RAHAL X SC DDW24

COLLABORATION

2024

ABOUT

Rahal is a contemporary sandal brand rooted in Middle Eastern heritage, blending cultural authenticity with modern design. The brand is known for creating collectible footwear and immersive experiences that connect customers to the journey of the Rahal (the traveler/nomad).

OVERVIEW

In collaboration with Rahal, Salman Collective set out to design an immersive booth for Dubai Design Week that blended the world of fashion with art and narrative. The objective was to create a space that embodied the spirit of the Rahal while infusing it with Salman Collective’s artistic vision. The ambition was not simply to display products but to develop an environment where visitors could enter a story—a shared narrative of belonging and discovery.

OBJECTIVE

In collaboration with Rahal, Salman Collective set out to design an immersive, experiential booth for Dubai Design Week, blending the world of fashion with art and storytelling. ‍

The objective was to create a space that embodied the spirit of the Rahal (nomad) while incorporating elements of Salman Collective’s artistic vision. Our aim was to develop a conceptual environment where visitors wouldn’t just see the Rahal products but feel part of a shared narrative of exploration, resilience, and connection.

This collaborative journey was intended to resonate emotionally with visitors, transforming the booth into a destination that reflected both brands' values and creative aspirations.

SOLUTION

01

Concept Development

I collaborated with Rahal to define a concept that represented the journey of the nomad. We envisioned a booth resembling a resting place, setting the direction for an immersive, travel-inspired experience.

02

Spatial Design

The booth layout was crafted to look like a gazebo, symbolizing a sanctuary for travelers. I've used textures, pathways, and carefully chosen materials to evoke the spirit of exploration and comfort.

03

Interactive Storytelling

I designed interactive elements, allowing visitors to try on Rahal sandals and engage with products. These touchpoints created a narrative journey, giving visitors a sense of stepping into the nomad’s world.

‍04

Brand Alignment

Rahal’s branding was seamlessly integrated into the design, balanced with Salman Collective’s artistic style. Colors, logos, and lighting were thoughtfully aligned to reflect both brands’ identities.

05

‍Final Setup and Testing

After installation, I evaluated the booth from a visitor’s perspective to ensure flow and impact. Small adjustments were made to enhance usability, creating a cohesive and engaging experience for all who entered.

06

This collaboration demonstrated the shared commitment between Rahal and Salman Collective to design environments that tell stories rather than simply occupy space. The booth was conceived not as a temporary retail fixture, but as a cultural gesture—an artistic expression of journey and rest, crafted to resonate deeply with those who entered.

OUTCOME

The result was a space that transcended function and became a destination in its own right. Visitors connected emotionally with the booth, not only through the products on display but through the atmosphere and narrative that surrounded them. The design positioned Rahal as a brand that leads with experience and story, while highlighting Salman Collective’s ability to transform cultural references into contemporary environments. Together, the collaboration embodied freedom, exploration, and belonging—values that lingered with visitors long after they left the space.

therahalofficial.com

PREVIOUS WORK

NEXT WORK