| By Arab News

Saudi Arabia is taking another step in professionalizing its fashion industry with the launch of a new executive-level academic program, developed through an international collaboration with one of Europe’s most prestigious fashion institutions.

Global Academic Partnership Takes Shape

The Saudi Fashion Commission has introduced an Executive Master’s in Fashion and Luxury in collaboration with the Institute Français de la Mode (IFM), a globally recognized leader in fashion and luxury education. The initiative, reported by the Saudi Press Agency, marks a major advancement in specialized, sector-focused learning within the Kingdom.

Designed for Professionals in Motion

Structured as a 15-month executive program, the course is tailored for working professionals who aim to strengthen leadership and strategic decision-making skills without pausing their careers. The format reflects the realities of senior industry roles, combining flexibility with academic rigor.

Riyadh–Paris Learning Experience

Participants will engage in a blended learning model that integrates on-site sessions in Riyadh and Paris with supervised online coursework. This cross-border structure allows students to gain regional insight while being exposed to global fashion and luxury ecosystems.

Curriculum Built Around Industry Demand

Developed through extensive market analysis, the curriculum covers a wide range of critical themes, including:

• Creative development and design thinking
• Brand positioning and strategy
• Sustainability and ethical fashion
• Consumer insights and behavior
• Retail innovation and media dynamics
• Collection planning and trend forecasting

The program is designed to equip participants with analytical and managerial competencies relevant to both regional and international fashion markets.

Research as a Driver of Sector Growth

As part of the graduation requirements, participants must complete a master’s thesis that contributes original insights or solutions aimed at advancing the fashion industry. The research component reinforces the program’s ambition to shape thought leadership rather than solely technical expertise.

Instruction Led by Global Specialists

The academic delivery will be led by IFM experts specializing in fashion history, sustainability, luxury management, consumer behavior, and design. Learning is supported by a digital platform offering direct academic supervision throughout the program.

Continuing a Franco-Saudi Fashion Alliance

The executive master’s program builds on an ongoing partnership between the Saudi Fashion Commission and IFM, established in June 2022, which focuses on advanced education and talent development initiatives. The collaboration reflects Saudi Arabia’s broader strategy to cultivate world-class creative industries aligned with global standards.

Source:

Arab News. (2025). Saudi Fashion Commission launches executive master’s program. https://www.arabnews.com/node/2627751/saudi-arabia