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A little bit of Kazakhstan in the Heart of Dubai

A little bit of Kazakhstan in the Heart of Dubai

What happens when a family deeply connected to Kazakhstan brings a piece of that world to Dubai? What emerges is not just a space, but a story of memory, movement, and culture finding a shared address.
At Design Dome, City Walk, Dubai, Kazakhstan is not merely referenced—it is experienced. Inspired by the spirit of the ancient Silk Road, where Kazakhstan once stood as a vital cultural corridor linking East and West, the space reimagines this historic exchange as a contemporary lifestyle destination. Here, Kazakh heritage unfolds through art, fashion, flavors, and rituals, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into a culture often admired for its landscapes but less known for its rich traditions.
Yes, while Kazakhstan is widely recognized for its vast steppes, dramatic mountains, and gorgeous lakes, its deeper cultural identity, rooted in hospitality, craftsmanship, and storytelling, remains a quiet revelation. At Design Dome, that narrative comes alive.
“In Kazakhstan, hospitality isn’t a gesture; it’s a way of life. It’s a country rich in arts and music, where traditions are preserved, and stories are constantly reimagined for the present. That spirit is what we wanted to recreate here in Dubai,” says Lalit Tilani, co-founder of Design Dome. With over three decades of experience in fashion, textiles, and global supply chains, Lalit envisioned Design Dome as not just a concept store but also a cultural bridge. His personal connection to Kazakhstan runs deep: his wife is from the country, his children were born there, and the region has long felt like home.
Yes, at the heart of this vision is a family-led creative force. His daughter, Diviya Tilani, an artist and costume designer, translates cultural narratives into wearable art. His son, Ravi Tilani, a musician-turned-entrepreneur, brings a contemporary global lens to the experience. Alongside them is their mother, Raushan Tilani, a designer whose work transforms textiles into expressions of identity and elegance. Together, they have created a space where Kazakh heritage is not preserved behind glass but lived, worn, tasted, and shared.
What to experience at Design Dome:
Fashion: An in-house fashion line inspired by Kazakh heritage, where traditional motifs and timeless fabrics are reinterpreted for modern living. Each piece reflects a balance between cultural memory and contemporary style.
Tea & Hospitality: Kazakh tea rituals take center stage—crafted from natural tea leaves and designed for multiple infusions, allowing flavors to gently evolve with each pour. Rooted in warmth and connection, it transforms tea into an experience best enjoyed with traditional Kazakh treats.
Bespoke Sneakers: Hand-painted by UAE-based designer Diviya Tilani, these bespoke sneakers blend individuality with cultural storytelling. From UAE-inspired elements to Central Asian influences—including subtle nods to Kazakhstan—each pair is a wearable canvas.
Art & Craftsmanship: A rotating showcase of artists transforms the space into a living gallery. From handcrafted silk-and-wool kaftans to intricate mother-of-pearl jewelry boxes from Damascus, the collection reflects the shared artistry of regions once connected by the Silk Road.
Games & Cultural Moments: Even leisure carries cultural meaning. Backgammon Evenings—reimagined with traditional Kazakh artistry—invite visitors to slow down, connect, and engage. The game sets on display are worth admiration and a purchase.
At Design Dome, Kazakhstan is a feeling, a flavor, a fabric, and a moment of connection. In the heart of Dubai, a little piece of Kazakhstan quietly finds its place and invites you to experience it.