Product Design

Happy New Year and welcome back! This session is a relaxed post–winter break catch-up for the HCD UAE community, with time to reconnect, share stories, and ease back into the year together. Alongside the networking, we’ll have a short, informal talk led by **[Julie Rix](https://www.linkedin.com/in/julierixbagger/)**, Co-founder and Strategic Designer at **The Sifer Network**. Julie will reflect on a familiar pattern many organisations experience after engaging large management consultancies, the moment when the strategy decks are delivered, the consultants move on, and internal teams are left to “pick up the pieces”. The conversation will touch on themes such as how strategy engagements often fail to build real capability inside organisations, how dependency can form in both the short and long term, and what happens when a 300+ slide PowerPoint lands without clear ownership, execution, or embedded change. Rather than a takedown, this is a reflective discussion grounded in a couple of real projects and lived experience. The aim is to spark thoughtful conversation about what actually helps organisations scale, adapt, and improve once external advisors have left the room. As always with HCD UAE, expect a friendly crowd, thoughtful discussion, and plenty of space to connect with others working across design, product, service, strategy, and research.

Hello, We will speak about the basics of organizing homes. How to apply systems that work and how to improve the systems. We will talk about how to declutter and what to know before decluttering. The goal is to be able to learn to manage our homes bettert and create headspace for the important things in life. You will leave knowing how to create a perfect space. 100aed per person.

Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶 **​Imagine this 👇** * ​A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background. * ​An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor. * ​Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand. * ​A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect. It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫 **​✨ Expect the unexpected:** * ​Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing. * ​Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet. * ​Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over. ​So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Coffee 😊

Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶 **​Imagine this 👇** * ​A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background. * ​An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor. * ​Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand. * ​A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect. It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫 **​✨ Expect the unexpected:** * ​Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing. * ​Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet. * ​Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over. ​So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Coffee 😊

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!

### **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** **Coffee & Sundries, First Floor** **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\.**

Let's Step away from screens and step into real conversations. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​We’re hosting a **special coffee meetup** to meet new people, spark genuine connections, and share laughter in an **elegant café setting** 🌿🎶 **​Imagine this 👇** * ​A cozy evening with soft music playing in the background. * ​An elegant café atmosphere with warm lighting and stylish décor. * ​Coffee, tea, or your favorite drink in hand. * ​A room full of open-minded, amazing people ready to connect. It’s about **meeting new friends**, enjoying great vibes, and discovering the magic of spontaneous connection. Register and get more details! **[Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee)** ​Because sometimes, all it takes is a cup of coffee to turn strangers into friends. 💫 **​✨ Expect the unexpected:** * ​Fun conversation starters that keep things flowing. * ​Stories from people you never imagined you’d meet. * ​Surprising laughter that carries long after the night is over. ​So grab your favorite drink, take a seat, and let the conversations flow. **Registration** ✅ RSVP on Meetup. ✅ [Join WhatsApp group (+971 55 539 4811)](https://jo.my/wa-coffee) *Just like any event, slots are limited. RSVP and complete your registration at the earliest.* Happy Coffee 😊

**\*Registration is Mandatory on our website for this event.** Follow us on Instagram: [https://www.instagram.com/ladiessocialgatheringdubai/](https://www.instagram.com/ladiessocialgatheringdubai/) Join our free WhatsApp community: [https://chat.whatsapp.com/FpAjYciCBFt4xOcEX38Hq5](https://chat.whatsapp.com/FpAjYciCBFt4xOcEX38Hq5) Step into a relaxed, creative space where you’ll design a beautiful floral candle arrangement from start to finish. This hands-on workshop is perfect for anyone who enjoys creating something personal, aesthetic, and meaningful. Guests will make **13–14 different flower-shaped candles**, including a mix of **small and large designs**. You’ll be able to **select your preferred fragrances** to personalise each candle, allowing your final piece to reflect your own style and scent preferences. Once the candles are created, you’ll arrange them into an elegant bouquet-style display using **faux leaves and decorative elements**, learning simple techniques to achieve a polished, balanced look. The finished arrangement is **long-lasting**, making it ideal as home décor or an everlasting gift. No prior experience is required. All materials will be provided, along with step-by-step guidance throughout the session. Join us for a calming, creative experience and take home a thoughtfully crafted floral candle arrangement that’s truly one of a kind. **Location: LVLS, Goshi Warehouse**

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!

