Copyright © 2026 Motivate Media Group. All rights reserved.
Roar brings cultural symbolism to Ajman’s new Ruler’s Court
Blending quiet luxury with traditional Emirati elements, Roar’s design for the Ajman Ruler’s Court reflects both the region’s heritage and its contemporary culture. The central staircase is at the forefront of this design, taking cues from the desert’s ever-shifting sand dunes in a nod to the dynamic nature of organisational structures. “The staircase represents the fluidity and resilience of our region’s natural landscapes and mirrors the adaptability required in leadership and governance,” shares Pallavi Dean, Founder and Creative Director of Roar. Custom palm tree statues created by Emirati designer Khalid Shafar complement the references to native landforms. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a reception area that echoes the staircase’s design language. The reception desk, with clean lines and dynamic shapes, is highlighted by a suspended light from Huda Lighting. An artwork by local artist Akil fuses Arabic calligraphy with sculptural components, while a curved bench upholstered in earthy tones provides a welcoming seating area. Also in the reception area, His Highness’ private elevator is framed by brass panels and wood details, drawing inspiration from traditional Areesh houses (structures built entirely of materials from palm trees), with the travertine flooring adding a contemporary twist. A series of long, low-profile sofas in neutral tones lines the Chairman’s Majlis (meeting room), accented by a striking round chandelier, reminiscent of palm tree dates, that connects the space to the overall design theme. The warm-hued wood panels, marble accents – including Minotti marble-topped coffee tables – and plush carpeting all convey an elegant comfort, while the large windows invite ardent natural daylight, creating a productive environment. Sculptures by artist Azza Al Qubaisi, who is known for pairing natural materials and metal, also infuse the decor with cultural significance, using local wood that resonates with the UAE’s heritage.





His Highness’s office combines high-quality materials, used throughout the space, while a veneer wall features a discreet door that leads to a private bathroom. Specially created for the space using a fabric drawing technique, a piece by Ultra Arte hangs above the Majlis-style seating arrangement, enhancing the room’s sophisticated yet relaxed ambience.
Read more interior features.
Sleek and clean, the Minimalistic series applies restraint in its design.
This year, we celebrate the interior designers, architects and product designers from the region – from emerging talent to the visionaries and global firms with local presence. We uncover their latest projects and what drew them to the profession.
Read identity magazine's July-August 2026 edition on ISSUU or grab your copy
The German kitchen studio discusses why restraint, not statement, is the harder thing to achieve and what that means for the architects and designers it works with.
Where There is Uns by Joud Malhas and Rachel Antoun
Bang & Olufsen was founded in a farmhouse in Struer, Denmark, where Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen were united by a singular belief: that technology should be as beautiful as it is functional
Inspired by a Japanese ryokan, Studio Munge completes Canada’s first Nobu hotel
Set a stone’s throw away from Hyde Park, the Six Senses London has wellness at its heart
This home in Mumbai, India is an ode to Italian design
Five-star luxury property Lefay Resort & SPA Lago di Garda in Gargnano, Italy, features a renovation by Studio Apostoli and the Lefay Project Team blending contemporary luxury with natural materials
This villa in Jumeirah Bay by Delfina Design utilises natural materials to enhance its position as a beachfront home
The store was unveiled on 23 May, marking a significant milestone for the brand in the region.