Elie Saab The 1001 Seasons – Celebration of 45th Anniversary in Riyadh
A Triumph of Cultural Fusion and Modern Elegance, Through “The 1001 Seasons of ELIE SAAB,” the legendary designer once again showcased his unmatched ability to blend tradition with contemporary elegance. With more than 300 looks, the collection reinterpreted classic tales of 1001 nights through a modern lens. The show highlighted Saab’s storytelling through fashion and reflects a fusion of Arabian heritage and contemporary innovation to embody ELIE SAAB’s globally recognized aesthetic.
1001 seasons…
We condense a lifetime of experience and a journey spanning decades into a single night, setting the stage for a new beginning. Today, we are not simply concluding 45 years of heritage; instead, we are ushering in fresh years, marked by a pivotal moment laden with hope.
Elie Saab’s celebration at Riyadh Season is a culmination of generations of fashion, rooted in traditions that preceded me, and which I have had the privilege of reinvigorating and evolving. The event captured vast expanses of creativity drawn from the essence of Arab culture and its golden years of intellect and innovation, now showcased to the world through this magnificent event.
My journey began amidst the turmoil of war in Beirut, where I built a world of beauty, carrying it with gratitude wherever opportunities led me. Saudi Arabia has always held a special place in my heart, being the first place outside Lebanon where I ventured, succeeded, and launched further into grander dreams and horizons.
Vision 2030, spearheaded by King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, is embodied in this magnificent event, presenting the vibrant and intricate Arab identity to the world and establishing Riyadh not just as the capital of Saudi Arabia, but as a cultural and creative epicenter for the Arab world, poised among leading nations shaping human history.
From the initial conception over a year ago to the final execution, this event was the result of tireless collaboration, powered by the unwavering support of His Excellency Turki Al Sheikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority. His dedication enabled the event’s grand and breathtaking realization.
I am proud that Elie Saab’s name now resonates worldwide through this occasion, and I extend heartfelt gratitude to all who played a part—thousands within the Elie Saab team, the global execution crews, and the distinguished figures whose creativity shone throughout.
Today, the world gathers in Riyadh with a shared declaration: beauty knows no borders; it is the universal identity we seek in all we perceive and create. When beauty and creativity become our highest pursuits, the world transforms into a more splendid place.
My message to you transcends borders, leaving traces of joy in everything we have strived for from the very beginning, wherever we plan and dream. Beauty is boundless, and our Arab world is brimming with talents that radiate their creativity globally.
A salute to every bearer of peace and love, and a sincere thank you to those who dream with us of a world worthy of beauty. Each step, as I pledged 45 years ago, is a new beginning, and what lies ahead is undoubtedly more beautiful.
With all my love, Elie Saab
“The 1001 Seasons of ELIE SAAB” Event Dazzles Riyadh Season with Glamour, Fashion &Iconic Performances. Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – November 14, 2024: Last night, the highly anticipated “The 1001 Seasons of ELIE SAAB” event captivated audiences not only in Riyadh but far beyond the Middle East region, merging fashion and unforgettable performances into an extraordinary evening.
The 1001 Seasons of ELIE SAAB Hosted by His Excellency Turki Bin Abdul Mohsen Al-Alshaikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority and Mr. Elie Saab, the event was part of the Riyadh Season official calendar, the first, but above all, the celebration of 45th anniversary of the brand. Saab’s vision was complemented by the styling of Carine Roitfeld, renowned for her bold aesthetic, adding a fresh, contemporary twist to the collection that mesmerized the audience.
The 1001 Seasons of ELIE SAAB, the event was attended by more than one thousand and one guests and a star-studded list of notable personalities, including high-profile celebrities, industry leaders, fashion influencers, international editors, and cultural icons such as: His Excellency Turki Bin Abdul Mohsen Al-Alshaikh, Elie Saab, Elie Saab Jr, Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Camila Cabello, Amr Diab, Nancy Ajram, Carine Roitfeld, Blanca Li, Halle Berry, Monica Bellucci, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Poppy Delevingne, Kelly Rutherford, Hande Erçel, Youssra, Nadine Njeim, Cyrine Abdel Nour, Sulafa Mimar, Jourdan Dunn, Adriana Lima, Alek Wek, Amelia Gray Hamlin, Candice Swanepoel, Helena Christensen, Maria Carla Boscono, Eva Herzigova, Stella Maxwell, Anne V, Veronica Ferraro, Tamara Kalinić, Chriselle Lim, Xenia Adonts and Eva Apio, among others. Stunning Performances by Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez, Camila Cabello, Nancy Ajram & Amr Diab.
The event featured electrifying performances by global music icons Celine Dion, Jennifer Lopez, and Camila Cabello whose powerful voices and stage presence brought an added layer of magic to the evening. Their performances, each curated to harmonize with the thematic journey of “The 1001 Seasons of ELIE SAAB,” left the audience in awe, heightening the emotional impact of each fashion segment.
The showcase was further enriched by performances from celebrated Middle Eastern artists Nancy Ajram and Amr Diab, who skillfully infused the evening with local cultural resonance. These Arab talents provided a beautiful connection between the event’s inspiration and the heritage of the region, creating a unique fusion that honored both global and local artistic expressions.
Unparalleled Artistic Direction by Blanca Li, Adding to the evening’s allure were breathtaking performances under the direction of acclaimed choreographer Blanca Li. The stage came alive with a series of artistic performances that seamlessly integrated with the fashion presentation, creating a dynamic fusion of movement, music, and couture.
Global Broadcast Extends the Event’s Reach, “The 1001 Seasons of ELIE SAAB” was broadcast live on MBC Channel and streamed across major fashion and lifestyle platforms, allowing a global audience to experience this unique event in real-time, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s position as a burgeoning global hub for fashion and entertainment though Riyadh Season.
About Riyadh Season, Riyadh Season, launched in 2019, has rapidly grown into one of the world’s premier entertainment festivals, drawing visitors globally with an unparalleled lineup of concerts, sporting events, and cultural showcases each winter.
About ELIE SAAB, Since founding his couture atelier in Beirut in 1982, Elie Saab has become a household name in haute couture and luxury fashion. Known for his exceptional craftsmanship and timeless designs, Saab’s creations continue to be sought after by royalty, celebrities, and style icons worldwide.
All images Elie Saab, The 1001 Seasons – Celebration of 45th Anniversary in Riyadh by ELIE SAAB MAISON. PR Agency KCD Worldwide Paris and London.