Arab fashion has long been making waves beyond the region, and the BoF 500 is one place where that influence is easy to spot. The annual index by The Business of Fashion brings together the people shaping the global fashion industry, from designers and executives to entrepreneurs, creatives, and cultural figures.
Since launching in 2013, the BoF 500 has become one of fashion’s most closely watched lists, recognising names whose work has made a notable impact on the industry. Over the years, a growing group of Arab designers have earned their place, reflecting just how far the region’s fashion scene has come.
Here are some of the MENA fashion names who have made the list.
Elie Saab — Elie Saab (Class of 2013)
A true Arab fashion icon, Lebanese designer Elie Saab was part of the very first BoF 500 class in 2013. Since launching his label in Beirut in 1982, Saab has become synonymous with intricate embroidery, glamorous gowns, and red-carpet dressing, turning his Lebanese roots into a globally recognised luxury house.
Amina Muaddi — Amina Muaddi (Class of 2022)
Next up came Amina Muaddi, who joined the list in 2022. The Romanian-Jordanian designer launched her namesake footwear brand in 2018 and quickly became known for her sculptural heels, crystal details, and instantly recognisable silhouettes. From celebrities to fashion insiders, her shoes have become a serious red-carpet favourite.
Mohamed Benchellal — Benchellal (Class of 2022)
Moroccan-Dutch designer Mohamed Benchellal joined the BoF 500 in 2022, bringing his distinctive take on couture to the list. Known for sculptural silhouettes, clever use of fabric, and dramatic yet polished designs, Benchellal has built a name for creating statement pieces that feel both modern and rooted in his Moroccan heritage. His inclusion also highlights the growing presence of North African talent on the global fashion scene.
Mohammed Ashi – Ashi Studio (Class of 2023)
Saudi designer Mohammed Ashi joined the BoF 500 in 2023, becoming the first Saudi designer to make the list. Through his Paris-based Ashi Studio, he has built a signature around dramatic, sculptural couture and statement silhouettes, dressing stars including Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and Cardi B.
Rami Al-Ali — Rami Al Ali Couture (Class of 2023)
Syrian designer Rami Al-Ali also joined the 2023 class. After building his career in Dubai, Al-Ali took his elegant, ethereal couture to an international audience, with his gowns worn by global names including Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Naomi Campbell.
Ahmed Hassan — KML (Class of 2025)
By 2025, a newer generation was entering the conversation. Ahmed Hassan, co-founder and creative director of Saudi menswear label KML, joined the BoF 500. Founded with his sister Razan, KML blends Saudi cultural references with contemporary, minimalist, and gender-fluid design, giving traditional influences a distinctly modern spin.
Shahd AlShehail — Abadia (Class of 2026)
The newest name on our list is Saudi designer Shahd AlShehail, founder of Abadia, who joined the BoF 500 in 2026. Founded in 2019, the label draws on Saudi heritage, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling while reworking traditional techniques into contemporary fashion. In 2021, Abadia also became the first Saudi label to join Net-a-Porter.
From Elie Saab’s enduring couture legacy to a new generation reimagining culture through fashion, the MENA names on the BoF 500 tell a pretty clear story: the region’s fashion scene is only getting bigger.
And with each new addition, MENA designers are bringing a little more of the region’s creativity, craftsmanship, and identity to the global fashion conversation.
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