Every year in December, AD launches its annual AD100 list – spotlighting the most influential architects and designers of the year. Here’s everything you need to know.
For more than a decade, the AD100 has been one of Architectural Digest’s most anticipated moments. A global celebration of the architects, designers and studios shaping how we build, live and collect. Each year, each of the AD editions around the world curates its own list, spotlighting the top 100 talents defining the future of design in their regions. Some names are returning heavyweights; others are breakthrough voices making their mark for the first time.
What is AD100?
The AD100 recognises the creatives pushing design forward, those whose work responds to contemporary needs, reinterprets craft, and sets the tone for how spaces across the world evolve. Their projects are trend-setting and style-defining. It is the people behind the innovative and inspiring stories that make all our editions and channels what AD really is.
Each AD market (aka edition) undertakes its own detailed selection process, resulting in eight unique lists published globally this year. As Aidan Imanova, Head of Editorial Content at AD Middle East, explains:
Where can I find the AD100 list?
The 2026 AD100 lists will be published in each market in the first week of December, as part of a global reveal. The AD100 Middle East list will go live on 4 December 2025 across all AD ME digital platforms. Alongside the list, you’ll find standout projects and cultural moments from the honourees. In addition, the special December 2025 – January 2026 print issue will also be dedicated to the AD100.
Discover how the region’s creative landscape has evolved through previous AD100 editions:
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From December 4th, 2025, onwards, you can discover all about the 2026 AD100 on admiddleeast.com/ad100 and on our social media channels. Be the first to find out everything about the most important design event of the year and subscribe to the AD newsletter.
