Deira Enrichment Project
A new era for one of Dubai’s oldest districts
Location:
Client:
ICD
Type:
Why?
Insight
Enriching an existing area –
The scope of this project was exciting: a major regeneration in one of Dubai’s oldest districts. The client was keen to position it as a totally new and standalone development, focused entirely on the details of what was being built.
However, as we started to engage with stakeholders and local communities, it became clear the true value of the project lay in the way it was enriching an existing area, restoring its importance and centrality to Dubai.
Enriching Dubai by restoring Deira’s heritage and vitality, a brand that celebrates a city’s past, present, and future.
What?
Idea
A project brand –
Our strategy was to make this a project brand, not a development brand. This approach initially surprised the client, but they were rapidly convinced. The story therefore focused on how these new elements evolve and celebrate Deira’s place in the past, present and future of the city. Then, once the project finishes, the brand will ‘disappear’, and what will be left is a better part of Dubai; not a new, standalone development.
Visually, we created a brand full of passion and energy: a showcase of Deira’s next phase. Our communications focused on engagement and awareness, rather than ‘selling’, in order to create enthusiasm in the community.
Why?
Impact
Embodying Dubai’s vision –
The project has been eagerly welcomed, and progress significant: five of phase one’s 20 districts opened in 2020.
