Saudi designers share inspiration behind Saudi Cup fashion

The Saudi 100 Brands exhibition is organized by the Saudi Fashion Commission, which created the program to select the best 100 fashion labels in the Kingdom to present their work globally. (AN photos/Huda Bashatah)
Short Url
Updated 25 February 2023
Follow

Saudi designers share inspiration behind Saudi Cup fashion

  • Regional influencers and style icons are setting trends with custom-made designs created specifically for the event
  • The hand-made designer ensemble for Al-Rumaihi has over 700,000 beads and was inspired by the culture of the Kingdom’s Asir region, Al-Dhahri told Arab News

RIYADH: Regional fashion influencers and style icons are setting trends at the Saudi Cup this weekend with custom-made designs created specifically for the event.

One of the designers in the spotlight is Nour Al-Dhahri, who launched a Saudi luxury label under her own name in 2013 and is dressing Saudi influencer Nojoud Al-Rumaihi.

The hand-made designer ensemble for Al-Rumaihi has over 700,000 beads and was inspired by the culture of the Kingdom’s Asir region, Al-Dhahri told Arab News.




The entrepreneur opted for shades of blue and white to give “a relaxation and warmth feel.” (Supplied)

“We were inspired by the inscriptions they do — they have inscriptions on the walls and buildings, and this is what inspired us,” she said.

Al-Dhahri said that the region, located in the southwest of the country, was known for wheat and agriculture, so she and her team decided to add stem designs to the creation to reflect the history of the province. 

The gown, which took over two months to make, is made up of two pieces — a form-fitting plain dress and a cutout cape with a long train.

“When (Al-Rumaihi) walks, it will give a royal feel. It will look like a veil, but it is part of the dress,” Al-Dhahri said.

The entrepreneur opted for shades of blue and white to give “a relaxation and warmth feel.”




The hand-made designer ensemble for Al-Rumaihi has over 700,000 beads. (Supplied)

Al-Dhahri also created a special headpiece, with the same colors as the ensemble, “that perfectly fits the horse-race vibes,” she said.

“Horse races are always accompanied by crazy and creative hats — a piece of art.”

After Al-Rumaihi wears the dress, which weighs around 14 kg, it will be put on display at the Saudi 100 Brands fashion exhibition at the event.




(AN Photo Huda Bashatah)

“She (Al-Rumaihi) is the perfect person to represent us,” said Al-Dhahri. “We are proud that Nojoud is Saudi. She is an influencer who worked with international brands like Fendi, Gucci and Graff. She always gets special invites to Paris and Milan. So, we carefully chose the person to represent the dress.

“She is amazing and the outfits always look amazing on her,” the designer added. “She has Arabian features. We wanted someone calm, because, as I told you, the dress represents calmness and relaxation, and all these features are in Nojoud. So when she wears it, she will represent the dress from within.”




(AN Photo Huda Bashatah)

The Saudi 100 Brands exhibition is organized by the Saudi Fashion Commission, which created the program to select the best 100 fashion labels in the Kingdom to present their work globally.

Al-Dhahri said that she is “honored and proud to represent Saudi Arabia internationally.”

The exhibition at the Saudi Cup marks her first participation with the Saudi 100 Brands.




(AN Photo Huda Bashatah)

“There is more to come,” she added.

Two friends, Carlotta, who is also representing Noura Al-Dhahri, and Elisabetta, wearing Saudi brand Heart and Spirit, traveled from Italy to attend the Saudi Cup.

While the Kingdom is not a country they would usually think of visiting, they feel proud to represent Saudi brands as part of the country’s development.

“I chose this design because of the beautiful cobalt blue. I love the embroidery, and it reminds me as well of both Italy and Saudi, and I think that’s a beautiful mix. It’s wonderful to support designers in Saudi, especially women. It feels like we’re in a time of great change,” Carlotta told Arab News.




Danya Bin Saedan in Ivory Fashion. (Supplied)

Elisabetta sported a modern white silhouette dress with gold accenting prints inspired by historical designs.

“It’s a great way to honor the Saudi Cup and this tradition. I’m really proud to be Italian, but at the same time, I’m honored to represent a Saudi brand here in its own country,” she said.

Fellow Saudi 100 Brands designer Noura Alghilaisy has taken a more sentimental approach to her designs for public speaker and journalist Abrar Bahabri. Her brand is a tribute to strong Saudi women, balancing modernity, femininity and tradition.

