American fashion house Oscar de la Renta is partnering with the Design Council Abu Dhabi (DCAD) to launch the inaugural Fashion and Design Residency Program. Spearheaded by H.H. Sheikha Shamsa Bint Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, the initiative is poised to transform the UAE’s fashion industry by nurturing its next generation of female designers.
Hosted at Abu Dhabi University, the DCAD Fashion and Design Residency is a first-of-its-kind programme tailored to empower emerging female designers. Combining global mentorship with sustainable practices the initiative aims to position Abu Dhabi as a hub for contemporary fashion innovation while, at the same time, preserving its cultural identity.
Creative Director Laura Kim of Oscar de la Renta will lead the programme, delivering a masterclass and guiding participants through the intricacies of high fashion. The top three graduates will secure a three-month internship at Oscar de la Renta’s New York studio in January 2026. Laura Kim said, “I’m thrilled to explore the incredible talent emerging from the UAE and to learn from the region’s rich culture. This program is a platform to share knowledge and bring global attention to Middle Eastern designers who deserve recognition.”
Participants will benefit from an in-depth curriculum, hands-on mentorship from industry leaders, and opportunities for cultural exchange. Through these experiences, the programme aspires to prepare designers to address both local and international challenges in the ever-evolving fashion landscape.
The programme reflects DCAD’s mission to cultivate a dynamic and sustainable design culture in the UAE, under the governance of Undersecretary Rana Kuzayli El Khoury, Vice Chairwoman Nadine Maalouf, and an advisory committee including prominent figures like Rym Al Falasy and Rima Al Mokarrab.
The programme will select 10 to 15 female UAE Nationals and residents with a background in fashion design and a passion for creativity. The winning candidates will be announced in December before the residency starts in January 2025.
Visit dcad.ae to apply
