RIYADH: The latest innovations in fashion and textiles are on show at the Saudi Fashiontex Expo, with more than 500 exhibitors from 13 countries taking part.
The event, taking place over three days until Aug. 29, provides a platform for international and regional franchisers, entrepreneurs and business owners to engage with investors and build partnerships.
Exhibitors from Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, Egypt, Italy, Spain, the UK, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Morocco, China, Ireland are present, with a diverse range of products including clothing, sportswear, knitwear, textile accessories, fabrics, yarns, leather goods and haute couture.
Fashion enthusiasts from across Saudi Arabia are part of the expo, which is being held at the Riyadh International Exhibition and Convention Center.
Among them is Yasser Nagro, CEO of DKOO, a company offering clothing design, printing and manufacturing services. He told Arab News the brand was “100 percent Saudi” and added: “In celebration of the upcoming National Day, customers can request the production of 94 pieces. We also assist customers in creating basic T-shirts, hoodies or polos in over 18 colors at wholesale prices.”
With a background in cybersecurity, Maha Al-Qahttani has made a name for herself with her brand Nool, launched three years ago.
She has taken part in various expos around the Kingdom and has tapped into the fashion sector by identifying gaps in the market. “Our focus is on connecting designers with implementers and expanding their sales channels,” Al-Qahttani told Arab News.
Speaking about the brand’s identity, she added: “The name ‘Nool’ refers to the tool used in weaving fabric, symbolizing the beginning of every garment.”
Mohamed El-Sherif, CEO of Pyramids Group and chairman of the expo, expressed gratitude to the Saudi government and local chambers of commerce for their support, emphasizing the event’s evolution into “a world-class fashion destination with exciting new features.”
The expo has provided Saudi companies with opportunities to establish agencies, distributorships and joint ventures with international partners.
Hassan Berkani, president of the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services in Casablanca, announced Morocco as this year’s guest of honor, with around 10 of the country’s fashion houses being featured.
Mohammed Abdelsalam, president of the Chamber of Garment Industry in Egypt, also emphasized the importance of showcasing Egypt’s textile products and fostering cultural exchange.