Alghilaisy grew up with equestrian patriotism in her blood, as her father, Said, is a stable master at Ennabi Stables.




(AN Photo Huda Bashatah)

She admires the speed and strength of the horses, comparing both qualities to the swift developments of a changing nation and the many achievements in the fashion sector.

“I see that in my own brand. It gives that beautiful feminine look, accentuating the curves, but deep inside the women wearing it have so much strength,” she told Arab News.

For her featured Saudi Cup design, Alghilaisy has incorporated native embroidery and sharabat (tassels), local to the region, as well as a cape motif.

“The cape is an alternative to the abaya. It’s modest but edgy at the same time, which is similar to my brand,” she said.




(AN Photo Huda Bashatah)

The ensemble’s magenta burgundy shade is a tribute to her father’s stables, whose name roughly translates to the same shade. Viva magenta is also the color of the year for 2023.

“I want women to progress from a local to an international market. And there was a big gap to bridge before the initiatives of the Ministry of Culture to highlight these efforts within the Kingdom,” Alghilaisy said.

“Fashion is a great way to represent our culture and our country, and it’s also an extremely important international platform.

“Being part of the Saudi Cup meant so much more to me when I saw the pride in my dad’s eyes being involved in this sector. Fashion has also been part of this sector, but no one has left their mark in this way.”




(AN Photo Huda Bashatah)

Fashion designer Mashael Aldraei, founder of Saudi 100 Brands Ivory Fashion, took inspiration from Subalat Al-Mudi in Diriyah and the common theme of triangles within Saudi architecture.

She designed an exclusive dress for influencer and self-care advocate Zainab Al-Khalifah, founder of Zoz Lash Salon.

Each of Aldraei’s designs incorporates a modern take on King Abdulaziz’s agal, including the outfit she is representing at the Saudi Cup, highlighting the heritage of the Kingdom with natural tones found within the environment.

She also dressed businesswoman and influencer Danya bin Saedan.

“I used the soft pink tones for Zainab because she stands for the very essence of femininity, and I used the burgundy tone with Danya because it represents luxury,” Aldraei told Arab News.


Strict security in Makkah targets Hajj violations

Security patrols in Makkah arrested 2 Indonesian residents after they posted deceptive social media ads for fake Hajj campaigns.
Updated 5 sec ago
Follow

Strict security in Makkah targets Hajj violations

  • Ministry of Interior reminded the public that entering Makkah without a Hajj permit from April 29 to June 10 is prohibited. (@makkahregion)

MAKKAH: Security patrols in Makkah arrested two Indonesian residents for fraud after they posted deceptive social media ads for fake Hajj campaigns, falsely promising accommodation and transportation within the holy sites.

In a separate case, Makkah police arrested two Kyrgyz residents for posting fraudulent ads targeting visit visa holders, misleading them into believing they could perform Hajj without a permit.

The suspects transported 87 visa holders and housed them in two rented locations in Makkah for a fee, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Sunday.

Legal action has been taken against them, and they have been referred to the Public Prosecution. The visa violators were also referred to the relevant authorities for legal penalties.

The General Directorate of Public Security urged all citizens and residents to follow Hajj regulations and report violations by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh, Madinah, and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions.

Hajj Security Forces at Makkah’s entrances also arrested seven residents and eight citizens for transporting 61 individuals without Hajj permits, according to the SPA.

The Ministry of Interior issued administrative decisions against the transporters, accomplices, and those transported.

Penalties include imprisonment, fines of up to SR100,000 ($26,600), public naming, deportation of residents, and a 10-year re-entry ban after sentencing.

The ministry also called for the confiscation of vehicles used in unauthorized transport and fines of up to SR20,000 for those attempting to perform Hajj without a permit.

It urged full compliance with Hajj regulations to ensure pilgrim safety and reminded the public that entering Makkah without a Hajj permit from April 29 to June 10 is prohibited.


Food and drug checks intensify ahead of Hajj

Updated 2 min 59 sec ago
Follow

Food and drug checks intensify ahead of Hajj

RIYADH: The Saudi Food and Drug Authority is continuing its proactive inspection campaigns as part of preparations for the Hajj season.

The authority has conducted more than 1,329 field visits to food, medicine and medical device warehouses in Makkah and Madinah so far.

