Critical Design

Building on the magic of DDX Dubai, the HCD UAE Meetup is bringing together another special evening of lightning talks in Abu Dhabi 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. 📍 The Bridge Welness Hub, Abu Dhabi 🗓 23 April ⏰ 6:30 PM 🎥 In-person + Live Broadcast \`(details announced closer to the event) ## 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 **Elizabeth Churchill** Professor & Department Chair, MBZUAI **Erik Spiekermann** Founder, MetaDesign, FontShop, Edenspiekermann **Jue Lu** Director of Visitor Experience, Department of Culture & Tourism Abu Dhabi **Jonathan Steingiesser** HCD Founder / Innovation Lead at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority **Chris Clark** HCD Co-organiser / Innovation Lead at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority **Luis Ouriach** Design Advocate, Figma Together, they bring perspectives from big tech, government, design leadership, product and research, cultural experience, and global design advocacy. ## 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 community** • Meet designers, researchers, founders, and innovators • Experience the HCD UAE Meetup community ## Hosted by **Human Centred Design UAE Meetup** ## 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.

Confimed trip ongoing Ready to trade the city for cliffs, pools, and pure adrenaline? This is your ticket to an epic weekend of abseiling, canyoning, swimming, and off-road adventure deep inside the Hajar Mountains. It’s wild, it’s fun, it’s challenging—and honestly, it’s the kind of trip you’ll be talking about long after it ends. Come for the adventure, stay for the memories. Duration: Friday – Saturday Starting Point: Muscat Difficulty Level: ★★★★★ (5/5 – Extreme) Recovery Day: Sunday (you’ll need it) The Concept Hidden deep within the rugged landscapes of the Mountains, this canyon only reveals its true beauty after rainfall—a rare event in Oman. Unlike permanent wadis such as other oman wadis, this route transforms temporarily: Dry rock corridors become flowing water systems Natural basins turn into deep turquoise pools The canyon becomes alive for a short window only Miss it—and it’s gone. Cost : 1280 aed ( included 1 night muscat hotel, food, all equipment required, of road vechile transport between in and exit points, Certified guides The Day 1 – Friday | Into the Wild 05:00 AM – Departure from Muscat Early start. Convoy energy. This is not a casual trip—it’s a mission. 07:30 AM – Off-Road Entry We leave the asphalt behind and enter rugged terrain shaped by flash floods and erosion over thousands of years. 09:00 AM – Canyon Entry & Safety Setup Harnesses on. Helmets secured. Final briefing. From here—you are fully committed. Phase 1: Vertical World Technical abseiling down multiple canyon drops Rock scrambling and tight navigation Descending through dramatic rock formations Phase 2: Water & Pools Swimming across deep natural pools Floating through narrow canyon corridors Optional controlled jumps into clear basins These waters appear only after rainfall—clear, fresh, and surreal. 03:30 PM – Deep Canyon Camp Camp is set in total isolation, surrounded by towering canyon walls. Tents setup Fire preparation Time to rest and absorb the experience Evening – The Wild Camp Experience Sunset between cliffs Simple camp dinner Silence, stars, and stories With no light pollution, the night sky here is one of the clearest in Oman. Day 2 – Saturday | The Exit Challenge 06:00 AM – Canyon Wake-Up Cool air. Still water. First light hitting the cliffs. 07:00 AM – Breakfast & Pack Up Refuel. The toughest stretch is ahead. Phase 3: The Final Push Advanced abseiling sections Long and technical hiking terrain Final swimming passages and climbs This is where endurance, focus, and teamwork come together. 01:00 PM – Canyon Exit You’ve completed something few ever attempt. 02:30 PM – Return to Vehicles 06:00 PM – Arrival Back to Muscat The Experience A complete adventure package: Abseiling Canyoning Swimming Hiking Off-roading Wild camping All in one intense, unforgettable journey. Important Notes Extreme difficulty (5/5) Requires strong physical fitness Must be comfortable with heights and swimming Not suitable for beginners Final Thought In Oman, many wadis are beautiful. Few are challenging. Almost none offer this level of rarity, intensity, and reward. This is not a trip you repeat. This is a story you carry. Ummq Bear Adventure — Do it once. Remember it forever

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 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

