Saudi fashionistas try to revamp Maldives beaches | World News

Saudi designer Tima Abid made history as her latest couture collection graced the runway at Saudi Arabia’s first Red Sea Fashion Week. The event, held at the luxurious St Regis Red Sea Resort on Ummahat Alshaikh island, marked a significant milestone for Saudi fashion and the burgeoning tourism sector in the Gulf kingdom.

Abid’s collection of “resort wear” dresses, featuring flowing white and beige fabrics, showcased the evolution of fashion in a country where conservative dress codes once prevailed. The event also included a groundbreaking show focused on women’s swimwear, pushing boundaries in a traditionally conservative Muslim society.

The fashion extravaganza attracted a diverse crowd of designers, fashion journalists, and Saudi celebrities, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s commitment to competing on a global scale in the fashion industry. The event’s remote island location and exclusive access added to the allure, with attendees comparing the experience to more established island destinations like the Maldives.

Despite ongoing challenges, including security concerns and human rights criticisms, Saudi Arabia is forging ahead with its fashion and tourism investments. The success of events like Red Sea Fashion Week underscores the kingdom’s efforts to showcase its diverse offerings and dispel stereotypes about the region.

As Saudi Arabia continues to position itself as a premier destination for fashion and tourism, events like Red Sea Fashion Week serve as a testament to the country’s commitment to innovation and growth in these key sectors.