There is no doubt that Saudi Arabia’s fashion sector is experiencing tangible and rapid growth, now at the height of its commercial momentum. Much of the credit goes to the continuous efforts of the Fashion Commission since its launch in 2020, as it has consistently sought out opportunities and collaborations to drive the sector’s development.
Among its key initiatives are, but not limited to:
The opening of branches of several international institutes in Saudi Arabia.
Supporting and showcasing over 100 Saudi brands through the “Saudi 100 Brands” program.
Hosting fashion weeks in Riyadh and showrooms in global fashion capitals such as Paris, Milan, and New York to promote awareness and encourage foreign investment.
All of this is remarkable and inspiring. Yet, for the foundations and framework of this sector to be complete across all levels, I feel it is essential in this article to highlight a few critical elements that are central to shaping this billion-dollar market. According to the latest Fashion Commission reports, revenues from Saudi Arabia’s fashion market reached USD 30 billion in 2023, and are projected to hit USD 42 billion by 2028.
If these elements are properly addressed, we will have a truly world-class fashion market, one defined by high standards, constant renewal, a distinct cultural identity, and a clear methodology that makes it difficult to rival.
Elements That Require Attention and Action
1. A Saudi Size Chart
It is essential to ensure inclusivity in fashion sizing, particularly larger sizes, as people with obesity represent 23.1% of the population according to the latest report from the Ministry of Health in collaboration with the General Authority for Statistics. It would also be encouraging to see plus-size models represented on runways in the future.
Why not create a dedicated Saudi size chart that reflects the unique body structure of women in the Kingdom, which often does not align with international sizing standards? Today, many women rely on trial and error to find the right fit, a process that diminishes the shopping experience and creates hesitation and uncertainty over what might actually work for them.
To build such a chart, Saudi designers should collaborate with academic institutions to gather reliable statistics and research, or alternatively, develop sizing charts based on data from their own customer base. The Fashion Commission should then review this information, consolidate the findings, and issue an official unified chart to be adopted by all fashion brands.
2. Sustainability
Although sustainability is often discussed, only a few brands are truly practicing it. Many designers are still unaware of the impact of fashion production and the damage it causes to the environment. This makes it crucial to treat sustainability as a core priority and begin applying it in meaningful ways, such as using natural or recycled materials to help reduce the pollution caused by fashion manufacturing, particularly carbon emissions.
3. Diversity
The abaya and ready-to-wear markets currently dominate the Saudi fashion scene, while there is a noticeable lack of sportswear and, more specifically, footwear.
Given the growing awareness and strong trend toward sports and fitness, whether gym training, swimming, or tennis, it is vital to address this gap by offering sportswear that meets international standards, delivers excellent quality, and most importantly, comes at reasonable prices that are often missing in global sports brands.
The same applies to footwear, where production in the Saudi market is almost non-existent. In fact, as I write this article, only one example comes to mind: designer Noura AlHarthi’s attempt. It is time we channel our thinking toward innovation and creativity to fill this gap in the Saudi market.
4. Pricing vs. Quality
Pricing remains one of the most controversial topics in Saudi fashion. The way products are priced often seems unclear and, to many customers, illogical. Some consumers view certain items as overpriced, as if the goal were profit at the expense of quality, design, and brand value.
For local products to gain stronger appeal, brands must present them in a way that allows customers to understand what goes into their making by detailing the materials used, the craftsmanship, and the fine details that add value. Including this information in the product’s description builds trust between brand and customer. It encourages them to buy with confidence, recognizing the quality delivered.
Despite all the points mentioned above, the Saudi market holds undeniable strength and advantages over other Gulf and Arab markets. It is also one of the fastest-growing and most dynamic. Since the Fashion Commission launched in 2020, the sector has achieved remarkable milestones: attracting talent, offering full support, and hosting Riyadh Fashion Week, which in just two years delivered a unique experience and impressive success in terms of the shows presented, the names involved, and the strong international presence.
The event has been widely praised across social media platforms, turning global attention toward Riyadh as it works to cement its position as one of the world’s fashion capitals.
