With the Saudi Fashion Commission forecasting a 48 percent rise in apparel and footwear retail sales by 2025, international fashion brands are vying for a share of this burgeoning market.
This competitive trend was witnessed during a recent panel discussion held in preparation for Saudi Lifestyle Week 2025 at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center. The event drew prominent fashion leaders from Italy, Portugal, Germany, and Spain, all eager to explore opportunities in Saudi Arabia's rapidly expanding fashion industry.
According to the event organisers, the Kingdom’s retail footprint is set to grow, with 962,000 sq m of new retail development expected this year alone. Combined with a youthful, tech-savvy population increasingly drawn to e-commerce, this expansion creates an ideal environment for international brands to establish themselves and thrive in the Saudi market.
João Maia, General Manager, The Portuguese Footwear Association, notes, there is a rising demand for premium footwear in Saudi Arabia, particularly among younger consumers who prioritise both style and comfort.
Similarly, KoraySuce from Expotim, representing Turkish fashion brands, highlights the significant growth opportunities for Turkish companies in Saudi Arabia. The Kingdom’s Vision 2030 initiative drives consumers toward more diverse and global fashion options, presenting a substantial opportunity for Turkish brands to expand, he avers.
The rise of e-commerce has also reshaped the fashion landscape in Saudi Arabia, with more than 5,000 online apparel stores launching in 2024. This surge in digital retail aligns with global trends, especially among younger shoppers who seek convenience and a wider variety of products. Marlene Oliveira, Head -International Unit, CENIT (Centro de Inteligencia Textile), points out, the increasing affinity for online shopping for apparel and accessoriesamongst Saudi Arabiaconsumers presents a golden opportunity for brands to enhance their digital presence and offer personalised shopping experiences.
Another key attraction for international brands entering the Saudi market is growing luxury market. In 2021, the Gulf region’s luxury fashion purchases reached $9.7 billion in 2021, with Saudi Arabia driving 19 percent of this growth. Manfred Junkert, CEO, German Footwear Association, emphasises, Saudi consumers are becoming more sophisticated and increasingly drawn to sustainable, well-crafted products. German brands are responding to this trend by developing eco-friendly footwear collections tailored to the Saudi market.
