From France to London, each fashion capital has a designated council. And the Arab world is no different.
Encompassing 22 countries in the MENA regions, the Arab Fashion Council is a non-profit organisation that platforms the creatives of the region. From niche photographers to triumphant designers and even creative directors, the council acts as a pipeline from the region to the rest of the world.
Responsible for countless scholarships, the burgeoning Dubai Fashion Week, the newly launched Institute of Innovative Fashion and much more, it refuses to be constrained to a single avenue. Instead, it builds a comprehensive system for Arab fashion and creativity to flourish and expand across sectors.
From the founders and leader to the notable names it’s elevated, here is everything you need to know behind the powerhouse that is the Arab Fashion Council.
Who is behind the Arab Fashion Council?
Jacob Abrian
The youngest appointed CEO for a council, Jacob Abrian has been a trailblazing name in the industry for some time now. Under his lead, Arab Fashion Week (now re-branded to Dubai Fashion Week), was launched in 2015. It has since overseen renowned designers, from Carolina Herrera to Jean Paul Gaultier to Moschino, take the stage. In his early 20s he blazed through Europe, cementing himself as a steadfast Arab model through work with Roberto Cavalli, Ermanno Scervino and more.
Mohammed Aqra
Another notable name within the Arab Fahion Council is Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 recipient Mohammed Aqra. Cofounder and Chief Strategy Officer of the organisation, this Jordanian creative entrepreneur plays an integral role in building a fashion economy in the MENA region. Engrossed in staggering business background, he simultaneously sits on the board of investment, and fintech companies as well. From manufacturing to raw materials to retail the AFC takes a holistic approach to system building. Mohammed is tasked with both internal operation and external strategic growth within the council.
Khadija Al Bastaki
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Since 2021, the Arab Fashion Council has been based in the heart of Dubai Design District and it’s a partnership which has blossomed over the last three years, which is a credit to Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of d3. “This strategic partnership is important for the sustainable growth and development of the region’s fashion and haute couture industries that, much like many other sectors, need to rethink the regular to thrive in the post-pandemic world,” she said of the partnership in 2021.
Maha Haider
A creative who knows no parameters, Maha is a multidisciplinary artists and director with a Palestinian background. The Arab Fashion Council elaborates on this Arab creative’s distinct vision through her avant-garde creative agency.
Mrs Keepa
Coming to Dubai Fashion Week in just a few short days, Mrs Keepa is a sustainable luxury brand founded by French Egyptian designer Mariam Yeya, AKA Keepa herself. From asymmetrical denim maxi skirts to upcycled football jerseys, her brand exudes an rugged it girl cool .
Rani Fawaz
From Rihanna, to Naomi Campbell to a recent addition of Georgina Rodriguez at the Joy Awards, this Lebanese photographer has been climbing heights. Rani Fawaz has also celebrated with regional creatives and stars, showing his limitless reach and connection to the region.
Bil Arabi
Blending calligraphy with gold, Nadine Kanso creates wearable art through her jewellery liner Bil Arabi. One of the most exciting brands that the Arab region has birth she centres her DNA in her designs, while adding modernity and invocation to every approach.
Zaid Al Lozi
From water to the sky, this visual/conceptual Arab artist pulls inspiration from every facet of this earth for his world-bending work. Based in Amman Jordan, Zaid Al Lozi exudes a loudness and vibrancy that only his eye seems to capture. From texture to composition, his creative vision is proven untouchable through each creation.
