Riyadh wrapped up its third fashion week on October 22, 2025, with British designer Stella McCartney delivering a stunning closing show at the King Abdullah Financial District. This event spotlighted sustainable fashion and local talent, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030 goals to boost the creative economy and attract global attention.
Event Draws Global Stars and Local Pride
Fashion lovers from across the Middle East gathered in Riyadh for six days of runway shows and presentations. The week kicked off with Vivienne Westwood’s bold opening, blending punk style with Saudi elements, and ended with McCartney’s eco-friendly collection.
Crowds filled venues like palm groves and luxury hotels, turning the city into a hub of style and culture. Celebrities such as Georgina Rodriguez added star power, while the Kingdom Center tower lit up with fashion projections, drawing eyes from afar.
This year’s lineup featured over 30 shows, a record high, mixing international names with rising Saudi brands. Organizers aimed to showcase the kingdom’s growing role in global fashion.
Stella McCartney Brings Sustainable Style to Saudi Arabia
McCartney made her Middle East debut with pieces from her spring summer 2026 and autumn winter 2025 lines. She focused on ethical materials, staying true to her brand’s values.
The show highlighted innovative fabrics that caught everyone’s attention. Models walked in outfits made from plant-based sequins and vegan leather alternatives, proving fashion can be kind to the planet.
Audience members, including local influencers, wore her designs, creating buzz. McCartney shared a message of solidarity and sustainability, inspiring the crowd.
Her presence marked a milestone, as Riyadh Fashion Week invited big names to elevate the event. This move helps position Saudi Arabia as a fashion destination.
Local Designers Steal the Spotlight
Saudi labels took center stage, blending heritage with modern twists. Brands like Hindamme and Arwa Al Banawi presented collections inspired by local culture.
Hindamme’s Hejaz Collection paid tribute to the western province with monochrome dresses and silk pieces. Arwa Al Banawi mixed bold patterns and elegant lines in her fall 2025 show.
Other highlights included Tima Abid’s intricate designs and Atelier Hekayat’s storytelling through fabric. These shows celebrated Saudi identity while appealing to global tastes.
- Hindamme: Focused on cultural tributes with knit cardigans and full-length gowns.
- Arwa Al Banawi: Featured vibrant runway looks blending tradition and innovation.
- Femi9: Showcased empowering womenswear with a nod to modern Saudi women.
These designers showed how local talent drives the kingdom’s fashion scene forward.
Ties to Saudi Vision 2030 and Economic Growth
Riyadh Fashion Week fits into Saudi Vision 2030, the plan to diversify the economy beyond oil. The Saudi Fashion Commission leads efforts to build a thriving industry.
By hosting international events, the kingdom aims to create jobs and boost tourism. Fashion now joins sports and entertainment as key sectors for growth.
Recent data shows the Saudi fashion market grew by 12 percent in 2024, reaching over 20 billion dollars. Vision 2030 targets even more expansion through events like this.
The strategy includes training programs for young designers and partnerships with global brands. This helps nurture talent and attract investment.
| Key Vision 2030 Fashion Goals | Progress in 2025 |
|---|---|
| Job Creation in Creative Sectors | Over 50,000 new roles added since 2020 |
| Market Value Growth | Projected to hit 32 billion dollars by 2030 |
| International Events Hosted | Third Riyadh Fashion Week with global designers |
| Local Brand Support | Funding for 100 plus startups |
These steps show real impact on the economy and culture.
Challenges and Future Outlook
While the event succeeded, it faced some criticism. Vivienne Westwood’s family raised concerns about values, but the brand defended the choice as a way to spark dialogue.
Dress codes in Saudi Arabia remain conservative, yet the week allowed for creative expression. Attendees mixed traditional attire with luxury looks, highlighting evolving norms.
Looking ahead, organizers plan to expand with more international tie-ups. This could make Riyadh a regular stop on the global fashion calendar.
Experts predict the kingdom’s fashion sector will double in size by 2030, driven by events like this. Young Saudis see new opportunities in design and business.
The week proved fashion can bridge cultures and drive change. As Saudi Arabia opens up, events like this build bridges to the world.
What did you think of Stella McCartney’s show or the local designs? Share your thoughts in the comments and spread the word to keep the conversation going.
