The UAE’s fashion industry is experiencing a shift toward sustainability, as luxury brands incorporate eco-friendly practices in response to global climate concerns.
In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a burgeoning movement toward sustainable fashion is emerging as a response to global concerns over climate change and environmental impact. As the UAE aligns with its ambitious Net Zero 2050 Initiative, luxury brands in the region are increasingly prioritizing sustainability, merging elegance with environmentally conscious practices. The shift is being manifested in various fashion outlets stretching from Dubai’s opulent boutiques to eco-friendly runways in Abu Dhabi.
Homegrown brands are leading the way in this transformative approach to luxury, demonstrating that sophistication can coexist with ethical practices and eco-friendly materials. The cultural shift being witnessed within the UAE’s fashion sector reflects a significant change in consumer mindset, characterized by a growing demand for ethical luxury that moves beyond mere trends.
Among the spotlighted labels in this sustainable fashion revolution is Thaely, a sneaker brand founded by Ashay Bhave, which repurposes discarded plastic bags into premium vegan footwear using innovative ThaelyTex material. Bhave noted the brand’s broader impact, stating that they have improved the livelihoods of waste pickers in India by ensuring fair wages and providing healthy working conditions. As part of their initiative, Thaely’s “10,000 Bags Challenge” has successfully upcycled over 250,000 plastic bags.
Another notable brand is Kaleidoscope by Mimi, known for its vibrant, handcrafted kaftans. This Dubai-based label collaborates directly with global artisans to maintain traditional craft techniques. Their collections feature limited-edition pieces made from vegetable-dyed silks and upcycled embroidery, with a portion of profits going towards craft schools in Morocco and India.
Eurthlin is pioneering vegan luxury through accessories crafted from apple leather and cactus silk, utilizing significantly less water compared to animal hides. Their impactful “Carbon Negative Club” initiative plants three trees for every purchase, contributing to Amazon rainforest conservation efforts. The brand’s sustainable focus extends to packaging, which is made from decomposable materials.
Loungewear redefined is the hallmark of Glossy Lounge, which uses GOTS-certified organic cotton jersey. The brand’s “Mangrove Collection” features garments that incorporate CO2-absorbing algae-based yarns. They also run a “Circularity Program,” allowing customers to return worn items for upcycling into new designs.
Other brands exemplifying the sustainable ethos include Ohoy Swim, known for swimsuits made from ghost fishing nets, and Kinki Swim, which creates convertible swimwear in a solar-powered factory from recycled materials. Both brands incorporate innovative practices aimed at helping marine conservation through product sales.
Lama Riachi’s BLSSD brand takes a unique approach by infusing healing properties into fashion. Utilizing antimicrobial fabrics derived from pomegranate rinds, BLSSD’s offerings include a “Comfort Capsule” designed for chemotherapy patients, while donating a portion of profits to mobile cancer clinics in refugee camps.
For those seeking ethically sourced jewelry, Fyne Jewellery offers lab-grown diamonds and 3D-printed gold made from e-waste recovery, further enhancing transparency through blockchain tracing for consumers. Up-fuse stands out with its radical designs from shredded plastic waste, training youth in upcycling techniques through their “Waste School” initiative.
Lastly, the brand Earthly innovates with garments featuring “Living Dyes” that change color with body heat, and for each sold item, they plant drought-resistant trees to contribute to environmental rejuvenation.
As the sustainable fashion movement in the UAE evolves, it reflects a deeper understanding of luxury being rooted in intention rather than excess. With each product showcasing a commitment to environmental stewardship and ethical practices, the region is not merely altering its wardrobe but transforming the rationale behind fashion choices, celebrating innovation while honoring the planet.
Source: Noah Wire Services