These ongoing inspections and awareness efforts have led to a notable increase in compliance among facilities storing food and medicine for pilgrims, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

During the visits, inspection teams identified several warehouses that breached approved technical requirements and took the necessary legal actions.

As a result, 44 warehouses were closed, and 349 violations were recorded, according to the SPA.

To raise awareness, the authority launched a multilingual campaign that includes brochures outlining key product-handling requirements. It aims to improve safety and compliance at all facilities serving pilgrims.

The authority intensifies efforts each Hajj season to ensure food, medicine, and medical products meet safety standards, helping minimize health risks and protect pilgrims’ well-being.


KSrelief sends vaccine to Syrian pilgrims for Hajj

Updated 14 min 48 sec ago
Follow

KSrelief sends vaccine to Syrian pilgrims for Hajj

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief has provided 25,000 doses of the meningitis vaccine to Syrian pilgrims at the request of the Syrian Ministry of Health.

The vaccines are being administered in preparation for the pilgrims’ upcoming Hajj journey to the holy sites of Makkah and Madinah, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ministry of the Syrian Arab Republic expressed its appreciation for the prompt response, describing the support as characteristic of Saudi Arabia and its leadership.

Through KSrelief, the Kingdom has consistently provided vital aid to the Syrian people while addressing their most urgent needs, the SPA added.

This support highlights Saudi Arabia’s continued commitment to assisting nations and communities worldwide with critical medical supplies.

KSrelief recently concluded seven medical projects in Damascus as part of the Saudi Amal Volunteer Program.

The week-long initiatives included cardiac surgery and catheterization, orthopedics and joint surgery, prosthetics and rehabilitation, pediatric surgery, pediatric urology, and treatment for blindness and related conditions.


AlUla’s rawi historians tell tales as old as time

Updated 42 min 3 sec ago
Follow

AlUla’s rawi historians tell tales as old as time

  • Storytellers keep oral tradition alive by guiding tourists in ancient city
  • Reciters of poetry tell the stories of historic sites 

JEDDAH: In the timeless landscape of AlUla, stories are not only carved or marked into rock — they are carried in the hearts and voices of its people.

Among those preserving and sharing memories is Aljawharah Ibrahim Abdulkarim, a rawi — or oral storyteller — in the heritage, culture and events department at the Royal Commission for AlUla.

She told Arab News: “Several years ago I took a number of tour guiding courses and decided to pursue a career in this field. I was born and raised in AlUla, so I grew up hearing stories and learning about AlUla Old Town from my parents and relatives who lived there, which allowed me to better understand the history of the site.”

Storytelling for Abdulkarim is not just a job, but a mission. As a native of AlUla, she offers a rare blend of authenticity and academic insight, which she weaves into the tours she leads.

She added: “Since I’ve lived in AlUla my entire life, I’ve witnessed its amazing transformation over the years. Through my work as a rawi I’ve also seen firsthand the exciting future that lies ahead for this unique place. All of these experiences have helped enrich my personal story of AlUla.”

The rawi has historically played an important role in Arab culture, serving as a reciter of poetry and stories.

A trilingual speaker — fluent in her native Arabic, as well as in English and French — Abdulkarim represents the next generation of rawis that will show, and tell, the tales of their ancestors.

She said: “I first started learning English in AlUla. Later, I had the opportunity to travel to France on an RCU scholarship created especially for AlUla students. While there I learned French and obtained my master’s degree in international hospitality management.”

Her ability to connect with international visitors became a key asset, and she added: “The fact that I am a trilingual rawi helps me to better understand the different tourists that come to AlUla, offer more personalized responses to their questions, and share with them the special story of AlUla.

“I’ve also had the chance to represent AlUla and my colleagues across several conferences and campaigns in the Kingdom and globally, connecting me with an even broader audience.”

While much research has been devoted to ancient sites like Dadan and Hegra, Abdulkarim is passionate about shedding light on AlUla — especially the human stories of AlUla’s Old Town.

She said: “There is a lot of available historical information and research for different ancient civilizations, especially for sites in Dadan and Hegra. However, when it comes to places like AlUla Old Town, it is quite different as we are talking about contemporary history.”

What sets her storytelling apart is her commitment to blending historical accuracy with personal memory — without conflating the two.

She said: “The people who once lived there are still with us today, and they’re able to share their stories in their own words.

