Dubai’s d3 was electrified as Sole DXB returned for its latest edition, raising the bar once again for the region’s premier youth and contemporary culture festival. Over three nights and two days, attendees were treated to a great experience featuring international and local music, groundbreaking fashion, thought-provoking talks, and workshops. The 2024 festival not only lived up to its reputation but solidified its standing as a global cultural phenomenon.
Unforgettable Performances
Sole DXB’s musical lineup brought an unmatched vibrancy to the festival. Grammy-winning British singer-songwriter James Blake kicked off the weekend on Friday, December 13, with his evocative melodies, while fan favorites The Joyfollowed with their captivating set.
Saturday, December 14, delivered a powerhouse lineup headlined by Tems, making her Sole DXB debut. The Nigerian sensation, celebrated for her collaborations with Drake and Wizkid, mesmerized the crowd with her unique blend of Afrobeats, R&B, and pop. Festival-goers also enjoyed performances by Grammy-nominated rapper J.I.D., along with rising stars Hey Abi, TUL8TE, Show Dem Camp, and LORDKEZ. On the second stage, legends like Arrested Development shared the spotlight with Mansur Brown, Jarreau Vandal, Ezra Collective, and MzRizk, creating a musical journey through hip-hop, jazz, and soul.
The festival reached its climax on Sunday, December 15, with the iconic The Roots headlining. With four Grammy Awards and timeless hits like What They Do and The Seed, they closed the weekend in spectacular fashion. Sunday’s lineup also featured standout performances from Grammy-nominated rapper Latto, Belgian hip-hop star Hamza, Sudanese rapper G-Salih, and viral sensation Hanumankind from India. The second stage continued its streak of stellar acts with performances by Sid Sriram, DJ Questlove, and Floyd Lavine.
Spotlight on Fashion
Beyond the music, Sole DXB offered an unparalleled fashion experience through its Spotlight by d3 pop-up, which showcased a curated selection of innovative independent brands. From Azra Active’s versatile women’s clothing to Barzakh’s intricate jewelry and Daastangoi’s nostalgic fragrances, every brand offered something unique. Attendees explored new collections from favorites like Almost Gods, Five Pillars, and NIVIOUR, while Kismet by Milka made its festival debut with on-site piercing services, adding a fresh twist to the fashion showcase.
A Vibrant Hub of Culture
Sole DXB is more than just a festival; it’s a dynamic platform for self-expression and creativity. With film screenings, sports tournaments, youth clinics, and engaging workshops rounding out the program, the festival continues to be a melting pot of global culture and innovation.
As Sole DXB wraps up another unforgettable year, it leaves behind a legacy of inspiration, proving once again why it’s a must-attend event for music and culture enthusiasts worldwide.
