JEDDAH: Academics, fashion professionals, and aspiring designers recently gathered in Jeddah to discuss the future of fashion design in Saudi Arabia and the role of the Kingdom’s creative industries in supporting economic diversification under Vision 2030.
The event, organized by the Future High Institute for Training in collaboration with the University of Business and Technology, brought together around 40 women and young creatives from diverse professional backgrounds to explore opportunities in fashion, technology, and design.
It also marked the launch of the book “Fashion and Apparel Design” by Saudi academic, researcher, and fashion design and cultural heritage expert Prof. Dalal Al-Shareef, aimed at enhancing academic and professional understanding of Saudi Arabia’s growing fashion sector.
Al-Shareef presented her book, saying: “Fashion specialization goes beyond creativity alone; it requires technical knowledge, academic learning, and continuous skill development. Through this book, I wanted to shed light on the different aspects of fashion design, the skills needed to excel in the field, and the importance of education in refining designers’ abilities and preparing them for the future of the industry locally and globally.”
Prof. Rajaa Moumena, founder and CEO of the institute, said: “Artificial intelligence is no longer just a supporting tool in fashion education; it is becoming part of the creative process itself. From trend forecasting and digital sketches to improving production efficiency, these technologies are reshaping how designers work.”
She added: “For young Saudi designers, understanding these tools is essential to competing in a fast-evolving global industry while also creating designs that reflect local identity and culture.”
The program also featured a panel discussion titled “Fashion Profession and the Future,” which explored fashion illustration and design, and the growing role of artificial intelligence in reshaping industry practices and expanding career opportunities for young Saudis.