“During my tours I usually start by sharing historical facts, and then I include memories from my father and family. I make sure to keep the two separate, so the history and personal stories are both respected and clearly understood.”

Beyond those narratives, Abdulkarim regularly invites other community members to lend their voices to the tours.

She added: “During our tours we also invite members of the local community to participate by sharing their stories and knowledge, helping us to tell the broader history of AlUla, through the voices of those who have lived it.”

These efforts are especially resonant during themed tours in which the history is deeply personal.

She added: “For example, during one of our special tours in Ramadan, called Ramadan Memories, my father contributed by sharing how the people of Old Town used to spend the holy month, recounting their daily routines, the food they prepared, their work, and their cherished traditions. In doing so, we offer our valued guests a truly unique and personal experience.”

Preserving and presenting heritage in such moments is more than recounting stories — it is about keeping the very culture and voice alive for future generations.

She said: “Sharing our heritage with people is crucial to prevent it from being lost, especially as elements of heritage can also be intangible.

“AlUla is a jewel to us, and persevering the heritage of the city not only helps to protect our past but also safeguards our present and shapes our future.”

That future is being actively protected, and she added: “Today, for example, we have the first Saudi Heritage Ranger team that are working hard to protect our tangible heritage in our historical and archaeological sites for the coming generations.”

In AlUla, the past is not forgotten: It is spoken, heard and passed down with pride. Through voices like Abdulkarim’s, these stories — some as old as time — are finding new ears.


Tourism minister launches Saudi Summer program

The event brought together more than 120 partners from across the Kingdom’s tourism ecosystem.
Updated 54 min 12 sec ago
Follow

Tourism minister launches Saudi Summer program

  • New campaign features six destinations, 600 experiences, and aims to welcome 41m visitors
  • Program highlights include Esports World Cup, new resorts, and cultural festivals across the Kingdom

RIYADH: Minister of Tourism and Chairman of the Saudi Tourism Authority Ahmed Al-Khateeb launched the Saudi Summer program under the theme “Color Your Summer” at a workshop recently organized by the authority in Riyadh.

The event brought together more than 120 partners from across the Kingdom’s tourism ecosystem, including representatives from both the public and private sectors.

The workshop fostered collaboration ahead of the summer season, aligning efforts to achieve the program’s goals and maximize its economic and tourism impact.

Running from May to September 2025, the Saudi Summer program will feature six distinct destinations — from the moderate coastal escapes of Jeddah and the Red Sea to the cool, scenic highlands of Taif, Baha, and Asir.

Key highlights include the Esports World Cup in Riyadh from July to August, along with the vibrant Jeddah and Asir seasons, offering diverse events, activities, and promotional campaigns.

“Bringing together our partners each year through this workshop is a testament to our shared commitment to shaping the future of the Saudi tourism industry,” Al-Khateeb said.

He added: “This year, we are encouraged to see the private sector contributing more than SR300 million ($80 million) in preparation for what promises to be an incredible summer. With its rich culture and breathtaking diversity, Saudi Arabia continues to inspire travelers from around the world while fueling a vibrant domestic tourism scene.”

Al-Khateeb noted that summer is more than just a peak travel period — it is a key opportunity for the sector to innovate, grow, and make a lasting impact.

“This year, we aim to welcome more than 41 million visitors from 18 countries and achieve SR73 billion in total tourism spending. These numbers reflect Saudi Arabia’s growing reputation as a world-class destination, offering unforgettable experiences year-round,” he said.

Fahd Hamidaddin, CEO of the Saudi Tourism Authority, emphasized the transformational nature of the Kingdom’s tourism offerings: “Saudi is redefining how the world views summer travel. In partnership with more than 120 stakeholders, this summer will introduce more than 600 unique tourism products and experiences, along with more than 250 special offers.”

He added: “From the pristine islands of Shebara and Umhat along the Red Sea, to iconic new luxury resorts such as St. Regis and Desert Rock, to five new beaches in Jeddah, and the cool retreats of Asir, Taif, and Baha — Saudi Arabia is turning every visit into a vibrant summer highlight reel.”

The program’s theme, “Color Your Summer,” reflects the diversity of Saudi Arabia’s tourism assets. It is designed to meet the expectations of various types of tourists, offering coastal and mountain destinations, international events, exclusive offers, and a wide range of tourism experiences across the Kingdom.