Yesterday, Doha’s Qatar National Museum became the epicentre of global fashion energy. The 7th
edition of the Fashion Trust Arabia (FTA) Awards unfolded in a radiant display of talent, legacy, and
star power. Once again the living prove that the MENA region is not just a backdrop for fashion, but
a source of it.
Emerging Designers Take the Spotlight
The core of FTA has always been supporting emerging creatives, and this year was no exception.
From a pool of 21 finalists, seven winners were crowned across Ready-to-Wear, Eveningwear,
Accessories, Jewellery, Debut Talent, and Fashion Tech.
• Youssef Drissi (Morocco) won Ready-to-Wear with Late for Work, a study in deconstruction
and cultural tension.
• Ziyad Al Buainain (Saudi Arabia) took Eveningwear — dramatic, architectural gowns that
balanced tradition and innovation.
• Leila Roukni (Morocco) earned the Accessories award; rooted in heritage but articulated
with bold finesse.
• Farah Radwan, the Paris-based Egyptian designer behind Fyr, won Jewellery, blending
sculptural design with cultural storytelling.
• Alaa Alaradi (Bahrain) took the Franca Sozzani Debut Talent Award, while sisters Fatema
and Dalal Alkhaja earned the Fashion Tech Award.
• Kartik Kumra (India), this year’s guest country, won for his label Kartik Research, signaling
a new era of cross-cultural dialogue.
This was not just a regional fashion night, it was a global moment. The jury included heavyweights
such as Gisele Bündchen, Christian Louboutin, Giambattista Valli, Zuhair Murad, Viktor & Rolf,
and Amina Muaddi. Their presence underscored FTA’s role as a bridge between MENA talent and
international elite.
The evening also honoured Miuccia Prada with the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Zuhair
Murad with the Trailblazer Award, blending heritage with innovation.
Cultural Conversations & Legacy
Beyond the awards, FTA felt like a cultural dialogue rather than a glam showcase. Co-Chairs
Sheikha Al Mayassa and Tania Fares spoke about resilience, narrative, and the region’s creative
spirit. Honorary Chair Sheikha Moza bint Nasser’s presence reinforced the awards’ deeper mission:
investing in a lasting cultural and creative legacy.
Star-Studded Glam: Top 10 Best-Dressed
The red carpet was editorial gold. Here are VOIR’s Top 10 Best-Dressed picks, with designers
where publicly confirmed:
Gisele Bündchen — Valentino gold gown (Spring 2026)
Lindsay Lohan — The New Arrivals Ilkyaz Ozel, crystal-trimmed strapless gown
Saja Kilani — Prada
Amina Muaddi — As both designer and guest, her own shoes were the highlight
Leoni Hanne — Highlighted by Emirates Woman, look unconfirmed
Jess Hunt — Named in roundups; designer not publicly confirmed
Tyra Banks — Maison Valentino, gold corseted gown with cape sleeves
Paloma Elsesser — Alaïa, sheer black gown with dramatic headdress
Hend Sabry — Maison Valentino, molten brown gown with matching cape
Queen Latifah — Designer not confirmed, hosted the event with presence and poise
The red carpet was a visual statement of the region’s emerging influence and the global power of storytelling through style.
Why This Edition of FTA Matters
This event is not only the region’s annual gathering of the international fashion elite, it is also a
magnificent opportunity for up-and-coming designers. Winners receive grants, mentorships, and
pop-up opportunities and Harrods and Ounass. It is a cultural cross-pollination that honors legacy
and heritage while championing innovation.
Words By Fabiana Gutierrez
