As the Spring/Summer 2025 fashion show season kicks off, all eyes are on Dubai as Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) returns to Dubai Design District from September 1 to 7. Now in its fourth edition and co-founded by Dubai Design District (d3) and the Arab Fashion Council, the event kick-starts the international fashion calendar, brimming with energy, creativity, and boundless potential.
Featuring both new names and old faces, over 30 designers will showcase their S/S25 collections this year, with haute couture shows the focus of the first three days and ready-to-wear collections presented the following three.
And those who spot their dream ensemble(s) on the catwalk can book a private appointment on day seven.
With a larger venue and more runway shows, presentations and networking opportunities than ever, this season will also launch d3 and the Arab Fashion Council’s International Buyers Programme for the first time. The initiative aims to elevate buyers’ reach and talent discovery, foster important connections between global retailers and DFW’s designers, and facilitate strategic partnerships, whilst reinforcing Dubai as the region’s de facto fashion capital.
With so much going on, here’s our cheat sheet of the shows to see:
The Dubai-based Lebanese designer launched her eponymous label in 2010 and is known for her glam-slam gowns and billowing kaftans celebrating the female form in every shape and size. With inclusivity at its core and her designs having been worn on the Oscars red carpet this year, we’re excited to see what Dima’s S/S25 collection has in store.
Victor Weinsanto’s boldness, creativity, and eccentricity stand out most for this luxury French ready-to-wear and haute couture brand. Presented and supported by the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, the governing body of Paris Fashion Week, and beloved by Beyoncé, the joy with Weinsanto is you never know what you’ll get next. Expect the unexpected!
A true artiste when it comes to creating and finessing complicated handwork from scratch, Amjad’s evening dresses are exquisite sights to behold. Having lived and breathed fashion since he was born, this Libyan designer is definitely one to watch for DFW S/S25 and beyond.
Heba’s approach to her ready-to-wear designs centres around both craftsmanship and customisation – a clever, personalised move that enhances client experiences whilst crafting truly captivating pieces. Specialising in eveningwear, the Emirati designer knows just how to accentuate the female form, so consider your upcoming event-season wardrobe sorted.
The Dubai-based Filipino designer has been dressing the A-list for years and knows how to put on a Hollywood-grade fashion show – cinematic, filled with drama, and as lavish as they come. With his S/S24 couture collection a vibrant ode to Spanish culture, we can’t wait to see what the greatest showman rolls out for S/S25.
There’s something to be said for simplicity in fashion and Lama Jouni is one of only a few designers who has truly mastered the art of modern minimalism. Centring her craft around female empowerment, the Lebanese creative gifts women clothes that are versatile, feminine, and powerful all at once. Her show is definitely our one to watch.
One of Malaysia’s bright young things, Alia launched her namesake label in 2011, quickly expanding to a diffusion line, a bespoke label, and a bridal collection. With a mission to only make clothes she herself would wear and a focus on resort-centric designs, Alia’s collections are always insightful and exciting.
Founded in 2018, Libyan designer Ibrahim Sheban’s collections are an ode to the rich and unexplored culture of his homeland. Also putting sustainability in the spotlight, he meticulously selects deadstock materials and only collaborates with factories that adhere to ethical labour practices. We love nothing more than a brand with purpose.
An Indonesian fashion brand founded by sisters Jihan and Nazmah Malik, Heaven Lights’ ethos revolves around empowering women to feel confident and fashionable whilst adhering to their cultural and religious values. As demand increases for modest brands with a fashion-forward edge, Heaven Lights is very much on the to-see list.
Launched just seven years ago, this Nicaraguan brand has earned over 47 international awards, with Erick named one of the most influential fashion designers in Latin America. So, when he puts on a show, you’ll want to make sure you’re there – and preferably front row. Expect romance and lashings of fantasy from the ‘Prince of Designs’.
