Saudi Arabia witnessed a historic milestone in its evolving cultural landscape on Friday, as it hosted its first fashion show featuring swimsuit models.
This event, which took place at the St Regis Red Sea Resort, showcased the work of Moroccan designer Yasmina Qanzal. The poolside show, part of the inaugural Red Sea Fashion Week, marks a significant departure from the country’s conservative traditions where, less than a decade ago, women were required to wear body-covering abaya robes.
Qanzal’s collection featured mostly one-piece swimsuits in vibrant shades of red, beige, and blue. “It’s true that this country is very conservative but we tried to show elegant swimsuits which represent the Arab world,” Qanzal told AFP.
She emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “When we came here, we understood that a swimsuit fashion show in Saudi Arabia is a historic moment, because it is the first time to have such event. It was an honour to be involved.”
The fashion show is part of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, an ambitious social and economic reform programme overseen by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Vision 2030 aims to diversify the economy and reduce the country’s dependence on oil, while also promoting a more open and modern image of Saudi society. The Red Sea Resort, where the event was held, is one of the mega-projects central to this vision.
Since becoming first in line to the throne in 2017, Prince Mohammed has spearheaded a series of dramatic social reforms aimed at softening Saudi Arabia’s austere image. These reforms have included side-lining the once-feared religious police, re-introducing cinemas, and organizing mixed-gender music festivals. Such changes have not only modernized the country’s social norms but have also created new opportunities for women.
Vision 2030 has particularly focused on enhancing women’s rights and participation in the workforce. The recent fashion show, led by Yasmina Qanzal, exemplifies these efforts, highlighting the increasing presence and influence of women in the public and professional spheres of Saudi society.
The initiative to host such an event underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to providing more freedom and opportunities for women, aligning with the broader goals of Vision 2030.