Using New Technology to Improve Trust from the Government Blockchain Association Webinar at Noon April 23. GBA Webinar for Civil Servants from local to state officials including those in uniform on how to use New Technology to improve trust in government Thu, Apr 23, 2026, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (EDT/NYC time zone) https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85762266787?pwd=ApBzwTv1QvG9qEnT5R8a5aNf3jae89.1 Join the Government Blockchain Association (GBA) for a webinar, "From Transparency to Trust in Public Governance," tailored for elected, appointed, sworn, or employed government workers. Discover how blockchain technology can revolutionize your work by boosting: \- Election integrity \- Ensuring representative transparency \- Strengthening fiscal responsibility \- Most importantly\, making your job easier than ever\. Why Attend? Learn practical ways to leverage cutting-edge tools to drive efficiency, solve critical challenges, and build public trust all from the comfort of your desktop or phone. CIVIL SERVANTS including those in uniform at all levels of government and all branches of service. Free Access: No cost to join the webinar or the GBA! Actionable Insights: See real-world applications of blockchain for local governance. Ongoing Education: Gain exclusive access to free, continuous training with GBA membership. Critical opportunity to be more efficient, accessible, transparent and to make your job simpler! Presenters include Jonathan Baha'i Architecting Sovereign Infrastructure for Government & Enterprise \| Founder: Toto & Woof \| Owner: The Diefenbaker \| SSI & Civic Trust Layers Senator Michael "Big Mike" Fesi Louisiana State Senator for District 20 Gerard Dache GBA Founder & Executive Director Nimit Sawhney Entrepreneur, Co-Founder of Voatz, Cybersecurity/AI/ML Engineer Thu, Apr 23, 2026, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM (EDT/NYC time zone) https://us06web.zoom.us/j/85762266787?pwd=ApBzwTv1QvG9qEnT5R8a5aNf3jae89.1 For More Information Contact: Bob Miko, bmiko@pacificdialogue.com 203 278 2803 About GBA The Government Blockchain Association (GBA) is a nonprofit (501c6) organization committed to advancing blockchain technology standards, facilitating industry education, and ensuring a trusted, secure ecosystem for blockchain solutions. For more information, visit https://gbaglobal.org/. For more information contact Bob Miko, bmiko@pacificdialogue.com 203 378 2803.

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

Calling all Fashion and Arts aficionados Start your morning off with a power-packed networking event designed exclusively for professionals in the legal, finance, and business service and consulting industries. This event offers a unique opportunity to connect with fellow professionals from Fashion or the Arts. Whether you're a model, a Designer, a lighting specialist, a venue host, a fabric supplier, an artist, or a musician, this is the perfect platform to expand your network, foster valuable relationships and discover potential collaboration opportunities. It’s also an ideal environment to deepen your understanding of how these fields complement each other and drive business success. The session format is designed to be systematic and effective, guaranteeing efficiency and delivering results. It benefits even those who may not feel naturally at ease in networking environments. Enjoy your favourite morning drinks and tasty breakfast treats as you network and connect with like-minded professionals in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. This event is open to both seasoned practitioners and aspiring professionals in the law, finance, and business consulting industries. We look forward to seeing you at this inspiring networking event, where the power of collaboration and knowledge-sharing awaits. * Find clients * Build your contacts * Find suppliers * Find resources At Super Connect, we follow a comfortable system that generates real results in a fun and structured environment. [See here how it works](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9x6UUk4t7JU) In our previous sessions some of our attendees shared why they love SBC LIVE Super Connect: [Neil Hamp Adams](https://youtube.com/shorts/BAw4KYqLbag?feature=share) [Abhishek Chatterjee](https://youtube.com/shorts/BAw4KYqLbag?feature=share) [Dina Chautan](https://youtube.com/shorts/Np7KR6RRdls?feature=share) [Mandy Priestly](https://youtube.com/shorts/Ls99W3Zep74?feature=share) [Yujin Koola](https://www.youtube.com/shorts/_6pi1mIJZFY) There is a fee for this event because we find it attracts more motivated and successful type business owners, and let's face it, we all want to network up and not down! Only 195aed +VAT There is no entrance on the door because we prepare in advance to maximise the effect and send tips. Details and [book your place ](https://www.strategicbusinessconnect.com/offers/QaHaomYo/checkout)

**\*This is a *paid* event. RSVP on Meetup is not enough — to confirm your place, please complete your registration through our website.\*** Running since 2008, The Desert Monologues has seen countless Dubai actors (and non-actors) step onto our stage and into the spotlight. The Playhouse’s flagship 6 week acting workshop for adults will explore script-work, improvisation and characterisation. Our experienced instructor will teach you how to get the best out of your voice and improve your stagecraft. Choose your own monologue piece, design your costume, sound and lighting under the guidance of our instructor and finally step into the spotlight on our stage! This is a diverse course that is designed to be challenging and fun. Whether you are an experienced actor wanting some stage practice in a professional theatre or a beginner wanting to improve your confidence and meet like-minded individuals – this is the course for you! [Register here](https://courtyardplayhouse.com/event/desert-monologues-scripted-acting-for-adults-april-2026-sun-530pm/)

**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*

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!

