In recent years, Middle Eastern designers have taken the global fashion scene by storm, captivating audiences with their unique blend of cultural heritage, impeccable craftsmanship, and contemporary flair. From couture houses that grace the Paris runways to footwear and accessory brands favoured by international celebrities, these visionary designers are redefining luxury and elegance on a global scale. Here, we spotlight ten outstanding Middle Eastern fashion brands that are making a lasting mark across the world.
Ashi Studio
Mohammed Ashi, the first couturier from the Gulf region to join the esteemed Fédération de la Haute Couture, founded his couture house in 2007. Ashi’s masterful approach to couture—contrasting baroque and minimalist elements—positioned him as a pioneer in his native Saudi Arabia. Ashi Studio gained global attention following its debut at Paris Haute Couture Week in 2023, marking a historic moment for Middle Eastern fashion. Celebrities such as Kylie Jenner, Queen Rania of Jordan, Beyoncé, and Lady Gaga have worn his sculptural designs.
Jad Soda
Raised in the creative environment of his father Basil Soda’s atelier, Jad Soda developed an early passion for fashion. In 2018, he introduced his inaugural ready-to-wear capsule collection under his namesake label, JAD SODA. Aimed at a younger audience, the collection includes versatile mix-and-match garments and effortlessly elegant evening dresses, appealing to style-conscious women who value both trend and affordability.
Rami Al Ali
Rami Al Ali, known for his detailed designs and refined colour palette, embodies modern femininity and timeless elegance. He became the first Syrian designer to be recognised by the Business of Fashion list. Al Ali founded his couture house in Dubai in 2001 and made his Paris Couture Week debut in 2012. Since then, he has expanded his brand to include ready-to-wear and bridal collections. His designs have been worn by global and national celebrities such as Eva Longoria, Jessica Chastain, Jennifer Lopez, Naomi Campbell, and Assala.
Maison Yeya
Maison Yeya is a French–Egyptian fashion house offering couture, ready-to-wear, bridal, couture privée, and accessories. Founded by Yasmine Yeya in Egypt in 2007, the brand relocated its headquarters to Dubai in 2016. Maison Yeya is renowned for its sophisticated couture and bridal designs, blending modern silhouettes with romantic and ethereal elements. The brand has dressed notable Arab and international figures, including Megan Fox, Halle Bailey, Taylor Hill, and Egypt’s First Lady, Intissar El Sisi.
Andrea Wazen
Andrea Wazen is a Lebanese luxury footwear designer who established her brand in 2013. Trained under Rupert Sanderson and Christian Louboutin in London, Wazen combines Middle Eastern heritage with Italian craftsmanship. The brand has expanded globally, boasting a flagship store in Beirut’s Saifi Village and a wide presence across Europe, both online and in stores, including availability at Saks Fifth Avenue across ten stores in the United States. Her designs have been spotted on celebrities such as Sabrina Carpenter, Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, Khloé Kardashian, and Eva Longoria.
Okhtein
Okhtein is an Egyptian luxury brand founded in 2014 by sisters Aya and Mounaz Abdelraouf. The brand is known for its ethical craftsmanship and bold designs that blend traditional Egyptian elements with modernity. In 2022, Okhtein collaborated with Balmain during Paris Fashion Week. Celebrities such as Joey King, Beyoncé, Emma Watson, Cardi B, and Gigi Hadid have been seen sporting the brand’s creations.
Temraza
Farida Temraz is the founder and creative director of Temraza, launched in 2012. She quickly gained international recognition and was named “Best Female Couture Designer” at New York Fashion Week in 2017. Temraza, Egypt’s leading haute couture brand, seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with Egyptian heritage, empowering women through fashion. Temraza designs have graced red carpets all over the world, worn by celebrities including Ajiona Alexus, Laura Bell Bundy, and Cara Buono.
Bouguessa
Founded by French–Algerian Faiza Bouguessa in 2014, this Dubai-based ready-to-wear label is celebrated for its modern interpretations of traditional abayas and minimalist wear. Bouguessa gained international acclaim when Beyoncé wore one of its designs, leading to a surge in global demand. Celebrities such as Priyanka Chopra and Melissa McCarthy have also been seen wearing the brand.
Nicolas Jebran
Nicolas Jebran is a celebrated Lebanese fashion designer, known for his avant-garde haute couture creations that fuse traditional craftsmanship with futuristic design. He established his first fashion house in Abu Dhabi in 2000, followed by a second atelier in Beirut, reinforcing his prominence in the Middle Eastern fashion scene. Jebran’s designs, often featuring sculptural elements and luxurious detailing, have been worn by numerous international celebrities, including Priyanka Chopra, Katy Perry in the Dark Horse music video, and Rita Ora.
Charbel Zoe
Charbel Zoe, a renowned Lebanese fashion designer, is recognised for his intricate embellishments, luxurious fabrics, and figure-flattering silhouettes. With ateliers in Kuwait and Los Angeles, Zoe has carved out a significant presence in the fashion industry. In 2013, he was awarded the Emerging Women’s Wear Designer Award at Miami Fashion Week, propelling him into the international spotlight. He has since dressed a range of high-profile celebrities, including Paris Hilton, Haifa Wehbe, Jennifer Lopez, Shakira, and Britney Spears.