UMAYA Lighting Design has been shortlisted at the 2025 [d]arc awards for Mama Shelter Dubai in the PLACES – High Budget category, recognising the project's interior lighting design among an international selection of hospitality projects. (Darc Awards)

The [d]arc awards are one of the lighting industry's most respected peer-reviewed recognitions. Unlike many award programmes, the final winners are selected through voting by independent lighting designers, architects, interior designers and product designers from around the world, making the awards a reflection of recognition from fellow professionals.

For Mama Shelter Dubai, the lighting strategy was developed as an integral part of the guest experience. Rather than treating lighting as a decorative layer, the design establishes hierarchy, supports the hotel's vibrant identity, and responds to the character of each space through carefully balanced ambient, accent and feature lighting. Materiality, visual comfort and atmosphere were considered throughout the project to create interiors that remain engaging while maintaining architectural clarity.

Being shortlisted alongside leading international hospitality projects is an important milestone for the practice and reflects the collaborative effort of everyone involved in bringing the project to life.

We would like to thank our client, project partners and the entire team whose expertise and dedication made this recognition possible.