Nora Al Shaikh is a Jeddah-based brand launched by Saudi designer Nora Al Alshaikh in 2012. Encompassing fragrance, accessories and clothing for both women and men, it has grown into a lifestyle brand. Nora received her degree in Business Administration from King Saud University before enrolling at Riyadh’s Arts & Skills Institute. In December 2014, the designer received the Leaders Inspiring A Kingdom in the Business World Award, given by Forbes Middle East in recognition of “individuals and visionary self-starters who have the power to initiate change and contribute to the Saudi Arabia of tomorrow.”

The Nora Al Shaikh brand focuses on using fashion as a tool to bridge cultures. This approach informs each of her collections, which reference the Kingdom’s diverse regions, craft traditions and art forms. Filtered through a contemporary lens for a global audience, these influences can be seen in the unique proportions, cuts and embellishments of her garments. Nora is committed to growing her brand sustainably. She produces mid-season collections for the Pre-Fall and Resort market, in addition to designing seasonal Ramadan and Abaya collections. This strategy has allowed her to grow within a competitive market, where proceeds from sales are reinvested back into the brand to improve production, source quality fabrics, and produce high quality look books. In addition to dedicated showrooms in Jeddah and Riyadh, the brand’s direct-to-consumer retail strategy includes a dedicated online store.

Nora’s designs have been featured in publications such as WWD, Vogue Arabia, Harper’s Bazaar Arabia, Elle Arabia, Marie Claire Arabia, L’Officiel, CNN and the Los Angeles Times. The Saudi designer has won awards and recognition throughout her career, including being nominated as one of Forbes Middle East’s Top 10 Saudi Women in the design field. She was one of three Saudi fashion designers selected by the Ministry of Culture to participate in shaping the Kingdom’s 2030 Vision, by envisioning the role fashion can play in shaping perceptions of the country and its rich heritage.