The pioneering luxury incubator from Harrods (Instagram), The Hive, returned to Dubai for its third edition, reaffirming the city’s role as a global hub for innovation, creativity, and cultural exchange within the luxury space. Held at the historic Al Shindagha Museum, the one-day event convened leading voices from across fashion, design, and business to reexamine the idea of value in a rapidly changing global luxury landscape.
The 2025 edition of Harrods Hive delved into pressing topics including craftsmanship, innovation, sustainability, and the evolving expectations of modern consumers. “Dubai has long been a beacon of innovation, where luxury is continuously refined and reimagined,” said Michael Ward, Managing Director of Harrods. “It is an honour to bring the Harrods Hive back to this inspirational city for a third year, uniting emerging talent of the next generation with visionary leaders and entrepreneurs shaping the next wave of luxury.”
He added, “As the luxury experience evolves, value is being redefined at every level—from the way we create beautiful works of art and fashion, to the connections and purpose behind them. Our hope is that the Harrods Hive will inspire the next generation to embrace the values and ideas that will define the future of luxury.”
Moderated by global retail executive Rania Khatib, the programme opened with “Value in the Hands of the Makers,” a panel examining the deeply human element of luxury and the creative identities behind fashion and art. Speakers included Nez Gebreel, Brand Strategist and Luxury Advisor; Pauline Coquet, Partner at Bain & Company; and Catherine Broome, Executive Search – Future Consumer & Luxury Innovation.
In “Sustainability – The New Standard of Value,” panelists Alia Khafajy, Founder and CEO of OKTA; Noora Shawqi, Jewellery Designer; and Ani Han, Founder and Creative Director of Enso Design Lab, discussed practical applications of sustainable practice and how global expectations are transforming industry standards.
The day concluded with an intimate ‘In Conversation With’ session featuring Miral Youssef, President of Kering MEA, offering insight into how the luxury group is adapting to shifting definitions of value.
With its focus on connecting global expertise with regional talent, the Harrods Hive continues to build momentum as a platform for thought leadership and purposeful creativity. By spotlighting voices driving meaningful change, the initiative underscores Harrods’ evolving role as more than a retailer—but as a cultural and creative force shaping the future of luxury.
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