I am quite familiar with Dubai and its design scene. I have been a regular visitor for more than 10 years. It is hard to name an area where hospitality, friendship, culture, ambition, and beauty are so highly regarded.

In this quote, Marcel Wanders expresses his deep admiration for Dubai and its design scene, highlighting the city’s unique combination of hospitality, friendship, culture, ambition, and beauty. He reflects on his long-standing relationship with the city, having been a regular visitor for over a decade. Wanders points out that in Dubai, these values are not only present but are deeply ingrained in the city's identity, making it a dynamic place that fosters creativity and innovation in design.

Wanders emphasizes how these qualities, such as ambition and beauty, are integral to the city's atmosphere and development. The hospitality and friendship he refers to suggest that Dubai is not just a business hub, but a place where relationships—both professional and personal—are valued and nurtured. This combination makes the city stand out, with its mix of modernity and respect for traditional values, which makes it a focal point for those in the design and creative industries.

The origin of the quote comes from Wanders’ extensive experience in Dubai, where he has witnessed firsthand the rapid development of the city's architecture and design scene. As an internationally renowned designer, Wanders has collaborated with various brands and institutions, often drawing inspiration from the ambitious and cutting-edge environment of the city. His perspective is rooted in his personal and professional interactions with the region.

Ultimately, Wanders’ statement highlights the distinctive nature of Dubai, a city that has become a global symbol of innovation, culture, and progress. By describing it as a place where core values like hospitality and friendship are intertwined with design and ambition, he underscores Dubai’s unique role as a cultural and creative powerhouse in the modern world.