THE BREAKDOWN: Azza Al-Qubaisi discusses installation ‘Treasures’ at the pyramids of Giza

'Treasures,' Azza Al-Qubaisi. (Supplied)
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Updated 10 November 2023
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THE BREAKDOWN: Azza Al-Qubaisi discusses installation ‘Treasures’ at the pyramids of Giza

DUBAI: The Emirati designer discusses her large-scale installation from the ‘Forever Is Now’ exhibition, which runs until Nov. 18 at the pyramids of Giza. 

My journey started 20 years back, when I graduated with a degree in jewelry and silversmithing. I enjoy jumping from one material to another and working on different scales. A lot of my work is about how humans engage with a space and what they can get out of it as an experience for them.  

When I was shortlisted for “Forever Is Now,” we started the journey of developing the artwork and adjusting it to fit the space near the pyramids. It was overwhelming; the minute you are in such a historical site with that backdrop and seeing the sun move from one side to the other, it’s a dream experience for any artist, regardless of their background. It’s like you’re in another matrix.  

I enjoyed every single bit of it. I had such a wonderful team that helped install my work. We created it in a way that looked like IKEA furniture: It’s pre-packed, then you open it and install it with nuts and bolts. We had to make it as simple as possible. If that wasn’t the case, it would have taken three or four days to install. I think I was one of the fastest on site, installing my work in one day, so I enjoyed the rest of my days in Egypt.  

I’ve worked with many different shapes, but the pyramid form, to me, has a strength. In this artwork, I wanted to create a pyramid — made of mild steel — but in a size and form that gives an experience, mainly revolving around feeling secure in a safe space.  

At the same time, the ‘treasure’ that I wanted people to reflect on is not the golden part on top of the piece, but the gold within them. So, we are the true treasures of the experience, walking through, sitting, and meditating in the artwork.  

Surrounding the pyramid is a representation of sand dunes. I’m inspired by the desert. People perceive the desert as a dead space, but I perceive it as a living space where there are farms, trees, and other living things. That is very important to our society in the region. 


Saudi label KML unveils new collection in Paris

Updated 21 January 2026
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Saudi label KML unveils new collection in Paris

DUBAI: Siblings Razan and Ahmed Hassan presented their Fall/Winter 2026–2027 collection at Paris Fashion Week on Tuesday, continuing the rapid rise of their KML label.

The duo has gained international recognition since launching the brand in 2022, most recently being named semifinalists for the LVMH Prize — a prestigious annual award for emerging designers.

Creative director Ahmed’s minimalist designs and sharp tailoring mean KML — owned by his sister, Razan — has built its identity around reimagining traditional Saudi garments through a contemporary lens. Jackets are paired with shawl-like elements, large leather belts recall those historically worn by Bedouin men, and skirts nod to silhouettes once worn by men in the Eastern Province, Jazan and the Hijaz.

The collection leans on wrap constructions, asymmetry and elongated proportions. (Getty Images)

The approach is reflected in the new collection, which features a restrained palette of black, white and muted earth tones, leaning on wrap constructions, asymmetry and elongated proportions.

Flowing skirts, structured wrap tops and robe-like coats dominate the lineup, with some looks referencing classical draping while others lean toward utilitarian dressing, defined by sharp shoulders, cinched waists and clean, architectural lines.

In a previous interview with Arab News, Ahmed said their grandmother was a huge influence on their lives as he and his sister grew up in Riyadh. He fondly recalled both her progressive nature and inimitable style. As a young boy, Ahmed would often accompany her to fabric shops so she could get her designs stitched by a local tailor. The experience left an impression, though fashion was not an obvious initial career path.

Ahmed studied architecture and became an intern at Zaha Hadid Architects, where he developed an appreciation for structure and form. Razan, meanwhile, pursued law at Prince Sultan University and she went on to practice full-time.

“One summer, we both realized we weren’t doing what we truly wanted to do, so I decided to go to the UK to study creative writing, and Ahmed went to Central Saint Martins (in London) for a few courses,” Razan explained.

That was the catalyst for KML. In August 2023, they launched their debut capsule collection and towards the end of that year they applied to the Saudi 100 Brands program. The Fashion Commission recognized their potential, helping KML launch collections at fashion weeks in Paris, Riyadh and Milan.