Elie Saab’s grand show marks 45 years of the brand, confirming Riyadh as a new hotspot for local and global fashion
Lebanese designer Elie Saab chose Riyadh, the capital and largest city of Saudi Arabia, to celebrate his 45th anniversary with a grand show titled “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab.” This event highlights the growing influence of the kingdom on the global fashion industry.
Eva Herzigová stunned in a sparkling look for "The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab" show in Riyadh. Courtesy of Elie Saab
The fashion industry is playing an increasingly significant role in the national economy, with its contribution to GDP rising to 2.5% in 2023, up from 1.4% in 2022, when its value was estimated at $12.5 billion.
Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a shopping destination while also making strides to nurture its own creative talent, aiming to elevate its designers on the international stage. This ambition was evident during Riyadh Fashion Week 2024 in October, a five-day event in its second edition, which featured a mix of established and emerging local talent presenting both couture and ready-to-wear collections for men and women. Among the standout brands was Hindamme, which displayed a T-shirt with the bold statement, “Saudi Arabia is the future.”
Elie Saab’s Spectacular 45th Anniversary Celebration in Riyadh
However, what further elevated the already thriving Riyadh was Elie Saab on 13 November 2024, who turned the city into a beacon of elegance with an unforgettable evening that felt like a modern-day fairytale.
Jennifer Lopez taking the stage in a fringe bodysuit at The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab show in Riyadh. Courtesy of Elie Saab
The event, titled “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab”, was stunning and mesmerising, showcasing a high-fashion spectacle that blended runway extravagance with unmistakable Middle Eastern flair.
Adriana Lima walking at “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” show in Riyadh. Courtesy of Elie Saab
From start to finish, Saab clearly pulled out all the stops to celebrate this career milestone, presenting over 300 looks styled by Carine Roitfeld and inspired by the mystical beauty of “One Thousand and One Nights.”
A Glimpse into Elie Saab’s World
The venue in Riyadh provided the perfect backdrop for this historic celebration. Each piece in the collection was a work of art, blending traditional Middle Eastern concepts with the modern elegance of couture—hallmarks of Elie Saab’s impeccable craftsmanship.
The collection paid tribute to Arab heritage while demonstrating its evolution into a global aesthetic. From flowing silhouettes to intricate beading, it served as a love letter to Arab culture and creativity.
A Star-Studded Event: VIP Guests, Top Performers, and Supermodels Steal the Spotlight
The front row was as star-studded as the runway. Among those in attendance were Kelly Rutherford, Carine Roitfeld, Monica Bellucci, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Poppy Delevingne, and Saab’s trusted friends and fellow fashion luminaries, all gathered to honour the designer’s life and work.
Candice Swanepoel at “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” in Riyadh. Courtesy of Elie SaabMeanwhile, supermodels Adriana Lima, Candice Swanepoel, Jourdan Dunn, Helena Christensen, Alek Wek, and Eva Herzigova brought Saab’s ethereal designs to life as they walked the runway in his creations.
Céline Dion on the red carpet of “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” in Riyadh. Courtesy of Elie Saab
Céline Dion, Jennifer Lopez, and Camila Cabello elevated the evening’s enchantment with unforgettable performances, taking the larger-than-life spectacle to new heights.
Céline Dion performing at the runway show of Lebanese designer Elie Saab in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Courtesy of Elie Saab
Céline Dion, a long-time admirer of Saab, made a lasting impression in a one-of-a-kind gown that perfectly mirrored the drama and elegance of the collection.
Halle Berry attending “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” in Riyadh. Courtesy of Elie Saab
Another unforgettable moment came when Halle Berry paid tribute to Saab’s enduring influence by re-wearing her iconic 2002 Oscars gown.
A Celebration of Middle Eastern Culture and Global Talent
The evening embraced a distinct Middle Eastern atmosphere, highlighted by performances from Lebanese singer Nancy Ajram and Egyptian artist Amr Diab. The international calibre of the talents involved attests to Elie Saab’s exceptional ability to bridge diverse cultures.
Egyptian star Amr Diab taking to the stage during "The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab" celebrations in Riyadh. Courtesy of Elie Saab
Hosting this historic event in Riyadh was both symbolic and a bold statement. The grand show emphasised the Middle East’s increasing prominence in the global fashion industry, demonstrating its ability to compete with the world’s most prestigious runways.
A Milestone in Riyadh’s Fashion and Cultural Identity
“Each step, as I pledged 45 years ago, is a new beginning,” Elie Saab reflected. “And what lies ahead is undoubtedly more beautiful.”
The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab was more than just a fashion show; it was a cultural milestone that celebrated Arab resilience and creativity, marking the culmination of Saab’s extraordinary career.
Kelly Rutherford attending “The 1001 Seasons of Elie Saab” in Riyadh. Courtesy of Elie Saab
Through a breathtaking display of creativity and artistry, Elie Saab reminded the world of his mastery of elegance, his status as a beacon of Middle Eastern artistry, and his role as a symbol of hope for aspiring designers across the region.
Laetitia El Hajj
MA in Fashion Promotion, Communication & Digital Media, Paris