Dubai Fashion Week opened its Spring/Summer 2027 edition on Thursday, October 22, at Dubai Design District. Kuwaiti designer Yousef Al-Jasmi opened the runway program. Later that evening, Lebanese actress Cyrine Abdelnour stepped onto the catwalk for Indian designer Pallavi Puri. Together, the two shows set a glamorous tone for the five-day event, which runs until October 26.
A Strong Start for Regional Couture
Four designers presented on opening night: Yousef Al-Jasmi, Sara Pedram, Pallavi Puri and Krésha Bajaj x Alok Lodha Jewels. Before the first model walked, a showroom at d3 previewed emerging talent from around the world. The week also includes a Buyers Program that connects couturiers with industry stakeholders. Co-founded by Dubai Design District and the Arab Fashion Council, the event aims to cement Dubai’s role as a fashion hub.
Yousef Al-Jasmi Makes His Runway Debut
Al-Jasmi opened the evening with his debut on the Dubai Fashion Week runway. Notably, his gowns have been worn by Beyoncé, Lady Gaga, and Naomi Campbell. His collection moved from barely-there nude to dramatic black, with lilac in between. Crystal-encrusted dresses skimmed the body, and long strands of crystals cascaded from shoulder to floor.
Several looks stood out. A sheer, high-necked gown had floor-length cape sleeves covered in crystals and pearls. A halter gown carried strands of crystals across its skirt. In addition, a strapless black gown featured a voluminous ruffled skirt. Emirates Woman reads the collection through a pearl theme, with strands of pearls strung into soft drapes against sharp tailoring. In other words, delicate embellishment met precise structure.
Cyrine Abdelnour Closes for Pallavi Puri
Pallavi Puri also made her Dubai Fashion Week debut. Indian model Lisa Haydon opened her show. Cyrine Abdelnour closed it in an embellished bridal look. Horses appeared as a recurring motif, reflecting the designer’s fascination with the animals and Dubai’s equestrian culture. Puri also reworked traditional Indian beadwork for a contemporary audience. She cited Emirati, Asian and Moroccan women among her inspirations.
Sara Pedram and Krésha Bajaj
Sara Pedram presented intricately embroidered couture gowns inspired by strength and wisdom. Krésha Bajaj x Alok Lodha Jewels closed the night. Together, the four shows mixed Gulf, Persian and Indian craft traditions in one evening.
Homage to Arabian Woman Closing
The week continued with runway shows each evening, plus showroom appointments and panels during the day. Indian couturier Tarun Tahiliani closed the program with Homage to Arabian Woman on Monday, October 26.
