Cairo Design Week 2026

Cairo Design Week, launched in 2023, presents Egyptian architecture, furniture, crafts and product design through exhibitions, open studios, talks and installations spread across the city. Its fourth edition runs from 19 to 28 November 2026 and takes place in three districts: leafy Zamalek, belle-epoque Downtown and the historic garden suburb of Heliopolis. The festival is a good way to discover Cairo’s young design scene and to see heritage buildings that are not usually open to the public. Most exhibitions and showrooms are free to enter, while some talks and tours need advance registration. Check the official website and social media for the map of participating venues and daily schedules, and plan one district per day to avoid traffic.

Dates: announced by the organisers.

Official website

What to expect

The programme mixes exhibitions in galleries, showrooms and historic buildings with open studios, panel discussions, workshops and guided walks. Many participants are young Egyptian designers and architects working with local materials and crafts such as woodwork, glass, textiles and metalwork. Expect a mix of design professionals, students, collectors and curious Cairenes, with a sociable crowd at evening openings.

Getting there

Downtown is served by several metro stations, including Sadat and Mohamed Naguib, and much of the area is easy to explore on foot. Zamalek and Heliopolis are best reached by taxi or ride-hailing app. Moving between districts by car can take a long time, especially in the evening rush hour.

Planning tips

• November weather in Cairo is usually mild and sunny, ideal for walking between venues.
• Wear comfortable shoes, as some heritage buildings have stairs and no lifts.
• Opening times vary from venue to venue, so check the schedule before setting out.
• Some exhibitors sell their pieces, so bring a way to pay if you hope to buy.