Luxury department store Harrods has announced an extended collab with Fashion Trust Arabia to support emerging designers from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
At an event at the London store this week, it said the collab “goes far beyond endorsement: it gives these designers a global stage – Harrods itself – where creativity meets commerce”.
July will see the collections of four newly-crowned FTA Prize winners available both in-store and online at harrods.com. That’s hugely valuable exposure given the store’s high profile as a must-visit destination for both affluent international shoppers and well-heeled locals.
The retailer said that “every day, the world walks through Harrods. By placing these designers in front of an international clientele—within a store that defines taste, influence and aspiration—Harrods does more than showcase creativity: it accelerates careers, providing visibility, credibility, and commercial access in equal measure.”
So just who are the four designers? They include eveningwear designer Jasmin Mansour from Qatar, who takes a conceptual approach to her looks; Egypt/UK-based Nadine Mosallam, whose ready-to-wear is inspired by Egyptian heritage; Egypt’s Ramla, a sustainable lifestyle/accessories brand rooted in artisanal tradition; and Saudi Arabia’s APOA whose sculptural jewellery is design in Riyadh and made in Italy.
“Our partnership with Fashion Trust Arabia represents an ideal convergence of emerging talent and established figures in the luxury industry,” said Simon Longland, director of buying – Fashion at Harrods. “We take great pride in supporting these designers not just through mentorship, but through real retail opportunities. We believe the Harrods customer is ready—and eager—to discover and embrace their work.”
And FTA co-chair Tania Fares added: “Our mission has always been to champion designers from the MENA region by opening doors to meaningful opportunities. Harrods’ continued support goes beyond retail—it’s a powerful endorsement that gives our winners global visibility… and a platform to grow sustainably.”
Harrods explained that its renewed collaboration with FTA supports its “broader vision to cultivate the next generation of fashion consumers while strengthening its connection with the MENA region’s thriving luxury audience. From editorial features in Harrods Magazine and high-impact event programming, to dedicated e-commerce storytelling and exclusive in-store visibility, the activation demonstrates Harrods’ full-spectrum support for rising creative voices”.
And the mentoring element is also key with Clemmie Harris, head of buying – Contemporary, Sport & Essentials at Harrods, set to lead a specialist session titled ‘Product Merchandising – Building a Range Plan, offering strategic insights into assortment curation and commercial storytelling, “critical skills for growing a global fashion brand”.
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