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.

You don’t need more ideas. You need the right space to start. ✍️ Introducing **The Writers’ Room by Primexar** — a focused writing experience designed to help you turn your ideas into real progress. 📚 Share your idea 🗣️ Get real feedback ✍️ Sit down and actually write No distractions. Just momentum. ✨ **Be part of our first session — April 24th** 🚨 Limited spots 60 AED Early Bird 85 AED General Admission * **This is a paid event. Payment is required to confirm your spot. You will receive the payment link after RSVP** * **This is not a teaching workshop. It’s a guided writing space with feedback and support.**

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. This week we'll be discussing the following podcast on Branding in 2026: [How to Brand in 2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3C2qJT_bQc&list=PLwlsYgDem6YWpYiHl8vRkbio-t7Cng5Go&index=10) \*Please note that RSVP’ing and listening to the podcast is mandatory before attending. Walk ins will not be allowed

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!

Join other experienced and aspiring agile coaches and professionals to: * develop and practice your coaching skills in a peer-to-peer environment * share current successes and challenges in your work environment and get support from each other * learn from each other, build better relationships and experiment with new ideas ***NOTE:*** Pre-registration is required for this event. **Please arrive 10 minutes early** to check in at the security desk.

Walk for Children - 2026 Save Soil Walkathon in Columbus 🌍 Over 52% of the world soil is degraded and scientists warn we may have only a few decades of fertile soil left. As Sadhguru shares, soil is a living system—and when it degrades, our food, health, and future are at risk. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyT-6qiubd0 🚶‍♂️🌎This Earth Day, Join the Walk for Children-2026 SaveSoil 5K Walkathon here in Columbus and help raise awareness about soil for the future of our children! Every step you take helps: ✔️ 1. Raise awareness in your communities about protecting and restoring soil. ✔️ 2. Supports sustainable food systems. ✔️ 3. Helps secure our children’s future. 📅 Date: April 26, 2026 📍 Location: Scioto Audubon Metro Park Check-in address 400 W Whittier St, Columbus, OH 43215 ⏰ Time: 8:30 a.m. check-in event starts at 9:30 a.m. 👉 Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/walk-for-children-2026-save-soil-walkathon-in-columbus-registration-1986596534713?aff=oddtdtcreator 👉🏼Free and Open to All. Share this message and bring your neighbours, friends & family along to celebrate our planet! Let’s make it happen!

**TBA**

**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

**TBA**

A WiA Collective Wisdom Exchange At the start of this year, we gathered to look back, set intentions, and imagine the next chapter. This is the follow-up. Not a check-in. Not a progress report. A small, facilitated circle to reconnect with what you said mattered — and honestly explore what’s actually happening now. Together, we’ll explore: • What you intended at the start of this year - and what that looks like three months in • What’s surprised you, supported you, or shifted • What the next chapter needs now that you know what you know If you were at our January gathering, bring whatever you made or wrote — your word, your artifact, your intention. We’ll look at it with fresh eyes. If this is your first time, you belong here too. You’ll start where we all started: with what’s true right now. Optional art materials will be available for anyone who wants to reflect creatively alongside conversation. If you brought something home from January, you’re warmly invited to bring it back. The intention is the same as always: everyone leaves feeling more clear, more connected, and a little lighter. Space is intentionally limited to keep the experience intimate. What to Expect • A small, welcoming circle (not a large meetup) • Structured conversation so everyone has space to speak • Reflection, listening, and lived experience — not advice-giving • Optional creative reflection alongside conversation • A calm, supportive environment Who This Is For Women and underrepresented folks working in or around agile, product, technology, leadership, or organizational change — especially those looking for honest conversation and community beyond frameworks and buzzwords. Good to Know • No preparation required • If you attended in January, we invite you to bring anything you created or wrote (or something that represents your intention at the start of the year) - it’s optional but invited • Participation is invitational; listening is always welcome • Creative activities are optional