Saudi Vision 2030 elevates the position of the Saudi fashion industry, cementing it as a strategic sector for diversifying non-oil income and making it a powerful tool to strengthen the Kingdom’s cultural presence globally while establishing fashion as an influential soft power.
Here is a look at the key milestones in the development of Saudi Arabia’s fashion sector under Vision 2030.
2021 📍
The Fashion Commission began executing its strategic plans in collaboration with the French Fashion Institute by launching the first training program in luxury fashion management.
Introduced the “Saudi 100 Brands” initiative to support 100 Saudi labels through training and global promotion.
2022 📍
The first Professional Fashion Association was established under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture to serve as a platform for supporting fashion talents, developing the industry, and empowering creatives.
AlUla hosted the first fashion show by Italian house Dolce & Gabbana, staged at Jabal Ikmah and later at Maraya Hall.
2023 📍
The fashion sector’s contribution to GDP rose to 2.5%, with a market value of 30 billion dollars and projections to reach 42 billion dollars by 2028.
The sector created 320,000 direct jobs, 53% in core roles and 52% held by women.
The first edition of Riyadh Fashion Week was launched, featuring leading Saudi brands.
The Heya Hub Conference was held in partnership with Fashion Futures, becoming the region’s largest fashion and lifestyle conference, with global speakers, workshops, experiences, and lectures.
2024 📍
The Fashion Commission signed an MoU with Adidas to support Saudi designers through training programs and joint collaborations.
The official uniform of Riyadh Air, designed by Mohammed Ashi, was unveiled during Paris Haute Couture Week.
The Fashion Commission launched the Future of Sustainability initiative to promote recycling and reduce waste in the local fashion industry.
A major show by Elie Saab, titled 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab, was staged in Riyadh with global stars including Jennifer Lopez and Celine Dion in attendance.
The National Museum in Riyadh hosted Dior’s archival exhibition Designer of Dreams, featuring more than 200 pieces.
The first edition of the Saudi Fashion Awards was launched to celebrate Saudi designers and brands.
The Cultural Development Fund signed credit facility agreements exceeding 30 million SAR to support fashion projects, foster innovation, and create new job opportunities.
2025 📍
Six Saudi brands showcased their designs at Selfridges in central London, supported by the Cultural Development Fund and the Fashion Commission.
The Sustainable Ihram Initiative was officially launched to recycle used Ihram garments and reduce textile waste.
The first branch of the Istituto Marangoni opened in Riyadh’s KAFD, offering specialized programs and partial scholarships for talents.
11 Saudi designers took part in the Tranoï Showroom during Paris Fashion Week, and 9 Saudi brands participated in Tokyo Fashion Week.
In partnership with Kering, the Generations × Saudi Arabia Sustainability Award was launched, recognizing three Saudi innovative companies in fashion and beauty.
The Global Fashion and Beauty Summit was held in Riyadh, jointly organized by WWD, the Fashion Commission, and Fashion Futures, to connect local and global markets, promote sustainability and innovation, and attract investment.
Each of these milestones is not just a standalone achievement but part of an integrated strategic path that is transforming Saudi fashion into a renewed economic and cultural force, positioning the Kingdom at the heart of a global industry that cannot be ignored.
