One of the poolside shows featured the work of Moroccan designer Yasmina Qanzal and included mostly one-piece suits in shades of red, beige and blue. Most models had exposed shoulders and some had their midriffs partially visible which veers from the modesty policy previously enacted in the Kingdom.
Saudi Arabia is creating NEOM, a giga-city concept that includes super yacht resorts and The Line, a 15 minute city. No tourists will visit the Red Sea if they can’t wear a swim suit, so this event is a statement.
“It’s true that this country is very conservative but we tried to show elegant swimsuits which represent the Arab world,” Qanzal said.
“When we came here, we understood that a swimsuit fashion show in Saudi Arabia is a historic moment, because it is the first time to have such event,” she said, adding it was “an honour” to be involved.
