Riyadh, September 2, 2025 – The Saudi Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with its Fashion Commission, is set to present a series of cultural fashion activations in Venice, Italy, highlighting the evolution of Saudi fashion at the intersection of tradition and innovation. The program, titled “The Saudi Ministry of Culture in Abbazia,” will run at the historic Abbazia building from September 14 to October 12, 2025.
At the heart of the program is “Threads of Identity: Saudi House of Fashion,” an exhibition that draws from the Ministry’s Saudi 100 Brands initiative—a national platform dedicated to nurturing emerging fashion talent. On display will be garments, textiles, and accessories that reflect the cultural diversity of Saudi Arabia’s regions, blending traditional techniques such as embroidery and weaving with contemporary silhouettes and materials.
Designed as an intimate gallery-style showcase, the exhibition incorporates elevated platforms, wall storytelling panels, and subtle lighting to create an immersive atmosphere. Visitors will be invited to journey through a visual narrative of identity and creativity, moving from heritage influences to modern interpretations.
Complementing the exhibition is a Pop-Up Store by Saudi fashion designer KAF by KAF, featuring the Lightbound Sportswear collection, a first-of-its-kind collaboration with adidas. Inspired by moonlight as a symbol of self-discovery and unity, the collection fuses traditional Saudi silhouettes with contemporary sportswear aesthetics. Alongside the collaborative line, the store will also present KAF by KAF’s signature pieces, celebrated for their sustainable approach, handcrafted details, and bold reinterpretations of tradition.
This initiative offers Italian and international audiences an opportunity to discover the creative vitality of Saudi Arabia’s emerging fashion scene, while also underscoring the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering cultural exchange on a global stage.
“The Saudi Ministry of Culture in Abbazia” reflects the Ministry’s broader mission to highlight the richness of Saudi artistic and cultural expression through partnerships with leading Venetian and Italian institutions. It is part of an ongoing effort to strengthen the international presence of Saudi culture and showcase the country’s renaissance in the creative industries.
Event Details
📍 Threads of Identity: Saudi House of Fashion
Abbazia Building, Dorsoduro 172, Venice
September 14 – October 12, 2025
Daily, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Free Admission
📍 KAF by KAF Pop-Up Store (featuring the adidas collaboration)
Abbazia Building, Dorsoduro 172, Venice
September 14 – October 12, 2025
Daily, 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Free Admission
