Designing the Future of Fashion in Saudi

Istituto Marangoni Riyadh hosts an engaging conversation on fashion education

Riyadh welcomed a thoughtful exchange of ideas as Istituto Marangoni Riyadh hosted a panel discussion titled Designing the Future of Fashion in Saudi. The event gathered leading names from the fashion and education sectors to explore how learning, mentorship, and collaboration are redefining the Kingdom’s creative landscape.

The conversation was led by fashion journalist and author Sujata Assomull, who moderated a panel featuring Ingie Chalhoub, Founder and President of Étoile Group and long-time mentor at Istituto Marangoni, Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Fashion Commission, and Anna Zinola, School and Education Director at Istituto Marangoni Riyadh. Together, they reflected on how education continues to anchor Saudi Arabia’s progress toward Vision 2030 and the creative economy it is building.

A foundation for creative growth

The panelists spoke about the importance of education as both a creative and economic force. They discussed how Istituto Marangoni’s presence in Riyadh is helping to equip young designers and entrepreneurs with the knowledge, technical ability, and confidence to thrive within an evolving global industry. The discussion highlighted the growing relationship between industry mentorship and education, and how this partnership will accelerate the professional development of Saudi talent.

Chalhoub shared her perspective on nurturing emerging designers, emphasizing the power of guidance in shaping identity and skill. Cakmak outlined how the Fashion Commission continues to open pathways for Saudi creatives to gain access to opportunities, resources, and international exposure.

The new creative classroom

Located in King Abdullah Financial District (KAFD), Istituto Marangoni Riyadh opened its doors in August 2025 with advanced training diplomas in Fashion Design, Fashion Management, Fashion Product, Fashion Communication & Image, and Fragrances & Cosmetics Management. Beginning in January, new professional courses will focus on subjects such as pattern cutting, retail management, visual merchandising, and digital design for fashion. The programs emphasize innovation, including the application of artificial intelligence within the design process.

Through close collaboration with the Fashion Commission, the school aims to create a bridge between education and industry, linking Saudi students to an international network of mentors and professionals. The result is a curriculum that balances creative expression with business insight, preparing graduates to contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s growing fashion sector.

A creative ecosystem in motion

Saudi Arabia’s creative economy is rapidly expanding, with projections that the sector will contribute 2.6 percent to GDP by 2025 and generate more than 340,000 jobs. As the country invests in both infrastructure and talent, education remains the foundation on which this creative ecosystem will continue to grow.

For Istituto Marangoni Riyadh, Designing the Future of Fashion in Saudi marked more than a discussion. It represented a shared belief that learning, mentorship, and collaboration will shape the next generation of Saudi designers who are ready to lead on a global stage.