To confirm your booking, RSVP here and send a WhatsApp confirmation on **+971 55 284 9303** with your full name. Step into a calm, creative space where your hands do the talking, and your mind gets a break. This engaging and hands-on workshop is designed for both beginners and seasoned stitchers eager to explore the intricate world of embroidery. Participants will be guided through various techniques, from basic stitches to more advanced designs, enabling them to transform simple threads into stunning works of art. Our experienced instructors will provide personalized attention, ensuring everyone leaves with newfound skills and confidence. Beyond learning technical skills, this workshop is an opportunity to express your creativity, relax, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Come join us and discover how embroidery can be a rewarding outlet for your artistic flair! ✨ **What to Expect:** * A cozy, judgment-free zone where you can relax, unwind, and just be. * Supportive, guided learning—I'm here to make sure you feel welcomed, encouraged, and safe to create at your own pace. * A warm group of like-minded people (new friends included!). * In this beginner-friendly session, you’ll learn **5** unique stitches. 🧵 **Why Embroidery?** * It’s therapeutic (goodbye, stress). * It sharpens focus and patience. * It builds confidence, stitch by stitch. * And hey, your walls will thank you for the art you’re about to make. 🧶 **All Materials Provided:** * Needle & thread * Embroidery hoop * Pre-sketched fabric Don't miss this opportunity to explore the rich tradition of embroidery with a hint of the modern expression of art and craft something beautiful. **Investment: AED 150/-** 📅 **Pre-booking is required!** To confirm your booking, RSVP here and send a WhatsApp confirmation on **+971 55 284 9303** with your full name. **\*IMP NOTICE: No walk-ins or on-the-spot payment allowed. Only those who have pre-booked will be considered as confirmed participants\*** **Location: Terra Eatery, Al Thanya** Let’s stitch and share a few laughs. Can’t wait to see you there!

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!

Join the **Dubai MongoDB User Group,** in partnership with **[UAE Software Engineers & QA Dubai](https://luma.com/uaesoftwareengineers)**, for a practical, real-world focused meetup that dives into how MongoDB is used where performance and reliability truly matter. In **Topic 1: MongoDB Index Design That Actually Works**, we’ll go beyond theory and best practices to explore how to design indexes that deliver real performance gains. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, understand query patterns, and build efficient indexing strategies that scale in production environments. By : [Mohamed Maged](https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohamed-maged-72b596a6/) In **Topic 2: MongoDB in the Heart of Healthcare**, we’ll examine how MongoDB is powering modern healthcare systems. From handling complex clinical data models to supporting high availability, security, and compliance requirements, this session will highlight real use cases and architectural patterns from the healthcare domain. By: [Ashraf Nabil](https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashrafmnabil/) **In Topic 3: MongoDB Data Modeling Playbook (Patterns You’ll Use in Real Life),** Serkan Cavusoglu, a MongoDB Solutions Architect with nearly 30 years of global IT experience, will share practical approaches to designing MongoDB schemas that stay fast, flexible, and scalable. This session covers real-world data modeling patterns, embedding vs. referencing decisions, query-driven schema design, and strategies for evolving schemas without downtime. By: [Serkan Cavusoglu](https://www.linkedin.com/in/serkancavusoglu/) This meetup is ideal for **backend engineers, data engineers, architects, and tech leaders** who want to deepen their MongoDB expertise through practical insights and industry-driven examples. Whether you’re optimizing performance or building mission-critical systems, this event will provide valuable takeaways and opportunities to connect with the local MongoDB community in Dubai 🇦🇪. 🚀 **Come learn, share, and network with fellow MongoDB practitioners.**

