Global fashion house Oscar de la Renta is collaborating with the inaugural Design Council Abu Dhabi (DCAD) Fashion and Design Residency Program, an initiative led by Her Highness Sheikha Shamsa Bint Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Nahyan.

The program aims to foster innovation and excellence in the UAE’s fashion industry, offering exclusive opportunities for talented female designers. It brings together leading figures from the Middle East, the United States, and Singapore.

Hosted at Abu Dhabi University, the residency is deeply rooted in the emirate’s cultural heritage, focusing on empowering emerging female designers. Through structured curricula, mentorship, and international exposure, the initiative seeks to establish Abu Dhabi as a hub for contemporary fashion while promoting sustainable and socially responsible design practices.

The residency offers participants opportunities to collaborate with international talent. Upon completion, participants will present their collections at a final showcase, with the top three designers earning a prestigious three-month internship at Oscar de la Renta’s New York headquarters.

“I’m excited to discover emerging talent from the UAE and deepen my understanding of the culture through this initiative,” said Laura Kim, Creative Director of Oscar de la Renta and co-founder of luxury label MONSE. “The DCAD Fashion and Design Residency Program is a great platform to share industry  knowledge and spotlight Middle Eastern designers who deserve global recognition.”

Eligibility for the program is exclusive to female UAE nationals and residents with a background in fashion design, with only 10-15 applicants to be selected. The program will begin in January 2025, with applications closing in December.

“We’re confident that this residency will inspire the next generation of fashion designers,  promote sustainable practices, and create a platform for cultural exchange,” said Lim.