعي ممتع - العلاج بالفن والتعبير عن النفس بدون أحكام - اكتشاف جوانب جديدة جواك كل مرة - التعلّم العملي للتمثيل والوقوف أمام الكاميرا كصانع محتوى - إزاي تقدّم نفسك في أي إنترفيو بشكل احترافي وجذّاب - إزاي تكون مختلف وتشوف الدنيا من زاوية جديدة - إزاي تعبّر عن مشاعرك بصدق… تبكي، تفرح، تغضب، تحزن من غير ما حد يحكم عليك هتتعلّم كل ده على إيد مدرب ممثلين بخبرة 13 سنة ومخرج أفلام قصيرة وطويلة بخبرة 10 سنين ومخرج معتمد من وزارة الثقافة المصرية. 🎬 كل محاضرة = تجربة كاملة كل محاضرة منفصلة، ولكل واحدة ناتج فني… هتشارك في صناعة فيلم قصير من أول الفكرة لحد التنفيذ. 💰 السعر 50 درهم فقط للمحاضرة + مشروب 📞 للتواصل 0507016543 وهتلاقوا لينك جروب الواتساب الخاص بالورشة… https://chat.whatsapp.com/C27ZhJVENqy5OPqYki049j مستنيكم يوم الجمعة الساعة 6 في ليالي القاهرة – الديرة. At Layali Al Qahira Café Every Friday at 6 PM If you’ve ever wanted to step into the world of acting, boost your confidence, or simply connect with people from different cultures… this workshop is made for you. Our Acting Workshop at Layali Al Qahira offers a unique blend of: - Meeting people from diverse nationalities and backgrounds - Emotional healing through art and self‑expression - Discovering something new about yourself every single session - Learning how to act and perform confidently in front of the camera as a content creator - Presenting yourself professionally in interviews - Seeing the world differently and embracing your own uniqueness - Expressing your emotions freely — cry, laugh, get angry, feel joy or sadness without judgment or restrictions You’ll learn all of this with a professional acting coach with 13 years of experience, and a film director with 10 years of experience in short and feature films, and officially certified by the Egyptian Ministry of Culture. 🎬 Each session is a full experience Every class is independent, and each one ends with a creative outcome… You’ll participate in making a short film from concept to execution. 💰 Price Only 50 AED per session + a drink 📞 Contact 0507016543 You’ll also find the WhatsApp group link for the workshop…https://chat.whatsapp.com/C27ZhJVENqy5OPqYki049j We’re waiting for you this Friday at 6 PM at Layali Al Qahira – Deira.

We’ll start by introducing ourselves and building a supportive, accountable community. Work on anything you like—products, ideas, design, code, or even fun monetization projects, collabs, or something you’re passionate about. During breaks, we’ll share genuine feedback and grow together beyond generic career paths. Think of it as a weekend café collab—a mini hackathon with that fun “we-miss-college” vibe, but as adults. A rough plan: • Work at your own pace and stay for as long as you like. • Take short breaks every 45 minutes to connect, share what you’re working on, and unwind together. • Stay connected to your why and learn to offer our efforts to the Divine/Universe/Faith without attachment to immediate results. • Build a supportive, accountable community—helping each other stay on track (Collabs may happen!) Location- JLT

We meet to learn and practice American Sign Language and to grow our familiarity with Deaf culture. Facilitated by hearing folks (with a connection to a professional interpreter) using Deaf-created content. People of all ASL skill levels are welcome! As we learn, we hope to connect more with the Deaf community in Central Ohio. Join us as you're able! Come regularly or just once - whatever you're looking for! Each meetup will explore different topics related to ASL/Deaf culture, and will feature time to practice conversation with one another. Just bring yourself and a willingness to learn!

Colombus Code & Coffee is thrilled to partner with Central Ohio Azure to put on the global Azure community day! RSVP here: https://www.meetup.com/central-ohio-azure/events/313484939/ View the session lineup and speakers at [Global Azure Columbus 2026](https://coazure.github.io/cbus-global-azure-2026/) On **Saturday, April 18, 2026**, the Azure Columbus Meetup, DevOps Meetup, and Code and Coffee Meetup are hosting our local edition of Global Azure 2026. This is a free, community-driven event packed with learning, networking, and all things Microsoft Azure. Whether you’re building modern cloud-native apps, experimenting with AI agents, deploying containers, automating infrastructure, or just beginning your Azure journey, this event is for you! **What to Expect** * Engaging technical sessions * Real-world Azure architecture & cloud-native patterns * AI, agents, automation, and modern DevOps * Food and drinks (because learning burns calories) * Time to connect with fellow engineers, architects, and cloud enthusiasts **Who Should Attend?** * Software engineers (any language, any stack) * Cloud architects * DevOps engineers * Data professionals * AI explorers * Platform builders * Anyone who loves solving hard problems with great tools If you build, deploy, automate, scale, monitor, or optimize in Azure, you’ll feel right at home. **Why Global Azure?** Global Azure is a worldwide community event where Azure user groups host learning sessions on the same day across the globe. It’s grassroots. It’s technical. It’s practical. And it’s powered by people who genuinely love sharing what they’ve learned. And yes, it’s free to attend!

Pay attention! We’re delaying a week for those of you who may be on Spring break and/or celebrating the holiday. Ok, no pancakes, but waffles-a-plenty. Join the local UX and Digital Design community for a casual monthly breakfast. Look for us upstairs!

AI is changing how art is made. But when does it stop being your work and start being the machine’s? This month we're going to be doing a panel with with digital image, music, and written word artists, talking about at what point, while using AI in the creation process, does the work become not the artist creation? We encourage audience participation during this event that will be moderated by Chris Slee. Whether you’re deep in the field or just getting curious, come connect with others building and exploring AI in Columbus. Sponsored by [Transform Labs](https://www.transformlabs.com/services) Sign up also accessible via [Transform Labs Luma](https://luma.com/55umjqta)

**TBA**

The Fellowship of the Star Schema: Transforming OLTP Data for Power BI One does not simply build reports on OLTP data. Join us on an epic journey from the depths of raw, normalized tables to the shining halls of a well-modeled star schema fit for Power BI greatness. We will demystify the differences between OLTP and OLAP, walk through star schema vs snowflake (and why Power BI has a clear favorite), and show you the compression differences between normalized and columnar storage that will make you never look at an OLTP model the same way again. We will cover the different types of dimensions, when to use them, and how to handle Slowly Changing Dimensions without losing your mind. You will leave knowing exactly how to identify a bad model, how to convert OLTP data into a clean star schema, and how to forge relationships that rule them all. Whether you are a data wizard, a curious hobbit, or somewhere in between, your models will never be the same.

**Important time note:** Please plan on arriving between 5:30 and 6:00 as the elevators lock after 6 and you'll need to message us and we'll need to come get you. The building address is 4450 Bridge Park The entrance is 6620 Mooney St, Suite 400 You will need to scan your ID at the door to get a visitor badge. **Abstract** GitHub Copilot is powerful, but what if you could scale from a solo AI assistant to an entire team of specialized agents working in parallel? This session introduces Squad: an open-source framework for multi-agent orchestration that lets you define teams of AI agents with specific roles, responsibilities, and expertise. We'll progress from Copilot basics to the Copilot CLI, explore how Agents add autonomy, and see how Instructions and Skills let you customize agent behavior. Then, the climax: a live demo where a Squad team of 3 agents (Lead, Developer, Tester) stands up and builds a working application in real-time, showcasing true multi-agent collaboration. Whether you're new to AI or exploring how to scale your use of Copilot, this session will show you what's possible when agents work as a team. **YouTube Link** TBD