**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*

This is a Paid event and will be deleted from here. Please register on the link below. https://Healcon.eventbrite.com[/?aff=Meetup](https://techbuiss.eventbrite.com/?aff=Meetup) QUESTIONS ? Please Reach out to; Disha - [https://wa.me/971525012234](https://wa.me/971525012234) ( WhatsApp Only)

Columbus Code & Coffee is an inclusive, informal co-working session. People of all skill levels attend, and we love it that way. Many people (optionally) bring projects to work on, and many other people (optionally) socialize the entire time. It's entirely up to you! **What to Expect at the Intro Circle** \~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~\~ Near the beginning of the event (1:30 pm), we do a standup: * Organizer announcements, updates, and logistics Round 1 - (7 secs max): * Your name * What you're working on * What you can help others with Round 2: * Community events you wanna plug. If none, that's cool too. Round 3: * Job opportunities you're hiring for OR announce that you are looking for one. If none, that's cool. After the introduction circle, everything is self-organized! Feel free to work alone, pair up, attend one of our workshops/presentations, or mingle!

Let’s meetup at Cafe Istanbul for the last day of Restaurant Week. You get three courses for $30. This is the menu: https://614now.com/rw-menu/cafeistanbul-easton

**Web Design Decoded: Tools, Practices, and Proven Processes:** **Semantic HTML** At WebDev Columbus, we are exploring some of the most important topics of professional high-end web design and page building. Primarily focused on site building in the WordPress environment, our group explores tools, tips, and techniques for building the best WordPress sites possible. Additionally, we focus on disciplines and technologies that take website design from visually appealing to optimized spaces for delivering you and/or your client's message effectively and with a nod towards extended reach. Each session combines practical demonstrations with real-world insights, giving you actionable knowledge you can apply immediately. Whether you're a seasoned developer looking to enhance your design skills or a newcomer wanting to understand design best practices, this series offers valuable insights for every skill level. **What to expect:** * Hands-on demonstrations of popular design tools * Best practices for design-to-development workflows * Tips for creating responsive, accessible designs * Real-world problem-solving scenarios * Interactive Q&A sessions * Networking opportunities with fellow developers **Each meetup features:** 60 minutes of focused presentation 30 minutes of live demonstrations 30 minutes for questions and discussion **See you there!** Our casual, collaborative environment encourages learning from both presenters and fellow attendees. Bring your questions, share your experiences, and connect with Central Ohio's web development community! **Stay tuned for specific session topics and dates.**

I love my job and one of the main things I do is help customers get going with any of the data technologies at Microsoft. Right now there are a lot of my customers asking about Microsoft Fabric. It's hard to weave across all the shiny new options across the Fabric landscape, let alone figure out where it fits into your organization. In this session we'll focus on answering one question - how can I get data into Fabric? We'll talk through the "it depends" options and see some of the options in live demos.

**TBA**

Join us for an interactive Bombay Gin Cocktail Class at TownHall — a fun, social experience designed to bring people together over great drinks, great food, and great conversation. During the class, you’ll learn how to craft several different Bombay Gin cocktails, guided by a master mixologist in a relaxed, high-energy setting. This isn’t a lecture — it’s hands-on, engaging, and built to spark connection, laughter, and good vibes. Whether you come solo or with friends, this experience makes it easy to meet people, enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, and unwind mid-week. ✨ What’s Included (A Ton 😁) • Multiple Bombay Gin cocktails • Interactive cocktail instruction • Food & appetizers sponsored by TownHall • A lively, social atmosphere 🍸 Sponsored by Bombay Gin 🍽 Food & appetizers sponsored by TownHall Must be 21+ to attend $20 fee per person 

**Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD) TEAMS UP with The Central Ohio GameDev Group (COGG) for the 2026 Global Game Jam (GGJ)!!!** **GGJ SITE** [https://globalgamejam.org/jam-sites/2026/columbus-college-art-design-central-ohio-game-group-ggj-2026](https://globalgamejam.org/jam-sites/2026/columbus-college-art-design-central-ohio-game-group-ggj-2026) **REGISTRATION** Fill out this form >>> [https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7](https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7) <<< *PLEASE NOTE* \- We have limited capacity so us knowing In\-Person participation early on is critical for us to best accommodate everyone interested in jammin' \- We will also be providing Online teams & support via our COGG Discord bot [Jammio](https://jammio.xyz/)! **Registering for this MEETUP event DOES NOT gain you access to the main Global Game Jam event. Please register officially [here](https://forms.gle/J6sGDZJFTmZkC6pk7).** Every year the game department at CCAD hosts students (and this year local game group COGG!!) in the exciting challenge of developing a theme inspired title over the course of a weekend. The Global Game Jam is a cherished tradition, be it in-person or virtually, we are here for you! This is an excellent opportunity to connect with your peers, make new friends, network with local game makers and try your hand at low stakes game development! Want to know all the details? [Check out the official GGJ site](https://globalgamejam.org/faq) and be sure to use your existing account or create a new jammer [account](https://globalgamejam.org/user/register). \-\-\-\-\- **EVENT DETAILS** Listings subject to change and will be updated so check in periodically! An **[Event Details doc](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SOPkHxpRVD7qrfVnWVMsWPB7zQwC5wtJK51v6T3a2hQ/edit?usp=sharing)** can be read for all your info! **Building Hours + Security** available throughout the event **Parking:** See [parking spots highlighted in blue](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Me_JNpE8YaGqR54KxmJei7w6OZ3rhjeC/view). (see new as of last year) *All Locations:* **DSB 121**, The Game Lounge: informal space for people to decompress. Private bathrooms **DSB126**, Small Classroom / Break-out room **DSB127**, (large multi-use space, tables, projector, couches, bistro tables/chairs, etc) **DSB136**, Flex Space (meals / food, access to refrigerator / microwave, drop-power and tables/chairs). **DSB142**, Presentation room **DSB146**, Cintiq Laptop Docking Lab **VENUE TIME & SPACE** **Friday** 5:00pm - 12am Event launch - *DSB 142* [YouTube Live Stream @6pm](https://youtube.com/live/pV40YzllqoY?feature=share) **Saturday** 7am - 12am **Sunday** 7am - 7:00pm Event closing - *DSB 142* [YouTube Live Stream Ending Ceremony @6pm](https://youtube.com/live/stxxCCPzy2A?feature=share) **MISC. RESOURCES** **Wifi:** We will have access to the GUEST network \- To be provided for login to participants at the event Friday Jan 30th **Map** [CCAD Map](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Me_JNpE8YaGqR54KxmJei7w6OZ3rhjeC/view?usp=sharing) **Wavier** [Sign and Print or Email to info@thecogg.com](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KaKoz5sK5h1PdZ2rGNOCntyUxoXcGLXL/view) **Schedule** [Updated Regularly](https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1EONsxtr3S-bRvIp_s12os-JA-M7uEW207bi9MVfrvbM/edit?usp=sharing) **Event Details** [All in one spot for all event details](https://docs.google.com/document/d/1SOPkHxpRVD7qrfVnWVMsWPB7zQwC5wtJK51v6T3a2hQ/edit?usp=sharing) **SPONSORS** Global Game Jam ([GGJ](https://globalgamejam.org/)) Columbus College of Art and Design ([CCAD](https://www.ccad.edu/)) The Central Ohio GameDev Group ([COGG](https://thecogg.com/)) [Jammio](https://jammio.xyz/) \- Discord game jam bot [GDEX](https://www.thegdex.com/)/[Multivarious](https://www.multivarious.com/) \- Midwest Premiere Gaming Expo