Every year, The Business of Fashion (BoF) 500 celebrates the individuals shaping the fashion world—not just through aesthetics, but through the ideas, movements, and industries they influence. This year’s list includes four remarkable figures from the Arab world, whose work bridges heritage and modernity, local roots and global recognition.
From Cairo to Riyadh, Tunis to Beirut, these figures show that regional creativity has moved beyond representation to becoming a driving force in global fashion.
What Is the BoF 500?
Created by The Business of Fashion, the BoF 500 is a definitive index of the people transforming the global fashion and creative ecosystem. Spanning designers, media figures, executives, and entrepreneurs, it’s often seen as fashion’s equivalent of the Time 100. Making the list is more than a career milestone—it’s a signifier of cultural impact, innovation, and influence across industries.
Ahmed Hassan – Saudi Arabia
As co-founder of KML, Riyadh-based designer Ahmed Hassan brings an architectural precision to Saudi menswear. His minimalist approach reflects a new wave of Saudi fashion that merges cultural identity with modern design.
Tara Emad – Egypt
Egyptian actress and model Tara Emad has established herself as a leading figure in regional fashion and film. As Chanel’s first fragrance and beauty ambassador for the Middle East and a regional face for Cartier, she reflects the growing visibility of Arab talent in global luxury. She continues to expand her acting career with roles in Egyptian and international productions, including on Netflix.
Adnan Houdrouge – Lebanon
Lebanese businessman Adnan Houdrouge is the founder of Mercure International, a major retail group linking global fashion brands with markets across Africa and the Middle East. His work has expanded the presence of labels such as Tommy Hilfiger and Nike in the region, with the company now run alongside his family.
Sofia Guellaty – Tunisia
Tunisian editor and entrepreneur Sofia Guellaty shines a spotlight on Arab youth culture through fashion, music, and art. Her work offers a contemporary view of regional creativity, giving visibility to stories and voices often overlooked.
Why It Matters
The inclusion of these Arab figures in the BoF 500 goes far beyond individual recognition—it signals a global shift. The Middle East and North Africa are no longer on the periphery of fashion; they’re helping shape its next chapter.
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