By The Arabian Leaders
Published on: 1-07-2025
Adnan Akbar: The Saudi Couturier Who Elevated Middle Eastern Fashion to Global Fame
RIYADH — When discussing the evolution of haute couture in Saudi Arabia, Adnan Akbar stands as an undisputed pioneer. For over five decades, he has redefined how Saudi fashion is perceived worldwide, seamlessly merging traditional Middle Eastern artistry with European haute couture craftsmanship.
Early Life: From Doll Dresses to Design Dreams
Born in 1949 in Mecca, Adnan Akbar’s passion for design emerged at a young age. Unlike many of his peers, he was drawn not to conventional career paths but to the world of fabrics, embroidery, and silhouette. He began designing dresses for dolls—a creative spark that would later ignite a legacy of global renown.
Training in Beirut and Paris: Crafting Couture Expertise
Determined to perfect his craft, Akbar traveled to Beirut in 1968 to study under Madame Sylvia, an esteemed French couturier. There, he mastered the art of pattern-making and couture tailoring. Seeking even deeper industry insight, he worked in the Vogue Paris library, surrounded by the works of Europe’s greatest designers—an experience that refined his vision for a Saudi couture house.
The Birth of the Adnan Akbar Couture House
In 1970, at just 21, Akbar opened the Adnan Akbar Couture House in Jeddah—Saudi Arabia’s first haute couture atelier. His vision was clear: create elegant, timeless pieces that blended Saudi heritage with European luxury craftsmanship. His distinctive style, rich embroidery, and meticulous attention to detail quickly distinguished him from other designers of his era.
Dressing Royalty and Global Icons
Adnan Akbar’s impeccable reputation reached far beyond the Kingdom’s borders. His ability to merge modesty with sophisticated design attracted elite clientele worldwide. Notable figures who wore his designs include:
- Princess Diana of Wales, who visited his Jeddah atelier in 1989—a career-defining moment that brought his couture to a global audience.
- Bernadette Chirac, the former First Lady of France.
- Susan Mubarak, the former First Lady of Egypt.
His elegant, East-meets-West creations positioned him as a true ambassador for Saudi couture on the international stage.
Collaborations that Shaped His Legacy
Akbar’s impact goes beyond royal wardrobes:
- Bianchini Férier Partnership (1989) — By partnering with the iconic French textile house, Akbar infused his collections with some of the world’s most luxurious fabrics.
- Saudi Airlines Uniforms (1990) — Commissioned by King Fahad, he designed the official uniforms for Saudi Airlines, blending practicality with national elegance.
A Family Legacy: The Next Generation
Today, the Adnan Akbar Couture House remains a family-led legacy:
- Adwa Akbar steers creative direction.
- Abdullah Akbar manages operations and expansion.
- Abdulrahman Akbar oversees finance and legal affairs.
- Aya Akbar handles human resources and culture.
Together, they continue to elevate the brand while preserving Akbar’s commitment to timeless design and exceptional craftsmanship.
Modern Milestones: Riyadh Fashion Week and Global Recognition
At Riyadh Fashion Week 2023, Adnan Akbar showcased a breathtaking collection of signature gowns, marking a new chapter in Saudi couture history. His work also starred in the Innovation Through Heritage exhibition at Ana Arabia, celebrating his enduring influence on the Kingdom’s cultural and fashion landscape.
An Enduring Legacy for Saudi Fashion
Adnan Akbar’s story proves that Saudi haute couture can stand proudly alongside the world’s finest luxury brands. His fearless vision and dedication have inspired new generations of Saudi designers to blend cultural pride with global ambition—perfectly aligning with Vision 2030’s goals of cultural innovation and economic diversification.
Conclusion
From sketching doll dresses in Mecca to designing iconic gowns for royalty and world leaders, Adnan Akbar remains a symbol of luxury, artistry, and Saudi cultural pride. As his children continue to lead the couture house into the future, his legacy is secured as one of the Kingdom’s greatest creative pioneers—an enduring reminder that true craftsmanship never goes out of style.
