Sole DXB is returning bigger than ever for its 10th anniversary, with Moroccan photographer Hassan Hajjaj as its first-ever festival host. This year’s edition will take place from December 9-11 in Dubai Design District, and also mark the highly-anticipated Dubai event’s comeback after a three-year hiatus.
Known for celebrating a different subculture every edition, Sole DXB will spotlight talent across the Arab world and its diaspora this year, after its team took a trip to Morocco this summer, “to learn and draw inspiration from the culture, and to connect with creators and creatives.” The latter is highlighted in a new campaign for the festival lensed by Hajjaj in the historic Madina of Marrakech, which features Moroccan rapper ElGrande Toto and master vocalist and percussionist, Khadija El Warzazia. The festival, which counts music, fashion, visual arts, and sports as its four pillars, will also bring together musicians, designers, artists, speakers, and athletes from the MENA region.
Hajjaj, who is known for his eclectic work and has photographed two of Vogue Arabia’s cover shoots, says, “Over the last 10 years, I’ve witnessed Sole DXB develop as a platform for self-expression. A space where you can come and be yourself… where you are celebrated for who you are. Having moved early in my life from Morocco to London, I quickly had to learn that home must often be a state of mind. It’s our story, our traditions, our shared values, and the people we surround ourselves with. I believe that art can move us forward. It can dispel stereotypes.” He adds, “My work this year with Sole DXB was to build a space that was a reflection of those shared values. The Arab world is not a monolith. It’s a collection of diverse people with a shared heritage. Our contributions to the world have changed the course of history and we’re here to show that we aren’t out of ideas.”
While the full lineup of guests for Sole DXB 2022 is yet to be announced, it is expected to feature renowned names given that previous editions were attended by Nas, Stormzy, Hiroshi Fujiwara, Petra Collins, and more.
From the Vogue website.
