LONDON: Saudi Arabia is set to host its first Arab Fashion Week next monthas part of a push to support aspiring Saudi designers and drive growth inthe sector.
Princess Noura bint Faisal, honorary president of the Arab Fashion Council(AFC), announced the news to a small group of industry insiders andjournalists in London on Monday morning.
Reading a letter from the General Entertainment Authority in Saudi Arabia,she said: “Saudi Arabia’s artistic community has been growing in size andin confidence for a number of years and the General Entertainment Authoritybelieves that such an event will allow a proper platform to showcase theirfashion and arts talents as the vehicle for a comprehensive range ofentertainment options in Saudi Arabia.
“The General Entertainment Authority is proud to support an event thatseeks to bring people together in a mutual appreciation of the power offashion and art.”
The show, organized by the Arab Fashion Council, will take place from March26 to 31 at the Apex Center in Riyadh.
Princess Noura told Arab News that the event would be open to designersfrom all over the world. “This event is just the beginning,” she said.
Layla Issa Abuzaid, Saudi Arabia country director at the Arab FashionCouncil, said: “By launching the first Arab Fashion Week in Riyadh, we areaiming at more than to organize a world-class fashion event. We believethat to promote the fashion sector will support other economy sectors suchas tourism, hospitality, travel and trade. Our fashion sector is among thefastest growing in the world.”
The AFC, which aims to unite 22 Arab countries under one umbrella, recentlylaunched its regional office in Riyadh.
Saudi Fashion designer Arwa Al-Banawi, a regular exhibitor at Paris FashionWeek, has been eagerly anticipating the day when she can showcase herdesigns to an international audience in her own country.
“Saudi Arabia is becoming more and more developed and I’m seeing a lot ofSaudi designers following their dreams, it’s a very special time for femaleempowerment and also for the world to see the beautiful creative talent inour country.”
“I can’t wait to have my first fashion show in Riyadh. I’m really excitedthat this is finally happening in my own country.”