Every August 28th, Emirati Women’s Day honors trailblazing women shaping the UAE’s cultural, social, and creative landscape. In fashion, Emirati designers have been pushing boundaries, blending heritage with bold contemporary aesthetics. From jewelry that feels like wearable art to abayas in unexpected hues, here are the brands you need to know.
Hessa Al Shafar – Savolinna
Hessa Al Shafar turned her childhood nickname (inspired by her parents’ honeymoon in Finland’s Savonlinna) into a luxury jewelry house. Since 2017, Savolinna has been all about edgy-meets-traditional pieces — think locket pendant and belly chains with charms. Everything is crafted in Dubai, fusing Emirati heritage with modern layering.
Sisters Hind & Fatma Ismail Janahi – Ailes
Sisters Hind and Fatma Ismail Janahi launched Ailes in 2021, creating jewelry that’s more like wearable art. And the inspiration? Antique vases. Bold shapes, playful colors, and subtle Emirati motifs define their collections. They’ve already been featured in US Vogue and spotted on International pop superstar Rihanna — proving Emirati design belongs on the global stage.
Fatma Al Otaiba – Odeem
Fatma Al Otaiba’s Odeem reimagines luxury handbags with architectural precision and timeless textures. Founded in 2018, the brand offers more than accessories; these leather goods are crafted to be heirlooms, mixing Emirati heritage with what Fatma calls “the New Classic.”
Sheikha Madiyah Al Sharqi – Madiyah Al Sharqi
From Fujairah to Hollywood — Madiyah Al Sharqi’s brand was founded in 2012 by the Sheikha Madiyah Al Sharqi, the daughter of the Ruler of Fujairah. It is known for effortless eveningwear with regal silhouettes. Khloe Kardashian and Sofia Vergara have worn her pieces, and her latest collab with Karen Wazen cements her as one of the UAE’s most stylish exports.
Hessa Falasi – Hessa Falasi
Since 2011, Hessa Falasi has been reinventing the abaya with bold fabrics, unexpected colors, and details like feathered hems. What started with custom designs for friends is now a go-to name in luxury modestwear. Her pieces keep the abaya’s cultural essence alive while making it feel modern and vibrant.
Asma Almatrooshi – Epiphany
Founded in 2014 by Asma Almatrooshi, Epiphany was the first brand in the region to introduce colored abayas. Their collections lean into minimalism with pastels, linens, and easy silhouettes like jumpsuits and co-ords. The result? Abayas that are chic, breathable, and anything but basic.
A New Era of Emirati Fashion
On Emirati Women’s Day, these designers remind us that style is more than trends — it’s heritage, innovation, and fearless creativity. From statement clutches to pastel abayas, Emirati women are leading fashion into the future, one design at a time.
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