Arab Fashion Council Appoints Amina Taher as Chairwoman and Launches Fashion Fund for Emirati Designers
The Arab Fashion Council (AFC) has announced the appointment of Amina Taher as its new Chairwoman, alongside the launch of the AFC Fashion Fund Emirati Chapter, a new initiative supporting emerging Emirati fashion designers and their brands.
The announcement was made on 4 November 2026 during a private dinner at Maison Revka, Delano Dubai, hosted by Jacob Abrian, Founder and CEO of the Arab Fashion Council.
A New Chapter for Emirati Fashion
The AFC Fashion Fund Emirati Chapter aims to help UAE designers develop sustainable fashion businesses and gain international recognition.
Selected designers will benefit from:
- Mentorship: Guidance from experienced fashion industry professionals.
- Strategic support: Business advice to help establish and grow fashion houses.
- Retail partnerships: Access to potential retail and commercial opportunities.
- International exposure: Opportunities to introduce Emirati designs to global audiences.
The initiative forms part of the Council’s upcoming 2027-2029 manifesto, which places greater emphasis on developing Emirati creative talent and strengthening the UAE’s fashion industry.
Amina Taher Takes on Leadership Role
As the newly appointed Chairwoman, Amina Taher will help guide the Council’s next phase of development.
Speaking about her appointment, Taher highlighted the importance of nurturing Emirati creativity while preserving its cultural identity.
“Emirati creativity has a distinct voice, rooted in our heritage and driven by a confidence and ambition that is uniquely our own,” she said.
Jacob Abrian described the new fund as an important step towards giving Emirati designers the expertise, structure and partnerships needed to build internationally recognised fashion houses.
Dubai Hosts Leading Names in Fashion and Luxury
The announcement brought together prominent figures from government, fashion, luxury, technology and media.
Guests included representatives from Chalhoub Group, Valentino, Chopard, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, Level Shoes, Dubai Design District, Google, Meta and Apple, alongside senior representatives from UAE cultural and government institutions.
The gathering reflected the growing collaboration between the UAE’s creative sector and international luxury industry.
Strengthening the UAE’s Global Fashion Presence
Over the past decade, the Arab Fashion Council has worked to expand the international visibility of Arab fashion.
With the appointment of Amina Taher and the introduction of the Emirati Chapter, the Council is shifting greater attention towards supporting UAE-based talent and helping local designers establish lasting fashion businesses.
The initiative represents another step in positioning Dubai and the wider UAE as an international destination for fashion, design and creative entrepreneurship.
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