RIYADH: Milan’s fashion and design-focused Istituto Marangoni will launch in Riyadh in August in collaboration with the Saudi Fashion Commission.

At a recent Ramadan event co-hosted by Istituto Marangoni and the Fashion Commission, key players explained why the move is a game-changer for aspiring creatives in the Kingdom.

Burak Cakmak, CEO of the Fashion Commission, highlighted the significance of having Istituto Marangoni in Saudi Arabia, stating that its presence will allow aspiring designers to receive education without the need for international travel. “Having an institution like this on the ground will make it much easier for anyone interested in the fashion sector to study, take short programs, or even combine work with education,” he told Arab News.

The new Higher Training Institute, located in the King Abdullah Financial District, will offer three-year undergraduate advanced training diploma programs across several disciplines, including fashion business, fragrances and cosmetics, fashion design, and fashion styling.

Stefania Valenti, CEO of Istituto Marangoni, said that students will also have the option to transfer to global campuses to complete their studies, to gain exposure to international fashion hubs. “We work with all the major global brands, and we aim to connect Saudi talent with international opportunities,” she said.

In an interview with Arab News, Valenti revealed that the institute plans to expand its programs beyond fashion and fragrance, with courses in product and interior design set to launch in the future. “We believe this should be the second wave of creative education in Saudi Arabia,” she said.

To mark the launch, Istituto Marangoni will offer 50 scholarships to Saudi students enrolling in its Advanced Training Diploma Programs, open to Saudi nationals holding a high school certificate or its equivalent.