Day two of the Dubai Mall Festival of Fashion took place on Friday, January 30, bringing together industry leaders, journalists and innovators for a full day of forward-looking conversations. The programme focused on how technology, investment and regional talent are shaping the future of fashion in the Middle East and beyond.
From artificial intelligence to brand-building and financial growth, the day's four sessions offered sharp insight into the forces redefining design, retail and creativity.
AI and the Future of Fashion
Time: 10:30am – 11:15am Moderator: Louise Nichol, Journalist and Former Editor-in-Chief at Harper's Bazaar
The day opened with a deep dive into how artificial intelligence is transforming the fashion industry. The session explored AI's growing role in design processes, retail experiences and creative innovation — examining how technology is reshaping the way fashion is produced and consumed. Louise Nichol, who led Harper's Bazaar Arabia for nine years, brought unmatched regional editorial authority to the discussion.
The Rise of Regional Fashion Powerhouses
Time: 11:30am – 12:15pm Moderator: Rosanna Lockwood, International Speaker
This panel brought together leading voices driving the region's fashion ecosystem. The conversation centred on the growth of homegrown brands, regional influence on global fashion, and the pioneers positioning the Middle East as a serious and growing force within the industry.
Fashion, Finance & Growth
Time: 1:00pm – 1:45pm Moderator: Ramia Farrage, Senior Presenter and Producer at Forbes Middle East
Turning to the business side of fashion, this session explored investment, funding strategies and innovation. Discussions centred on how brands can scale sustainably, attract investors, and navigate financial growth in an increasingly competitive global market.
From Vision to Brand
Time: 2:00pm – 2:45pm Moderator: Ramia Farrage, Senior Presenter and Producer at Forbes Middle East
The final session of the day offered practical insight into building successful fashion and beauty brands. From transforming creative ideas into commercial ventures to maintaining authenticity while scaling, the conversation was aimed at entrepreneurs and creatives looking to turn vision into reality.
As the Dubai Mall Festival of Fashion approached its closing moments, Day Two underscored the conversations shaping the industry's future — blending creativity, technology and commerce on one influential stage.
