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Saudi Arabia hosts first-ever swimsuit fashion show

The show was part of the inaugural Red Sea Fashion Week and was held at the St. Regis Red Sea Resort, near Saudi Arabia’s western coast

By Web Desk
May 18, 2024
A model presents a creation from the summer beachwear collection by Moroccan designer Yasmina Q, during the Red Sea Fashion Week in Saudi Arabia´s Red Sea resort of Ummahat Island on May 17, 2024. — AFP
A model presents a creation from the summer beachwear collection by Moroccan designer Yasmina Q, during the Red Sea Fashion Week in Saudi Arabia´s Red Sea resort of Ummahat Island on May 17, 2024. — AFP

In a bid to modernise Saudi Arabia, Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman is rapidly transforming the country’s landscape.

From launching futuristic projects such as the Neom project to holding its first-ever swimsuit fashion show, the kingdom has come a long way.

Saudi Arabia held its first-ever swimsuit show on Friday, which featured the work of Moroccan designer Yasmina Qanzal.

Her collection mostly included one-piece suits in shades of red, beige, and blue. Qanzal’s choice of colours and designs was an attempt to showcase the culture and history of the Arab world.

Models present creations of Saudi designer Tima Abid during a show at the Red Sea Fashion Week in Saudi Arabia´s Ummahat Island on May 16, 2024. — AFP/File
Models present creations of Saudi designer Tima Abid during a show at the Red Sea Fashion Week in Saudi Arabia´s Ummahat Island on May 16, 2024. — AFP/File

She said: "It’s true that this country is very conservative, but we tried to show elegant swimsuits that represent the Arab world."

Adding, she said: "It is an honour to be involved in such a historic moment."

The show was part of the inaugural Red Sea Fashion Week and was held at the St. Regis Red Sea Resort, near Saudi Arabia’s western coast.

A model presents a creation of Saudi designer Tima Abid during a show at the Red Sea Fashion Week in Saudi Arabia´s Ummahat Island on May 16, 2024. — AFp/File
A model presents a creation of Saudi designer Tima Abid during a show at the Red Sea Fashion Week in Saudi Arabia´s Ummahat Island on May 16, 2024. — AFp/File

The resort is part of the Red Sea Global projects, which are at the heart of MBS's 2030 Vision.

In October 2024, Saudi Arabia is also set to host its official fashion week, the Riyadh Fashion Week, which will showcase designs that merge traditions and innovations.