“From royalty to runway: How Sheikha Madiyah Al Sharqi is redefining UAE fashion”
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known for its opulence and luxury, and the fashion industry in the country is no exception. From high-end designer brands to traditional clothing, UAE fashion is a melting pot of various cultures and influences. However, one name that stands out in the industry is Sheikha Madiyah Al Sharqi, a member of the UAE royal family who is redefining the fashion scene in the country.
Sheikha Madiyah Al Sharqi is the daughter of Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, the ruler of Fujairah, one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE. Born and raised in the UAE, Sheikha Madiyah grew up surrounded by fashion and design, which eventually led her to pursue a career in the industry. She studied fashion design at the American University in Dubai and later earned a degree in business management from the same institution.
In 2011, Sheikha Madiyah launched her eponymous fashion label, Madiyah Al Sharqi. The brand offers a range of contemporary clothing that combines traditional Emirati influences with modern design aesthetics. The collections feature luxurious fabrics, intricate embroidery, and bold prints, all of which are crafted by skilled artisans in the UAE. Sheikha Madiyah’s designs have been worn by local and international celebrities, including Kylie Jenner and Gigi Hadid.
What sets Madiyah Al Sharqi apart from other UAE fashion brands is its focus on sustainability. Sheikha Madiyah is passionate about preserving the environment and reducing the fashion industry’s carbon footprint. The brand uses eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton and recycled polyester, in its collections. Additionally, Sheikha Madiyah encourages customers to recycle and upcycle their clothing to reduce waste.
Sheikha Madiyah is also an advocate for female empowerment and gender equality. She believes that fashion can be a powerful tool for women to express themselves and showcase their creativity. Sheikha Madiyah has been involved in several initiatives that support women in the UAE, such as the Women’s Empowerment Principles, a UN initiative that promotes gender equality in the workplace.
In recent years, Sheikha Madiyah has expanded her brand beyond the UAE and into the global fashion market. She has showcased her collections at international fashion weeks, including Paris Fashion Week and London Fashion Week. Her designs have received critical acclaim and have been featured in top fashion publications, such as Vogue Arabia and Harper’s Bazaar Arabia.
Sheikha Madiyah’s success in the fashion industry has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, she was appointed as a board member of the Arab Fashion Council, a non-profit organization that promotes the growth and development of the fashion industry in the Middle East. Sheikha Madiyah is the first Emirati woman to hold a board position at the council, which is a significant achievement for the UAE fashion industry.
In conclusion, Sheikha Madiyah Al Sharqi is a trailblazer in the UAE fashion industry. Her brand, Madiyah Al Sharqi, is redefining Emirati fashion by combining traditional elements with modern design aesthetics and promoting sustainability and female empowerment. Sheikha Madiyah’s global success is a testament to her talent and vision, and she is undoubtedly a force to be reckoned with in the fashion world
