Modest Fashion: Dubai, Jakarta and Abaya Trends — 2026-09-13
Dubai Fashion Week has officially shifted its Spring/Summer 2027 dates to October 2026, signaling a strategic move to align with regional retail peaks. Meanwhile, the global modest fashion market continues its robust trajectory, with consumer spending projected to hit $444 billion by 2029.
Modest Fashion: Dubai, Jakarta and Abaya Trends — 2026-09-13
Top developments
Dubai Fashion Week Moves to October 2026
Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) for the Spring/Summer 2027 season will now take place from October 22 to 26, 2026, at Dubai Design District (d3). This shift from previous schedules is designed to better align with the region's retail calendar and enhance participation from international buyers. The decision reflects a broader strategy to position Dubai as a central hub for the modest fashion industry in the latter half of the year.
Riyadh Fashion Week Opens Submissions for 2026 Edition
The Saudi Fashion Commission has opened applications for designers to participate in the fourth edition of Riyadh Fashion Week, scheduled for October 15–20, 2026. This event continues to establish Riyadh as a key player in the global fashion calendar, with a specific focus on supporting local talent and integrating modest fashion into mainstream luxury narratives.
Modest Activewear Trends Drive Wholesale Reorders
Wholesale buyers are increasingly reordering modest activewear, with sports hijabs, burkinis, and wide-leg trousers emerging as top categories for 2026. This trend highlights the growing demand for functional yet stylish options that cater to active Muslim women, a segment that is expanding rapidly within the broader modest fashion market.
Local view
Gulf Channels reports on the updated global fashion week calendars, noting that the shift of Dubai Fashion Week to October places it in direct proximity to other major regional events, creating a concentrated period of activity for designers and buyers in the Gulf. Sayidaty emphasizes that the Riyadh Fashion Week's open call for designers is part of Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 efforts to diversify the economy through creative industries, with modest fashion being a central pillar of this cultural export.
Context & numbers
Global Muslim consumer spending on modest fashion reached approximately $347 billion in 2024, reflecting a 6.2% year-on-year increase. It is projected to grow to $444 billion by 2029 at a 5.1% compound annual growth rate (CAGR). These figures underscore the economic significance of the sector as it moves further into the mainstream luxury market.
On the radar
- Ramadan/Eid 2027 Planning: Retailers are currently finalizing sample orders for Eid bags, charms, and gift sets for the 2027 season, with GCC buyers focusing on material quality and delivery timelines.
- Amina Taher’s Leadership: Newly appointed Arab Fashion Council chairwoman Amina Taher is outlining her strategic plans for Dubai Fashion Week, focusing on stabilizing the event after an unsettled year for the regional industry.
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