Rising Saudi Models Amira, Taleedah and Zahra Shine Against the Kingdom's Stunning Desert Backdrop
The sea itself, calm yet ever-rolling, mirrors the quiet power of the landscape. In this place where time stays still, Amira Al Zuhair, Taleedah Tamer, and Zahra Hussain rise as the faces of the future, representing Saudi Arabia on a global fashion scale. They celebrate feminine energy, with a rock-solid foundation. Whether bathed in sunlight or moonlight, this rugged landscape is a runway like no other.
Amira Al Zuhair
Saudi-French model Amira Al Zuhair made history as one of the first Saudi models to star in Chanel's Métiers d'Art Spring 2022 campaign, and this groundbreaking debut helped cement her place in the international fashion world. She walked exclusively for Alaïa at Paris Fashion Week in 2024 and has also graced the runways for labels like Balmain, Dolce & Gabbana, Louis Vuitton, Missoni and more. As the kingdom's creative scene flourishes, Al Zuhair has become her country's ambassador on the international fashion stage – and at home. 'What I love most about my heritage is how deeply-rooted it is in tradition, yet constantly evolving,' she says. 'Shooting in the kingdom has been an incredibly enriching experience. The landscapes are breathtaking, and there's a special kind of pride that comes from sharing this beauty, spirit and cultural richness with the world.' Al Zuhair admires supermodels Naomi Campbell and Gisele Bündchen, and is also deeply inspired by Malala Yousafzai, whose fearless advocacy for women's rights and access to education continues to move her. A former elected member of the UK Youth Parliament, Al Zuhair studied philosophy, politics and economics at King's College London. She is the epitome of brains and beauty, and is excited for what the future holds for her career – and her kingdom.
Taleedah Tamer
The scent of fresh mint instantly transports Saudi model Taleedah Tamer back to her childhood, which was spent in her hometown, Jeddah. She later moved to Milan for university, balancing schoolwork with castings. Today, her jet-setting life smells like 'airplane air, adventure, and home,' she shares. When Tamer was 17, she made history as the first Saudi model to walk in a Paris Haute Couture show, debuting in the Antonio Grimaldi fall/winter 2018/2019 presentation. Fast forward to 2024 and she made headlines yet again at Riyadh Fashion Week, walking the Hindamme runway with her cousin, pop star Mishaal Tamer. The duo appeared with arms linked, wearing matching T-shirts emblazoned with the statement: 'Saudi Arabia is the future,' designed by Saudi creative Lina Malaika in collaboration with Hindamme's founder, Mohammed Khoja. 'Every day, I feel inspired by those around me who choose to be good and to be their authentic selves,' says Tamer, who enjoys working with fellow models on her home turf. 'The best thing about shooting here is the feeling of support from the community – we're all joined in the same purpose to help develop the industry in our kingdom. It's fun and obviously challenging, but we're all working together really hard to create art.'
Zahra Hussain
'Every time I walk into Saudi, I feel an immediate peace – like the country just gives you a hug,' model Zahra Hussain says fondly. She deeply appreciates the capital's hospitality, and how energetic, lively and vibrant it is. 'Moments from working in Saudi have built up to be the best experiences of my life,' shares Hussain, who has walked both seasons of Riyadh Fashion Week. She has also walked for Brunello Cucinelli, in addition to starring in campaigns for Ferragamo, Pomellato and Adidas x KAF by KAF – each highlighting a different facet of her dynamic presence. 'There's so much talent in the fashion industry in Riyadh, and they're paving such a remarkable path for Arabian fashion,' she reflects. As Hussain approaches graduation from the University of Manchester in International Business, Economics and Finance this summer, her focus extends beyond personal achievement – she hopes to to organise a charity fundraiser for girls' education in Afghanistan. Central to her journey is her mother, Riz, who co-owns a pharmaceutical business with Hussain's father. 'I'd be lucky if I even end up half the woman that she is," she says with a smile. With a growing body of work across both runway and editorial, Hussain is quickly proving her versatility and star quality, making waves in the European fashion scene while establishing herself as a standout face to watch in the MENA region and beyond.
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