Post by : Badri Ariffin

Under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan Al Nahyan, the Design Commission Abu Dhabi (DCAD) is reinforcing the city’s stance as a premier location for sustainable luxury, cultural creativity, and design innovation. This initiative is pivotal for shaping a future-ready creative economy that integrates advanced technologies and artificial intelligence.

DCAD aims to position Abu Dhabi as a creator of globally recognized design intellectual property, prioritizing the development of UAE-origin materials and cutting-edge textile innovations. It also seeks to cultivate a skilled workforce through international residencies, specialized training programs, and capacity-building initiatives. Supported by global partnerships and cultural events, these efforts showcase Abu Dhabi’s rising influence in the global design arena.

As part of this aspiration, the luxury brand Oscar de la Renta will reveal an exclusive caftan created in collaboration with DCAD during its upcoming Pre-Spring Collection Preview in Abu Dhabi. This unveiling represents a significant milestone in the brand's regional strategy, showcasing a bespoke design that embodies Emirati culture within a modern couture framework.

The caftan, inspired by the traditional Emirati thobe, honors Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural heritage and its natural floral landscapes. Crafted as a limited, special-order piece, it features a porcelain flower-printed silk georgette overlay, layered with ivory silk georgette plumetis, and embellished with intricate three-dimensional floral thread-work appliqué. This design harmoniously fuses Oscar de la Renta’s renowned craftsmanship with local cultural elements.

The collaboration originates from a visit in 2025 by Laura Kim, Co-Creative Director of Oscar de la Renta, to Abu Dhabi. During her exploration of local art, architecture, ornamental stone work, and traditional Emirati attire, she gathered inspiration that shaped the caftan’s design, resulting in a couture piece that reflects both heritage and contemporary luxury.

This exclusive caftan will be available for special order during the Oscar de la Renta Pre-Spring Collection Preview at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, Abu Dhabi, with private appointments scheduled from January 13 to January 15, 2026.

#Global News