Saudi label KML unveils new collection in Paris

The new collection features a restrained palette of black, white and muted earth tones. (Getty Images)
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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.


Saudi-backed ‘Voice of Hind Rajab’ receives Oscar nomination

Updated 22 January 2026
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Saudi-backed ‘Voice of Hind Rajab’ receives Oscar nomination

DUBAI: “The Voice of Hind Rajab,” a film inspired by the final moments of a young Palestinian girl trapped under Israeli fire in Gaza, has been nominated for an Oscar in the best international film category.

Directed by Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania, the film – backed by Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Fund – tells the story of Hind Rajab Hamada, who was fleeing the Israeli military in Gaza City with six relatives last year when their car came under fire.

The sole survivor of the Israeli attack was then shot and killed. Her desperate calls recorded with the Red Crescent rescue service caused international outrage against Israel.

The movie has several famous names attached as executive producers, including actors Joaquin Phoenix and Brad Pitt, and Oscar-winning directors Jonathan Glazer (“The Zone of Interest”) and Mexico’s Alfonso Cuaron (“Roma”).

Following the Oscar nomination announcement, the Red Sea Film Foundation took to Instagram to make a statement, writing: “We’re proud to announce that Kaouther Ben Hania’s ‘The Voice of Hind Rajab,’ which was supported by the Red Sea Fund, has been nominated for Best International Feature Film at the 2026 Oscars.

“The nomination reflects the strength of the creative vision behind the film and the commitment of the team who brought it to life. We’re honored to have supported this work and to see it celebrated among the year’s most distinguished international films.”

The film premiered in September 2025 at the Venice International Film Festival, where it quickly became one of the most talked-about entries. Its first screening was followed by a record-setting 23-minute standing ovation. Days later, “The Voice of Hind Rajab” was awarded the Silver Lion Grand Jury Prize, the festival’s second-highest honor.