Saudi Fashion Awards 2025: Riyadh Amplifies Its Global Fashion Presence

Riyadh is no longer just a rising name in fashion — it’s a force. The second edition of the Saudi Fashion Awards took place last night, bringing together local designers, global powerhouses, and a growing creative community that’s rewriting what Middle Eastern style means on the world stage. Under the glowing lights of the King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, the event delivered a vision of the future: confident, couture-aware, and unapologetically Saudi.

A Red Carpet that Merged Tradition and Innovation

The red carpet sparkled with contrasts. Embellished abayas reimagined as couture silhouettes. Men in custom thobes layered with streetwear touches. Women in sculptural gowns by regional talents like Arwa Al Banawi and Honayda. And front row? A mix of Paris editors, Milan buyers, and TikTok’s Arab fashion influencers—blurring lines between tradition and global influence.

"The Saudi Fashion Awards are no longer local. They're international with an Arabic soul," said stylist Dana Malhas.

Winners Reflect a Vision of Identity and Craft

This year’s big winners included Yousef Akbar (Designer of the Year), Abadia (Sustainable Brand of the Year), and Razan Alazzouni (Emerging Talent). The jury praised their ability to weave identity, femininity, and craftsmanship into garments that speak to a new generation.

Special recognition was given to creative directors bridging Saudi heritage with futuristic forms. From pearl-embroidered jumpsuits to chrome-veiled gowns, the collections honored both memory and modernity.

Fashion as Cultural Soft Power

Organized by the Saudi Fashion Commission, the event is part of the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, positioning fashion not just as business—but as soft power. With partnerships between Saudi creatives and Paris fashion houses already underway, the country is leveraging storytelling and aesthetics to create lasting cultural capital.

"This isn’t about selling garments. It’s about shaping perception," said a Vogue Arabia editor in attendance.

Beauty Also Took the Stage

The Saudi Fashion Awards expanded to recognize beauty innovators as well. Shatha Al-Dossary won Beauty Brand of the Year for her inclusive, desert-proof skincare line, while global makeup artists showcased bold eye looks and luminous skin that complemented traditional garments reimagined for 2025.

Global Designers, Local Impact

International guests like Iris van Herpen and Olivier Rousteing praised the show’s direction. “There’s a sense of intention here,” said Rousteing. “Saudi Arabia is expressing power with elegance.” As more young designers launch their lines with support from fashion accelerators in Riyadh and Jeddah, the country’s impact will only expand.

The Saudi Fashion Awards 2025 made it clear: Riyadh is not imitating fashion capitals — it’s becoming one. With every drape, every silhouette, every glittering statement, Saudi creatives are forging a new aesthetic lexicon. One rooted in pride, shaped by youth, and ready for the world stage.