For legendary Indian couturier Manish Malhotra, the Middle East, especially the UAE, has become more than just a fashion destination; it’s a canvas that understands and glorifies his design credo. Sharing his thoughts exclusively with The Finance 360 and F360, Malhotra reflects on his growing presence in the region, his philosophy of melding tradition with glamor, and what’s next in the pipeline for his label in the Gulf.
He made headlines recently after the showcase of his back-to-back designs at the Met Gala 2025, and not to forget, it was also his debut at one of the biggest fashion carnivals.
“For me, the Met Gala wasn’t just about showing a look, it was about telling a story. The theme, Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, was such a powerful tribute to elegance, resistance, and identity, and I wanted to honour that with something meaningful, something rooted in who I am and where I come from,” Manish shares.
He adds, “I’ve always been inspired by the idea of refined rebellion, and that’s where the 19th-century Inverness Dandy came in. I designed a sculptural sherwani layered with a tailored blazer and a long, dramatic cape, all in deep velvet, hand-embroidered using traditional Indian techniques.”
Speaking of the details, he mentions that he didn’t want it to be loud; “I wanted it to speak with quiet strength.”
“Dubai has always felt like a second home to me,” Malhotra further says, beaming with pride as he also recalls closing Dubai Fashion Week in February 2025 and the launch of his flagship store in The Dubai Mall. “The response has been overwhelming. What I love most about the UAE is its diversity. It brings together so many cultures, each with its own sense of style, yet united by a shared appreciation for craftsmanship, detail, and storytelling.”
This connection isn’t just professional, it’s deeply personal. The UAE’s appreciation for heritage while embracing the now mirrors the evolution of Malhotra’s own journey in fashion. From intricate Indian hand embroidery to statement-edge contemporary couture, his work echoes strongly with the GCC’s luxury-conscious clientele.
As fashion tastes in the region continue to evolve in an overly growing landscape, Malhotra remains ahead of the curve. “Cities like Abu Dhabi and Riyadh have such a refined sensibility, and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship,” he says, confirming that conversations are ongoing about expanding into these key markets. “For me, it’s always about creating the right experience, not just opening a door.”
He also hinted at upcoming collaborations and pop-up events across the Middle East, though details remain under wraps for now. “While I can’t reveal details just yet, I’ll definitely share more once things are confirmed.”
Meanwhile, at the Met Gala 2025, Malhotra not only showcased his signature style on a global platform but also used it as a stage to honour Indian artisans and craftsmanship. “To make my debut this year was a moment of immense pride, not just for me but for the entire legacy of Indian craftsmanship that I represent,” he said.
From his sculptural sherwani to Coco Jones’s show-stopping Swarovski ensemble adorned with a 20-carat Tanzanite necklace, every thread, cut, and gemstone told a story. “It wasn’t just about shimmer, it was about storytelling,” Malhotra noted, adding that each creation was deeply rooted in meaning, rebellion, and refined elegance.
