A Glittering Grand Finale
Dubai Fashion Week (DFW) Autumn- Winter 2025-26 wrapped up in spectacular fashion as renowned Indian haute-couture designer Manish Malhotra made history with his highly anticipated first-ever international runway show. Known for his lavish, intricately detailed designs, Manish captivated the audience with the stunning debut of his World Collection, a breathtaking fusion of global influences and signature Indian craftsmanship.
The runway sparkled with the presence of international supermodels Adriana Lima and Valery Kaufman, whose striking walks added an extra layer of glamour to this historic showcase. The event, hosted at the iconic Dubai Design District (D3), was a dazzling celebration of culture, luxury, and artistic brilliance.
The grandeur of the night was further amplified by an elite guest list featuring Bollywood’s biggest names, including Karan Johar, Malaika Arora, and Sanjay Dutt, alongside top fashion influencers and media personalities. With a perfect blend of cinematic charm and high-fashion elegance, the show reaffirmed Dubai’s growing dominance as a global fashion powerhouse.
The World Collection: A Celebration Of Global Fashion
Manish Malhotra’s World Collection paid tribute to the beauty of multicultural fashion, seamlessly blending Indian craftsmanship with global influences. The collection featured a mix of structured silhouettes and fluid drapery, adorned with shimmering sequins, handwoven brocades, bold metallic tones, and delicate pearls, elements that define Malhotra’s signature aesthetic.
The designs traversed diverse cultures, offering a stunning fusion of Indo-Western ensembles, glamorous evening gowns, and modest Arab-inspired kaftans and abayas. The collection stood as a testament to the designer’s ability to create pieces that resonate across cultural boundaries while maintaining an element of exclusivity and grandeur.
Adding to the allure, Malhotra’s eponymous jewellery line was showcased alongside the ensembles, featuring bold brooches, statement necklaces, and timeless accessories. The interplay of intricate detailing and modern aesthetics captivated the audience, making the show a visual treat.
Dubai: A Rising Global Fashion Capital
Dubai Fashion Week (DFW), co-founded by Dubai Design District (D3) and the Arab Fashion Council, continues to cement its status as a global fashion powerhouse, attracting elite designers, buyers, and influencers. This season showcased a dynamic exchange of creativity, reinforcing Dubai’s role in shaping the industry’s future.
Khadija Al Bastaki, Senior Vice President of D3, stated that DFW’s growing influence marked another milestone in establishing Dubai as a key fashion hub, adding that Manish Malhotra’s collection beautifully reflected the deep creative and economic ties between the UAE and India.
Mohammed Aqra, Chief Strategy Officer of the Arab Fashion Council, stated that this season strengthened DFW’s identity as a truly multicultural fashion stage, fostering global creative exchange.
With its diverse talent and visionary designs, DFW not only participated in the global fashion conversation - it led it.
Bollywood And Beyond: A Starry Affair
Manish Malhotra’s much-awaited show attracted some of the biggest names in Bollywood and fashion. Karan Johar, Malaika Arora, and Sanjay Dutt were among the many luminaries who witnessed the grandeur of Malhotra’s debut international runway presentation. Their presence added a touch of Bollywood glamour to the event, reaffirming the deep-rooted connection between cinema and fashion.
A Week Of Global Fashion Excellence
DFW Autumn- Winter 2025-26 was a testament to the growing prominence of Dubai’s fashion industry. The week-long event featured an impressive lineup of designers, each presenting a unique take on contemporary fashion trends.
Paolo Sebastian became the first Australian brand to showcase at DFW, setting a new benchmark for global participation.
Les Benjamins, an Istanbul-based streetwear label, joined as DFW’s inaugural Correspondent Designer, expanding the spectrum of styles showcased.
Homegrown talents such as Michael Cinco, Dima Ayad, BLSSD, Lama Jouni, MANEL, and Velvety Couture demonstrated the remarkable craftsmanship and innovation of the region.
Victor Weinsanto, a returning DFW Member, unveiled his captivating collection, ‘Cauchemar in the Kitchen,’ leaving audiences intrigued.
Etoile La Boutique and THAT Concept Store hosted multi-designer showcases, bringing together diverse talents and perspectives under one roof.
A standout feature of DFW was the New York Institute of Fashion and the London School of Trends presentation, where students reimagined traditional Indian craftsmanship through 40 stunning pieces. This initiative underscored DFW’s commitment to nurturing emerging talent and blending heritage with modernity.
The Future Of Fashion: A Cultural Confluence
As Dubai continues to solidify its place on the global fashion map, Manish Malhotra’s debut at Dubai Fashion Week stands as a defining moment. His decision to open his first international flagship store in Dubai and showcase his World Collection at DFW speaks volumes about the city’s growing influence in luxury fashion.
Reflecting on his journey, Manish Malhotra expressed his deep emotional connection with Dubai, calling it his "second home." Having visited the city for nearly 30 years, he shared how Dubai fills him with a sense of happiness and limitless possibilities. It was this bond that inspired him to open his first international flagship store in the city. Showcasing his “World Collection” on the runway in a place renowned for its cosmopolitan style made the moment even more meaningful for him.
A Legacy In The Making
Manish Malhotra’s spectacular finale at Dubai Fashion Week was more than just a fashion showcase, it was a celebration of artistry, culture, and global unity. The event reaffirmed Dubai’s position as a melting pot of international fashion while honouring Malhotra’s unparalleled craftsmanship.
As Dubai Fashion Week continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: “Fashion knows no boundaries.” With each passing season, DFW is shaping the future of fashion, one show at a time, and the world is watching.
