The fashion scene of the Gulf has evolved into one of the more thrilling corners of the fashion world, and a lot of the enthusiasm originates from the local talent. Emirati designers are taking on traditional silhouettes such as the abaya using modern sensibilities, and regional icons from all over the Middle East continue to shape the runways of international fashion houses. If you’re planning to build a wardrobe that is rooted in the regional aesthetic or just want to know what names to follow These are the five designers who have put Emirati as well as regional style onto the map.
1. Qasimi
In 2015, the brand was founded by late Khalid Al Qasimi, Qasimi is a brand based in London, that has unmistakably Middle Eastern roots. Qasimi is now run by his daughter, Sheikha Hoor Al Qasimi who is also director and president of the Sharjah Art Foundation. Qasimi has earned a name for tailoring that connects two cultures- elegant, thoughtful menswear as well as womenswear that reflects Gulf tradition while using an international design language. It’s a popular choice for people who seek a Middle Eastern identity expressed through modern, modern lenses instead of traditional silhouettes by themselves.
What’s next? A unique Emirati-founded label that has a real place on the world fashion world not just the local one.
2. YNM by Yasmin Al Mulla
In 2014, the brand was founded by the Creative Director Yasmin Al-Mulla, YNM is now one of Dubai’s most well-known ready-to wear Abaya brands. The brand is known for simple elegantly refined pieces that are completely handmade and made entirely in-house. Instead of relying on bulky ornamentation, YNM focuses on clean lines and thoughtful drapingthis has earned it the status of a must-have for women looking for minimal clothing that feels modern and minimalist.
What’s the reason: If you’re after unassuming, wearable abayas, with an appealing aesthetic The YNM brand is often mentioned in the categories’ benchmarks.
3. Gabi Dubai
Established by the sisters Waad along with Sheyma Al Hammadi in the year 2000, Gabi Dubai combines Emirati traditions with a minimalist style — which is believed to have derived on the the architect Ludwig Mies van Der Rohe’s “less is more” philosophy. This is the result: a selection of simple pieces that favour simple lines and a minimalistic design over embellishment and appeals to the customer who seeks modernity and modesty to blend seamlessly.
What’s the reason: Gabi Dubai represents the latest generation of Emirati sister-driven labels, proving that modesty and minimalism aren’t mutually exclusive – they’re both complementary.
4. Noora Shawqi
Beyond the realm of ready-to-wear, Noora Shawqi has carved its name in the world of fine jewellery. Based in Dubai together with skilled local artisans The brand makes use of diamonds, gold and vivid gems to create stunning pieces inspired by travel and storytelling. The collections of Shawqi are designed to feel timeless and bold, allowing the women wearing their pieces to go out and be different than blending with the crowd.
Why: For anyone building out accessories instead of clothing, Shawqi is one of the most clear examples of Emirati workmanship applied to exquisite jewelry.
5. Elie Saab
A list of the most influential regional designers would be incomplete with out Elie Saab. The Lebanese designer has been wearing royals and celebrities’ outfits on red carpets all over the globe, becoming an one of the more well-known names that have emerged from the Middle Eastern fashion industry. The designer is known for its intricate embellishments with sweeping silhouettes, as well as an unmistakable sense for style, Saab’s work been instrumental in putting Middle Eastern craftsmanship at the forefront of luxury fashion worldwide and has opened an avenue for future generations of designers from the region to be recognized on the international stage.
Why: Saab remains the standard regional name by which the newest Gulf as well as Levantine designers are frequently measured.
Final Thoughts
From abaya-style houses in Dubai to the Lebanese designer legend Five designers showcase the variety of the concept of “Emirati and regional fashion” actually means today- tradition-based but never static, edgy but never sloppy. If you’re looking for casual wear or everyday abayas, as well as high-end jewelry, these names can be a great base to know the direction Gulf as well as Middle Eastern fashion is headed in the future.
