New Era of Middle Eastern Fashion
Founded by Dubai Design District (d3) and the Arab Fashion Council (AFC), Dubai Fashion Week isn’t just another stop on the global fashion calendar, it’s a bold statement, a declaration that the Middle East is not only part of the conversation but actively redefining it. As the first few days unfolded starting February 1st, it became clear that DFW is more than runways and front rows; it’s a cultural phenomenon where heritage meets innovation, and tradition dances with the future.
Designers from across the region and beyond told stories stitched in rich fabrics, bold cuts, and unapologetic statements about identity, sustainability, and modern luxury. But what truly stood out was the energy: a melting-pot of youthful rebellion, timeless elegance, and the unmistakable pulse of a city that never stops evolving.
In a world where fashion capitals often recycle the same ideas, Dubai is doing something different, it’s creating its own language, rooted in history but spoken fluently in the future. And this is just the beginning.
At KHAMSA, we’ve rounded up the standout moments from the first two days of Dubai Fashion Week, capturing the key highlights that set the tone for this season.
١. Zeena Zaki F/W 2025-2026 Collection Opens DFW
Zeena Zaki wowed DFW audiences with a striking showcase of elegance and bold femininity. Featuring flowing gowns and sharp silhouettes in vibrant hues, each piece exuded grace, confidence, and refined beauty. Her collection reaffirmed Zaki’s status as a key figure in MENA’s fashion scene, setting a high standard for Dubai Fashion Week.
” I’m embracing the dark so I can reach the light; the spirals showcase the flow of energy & how I’m in sync with everything” – Zeena Zaki
٢. Weinsanto: Where Couture Meets Quirk
Weinsanto blends haute couture’s sophistication with bold eccentricity, drawing fans like Beyoncé and Madonna. A former ballet student and Jean Paul Gaultier protégé, Weinsanto’s designs fuse surreal proportions, dramatic silhouettes, and punk-inspired details. After five standout seasons at Dubai Fashion Week, he’s now part of its designers committee, cementing his role as a rising force redefining contemporary fashion with a rebellious artistic edge. He showcased his F/W 25-26 yesterday at D3.
٣. Best-Dressed at DFW
Denim on denim is having a major moment this season, and it’s anything but basic. What was once dubbed the “Canadian tuxedo” has been reimagined with fresh silhouettes, bold washes, and unexpected textures. Think oversized jackets paired with distressed jeans, corset tops matched with wide-leg denim, and layered looks that play with contrast stitching and patchwork details. Whether it’s head-to-toe indigo or mixing different denim shades, this trend proves that doubling up on denim is the ultimate style power move for 2025. Junayah El Guthmy (@Junayaah on Instagram) who is a Dubai-based fashion influencer and creative consultant known for her fresh and unapologetic style showed up to Dubai Fashion Week wearing an exquisite denim on denim outfit and we are living for it!
٤. Bisou X DFW
As the official lounge partner of Dubai Fashion Week, Bisou Dubai infused the event with its signature charm, creating a striking space where bold red tones contrasted against crisp white backdrops—perfectly reflecting the brand’s aesthetic. The chic décor, plush crimson seating, and sleek white accents set a sophisticated yet vibrant atmosphere, ideal for fashion insiders to relax and connect between shows.
Complementing the ambiance was a curated menu of artisanal desserts, freshly brewed coffees, and signature drinks, offering guests a stylish retreat to recharge in the heart of DFW. Bisou wasn’t just a lounge; it was the ultimate fusion of style, flavour, and conversation.
٥. MANEL Debuted at Dubai Fashion Week
Founded in 2019 in Dubai, Manel is the brainchild of creative director Manel Aboudaoud, who blends her Parisian roots with Arabic heritage to redefine luxury evening wear. The brand fuses timeless sophistication with modern elegance, celebrating individuality and cultural versatility.
Known for meticulous craftsmanship and empowering designs, Manel’s debut collection which took inspiration from the ‘Paris Day to Night’ collection, positioned the brand as a pioneer in luxury modest fashion.
