The fashion industry in Lebanon has long been a vibrant and influential part of the country’s economy and cultural identity. Known for its rich heritage in craftsmanship and design, Lebanon has become a hub for high-end fashion, blending traditional elements with modern trends. Beirut, often referred to as the “Paris of the Middle East,” serves as a focal point for the region’s fashion scene, hosting numerous fashion shows, exhibitions, and design events that attract international attention. Lebanese designers have gained global recognition for their creativity, elegance, and unique styles, with names like Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad, and Reem Acra becoming synonymous with haute couture.
In addition to its renowned fashion designers, Lebanon is home to a growing number of textile manufacturers, fabric suppliers, and accessory producers, making it a key player in the broader fashion supply chain. Despite challenges such as political instability and economic fluctuations, the Lebanese fashion industry continues to thrive, driven by a passionate and resilient creative community that seeks to maintain Lebanon’s legacy as a global fashion destination.
Lebanon is located in West Asia and shares borders with the Mediterranean Sea to the west, Syria to the north and east, and Israel to the south. Lebanon’s geographical location at the crossroads of the Mediterranean and the Arab world has led to the formation of religious, racial, and cultural diversity.
Lebanon is called the bride of the Middle East, and Beirut is one of the top cities in the Arab world in terms of quality of life.
Beirut is the capital city of Lebanon. It has long been described as the “most fashionable city in the Middle East” due to the abundance of fashion designers and the holding of various fashion shows. However, due to multiple wars, the name Beirut was associated with images of ruins for decades.
Gradually, Beirut finds its colorful and lively face. Despite the problems caused by the influx of large numbers of Syrian refugees into Lebanon, the political unrest, and the activities of religious extremist groups, young Lebanese fashion designers are trying to present a different picture of Lebanon.
Fashion Industry in Lebanon
Some young Lebanese fashion designers have made their way to major fashion shows in Europe, such as French fashion shows. International experts believe that compliance with international standards in the design and execution of fashion shows has led Lebanon to the global borders of the fashion world.
Fashion industry in Lebanon and clothing sector are serious issues. Lebanese Fashion businesses range from the retail of affordable clothing to the in-house production of luxury clothing. Some Lebanese brands create regular collections in ready-to-wear, couture, and accessories with a small number of models elaborated by a designer who is frequently the brand’s founder.
Others focus on tailoring rather than designing their own unique collections. They replicate and alternate existing designs to cater to the needs of their clientele.
Beirut designers are the first choice for people who live in the Middle East and can afford custom clothing. Lebanese designers are regarded as regional fashion designers, and the country has long been a popular shopping destination for Middle Eastern visitors.
The majority of great Lebanese designers began their careers in couture and were well-known for their red-carpet designs. In fact, in many people’s minds, Lebanese fashion is usually linked with glamorous evening dresses.
Some Lebanese designers have a global reputation by hosting fashion shows in the top international fashion capitals and designing clothes for many celebrities worldwide. Elie Saab, Zuhair Murad, Basil Soda, Rabih Kayrouz, Abed Mahfouz, Tony Ward, Georges Chakra, Georges Hobeika, and Robert Abi Nader are some of the Lebanese fashion designers who paved the way to the worldwide scene.
In comparison to many other countries in the region, Lebanon has less censorship and more freedom of expression. This openness, combined with a diverse and cosmopolitan population, has resulted in a thriving artistic and creative scene that distinguishes Lebanon regionally.
Furthermore, Lebanese designers indicate that local and regional press and lifestyle websites provided them with excellent exposure to customers. They also cited the small size of Lebanon as one of the benefits of operating in the country, as it makes it easier for them to set up a company and contact suppliers.
On the other hand, some Lebanese fashion designers have supply chain issues because suppliers tend to store textiles for formal evening wear, which is in higher demand, and have had to restrict the variety of their stock due to the country’s economic circumstances.
Moreover, they have some difficulties accessing foreign markets. Buyers usually see fashion houses’ collections during trade events, exhibitions, fashion shows, or private showrooms. The majority of sales occur in one of the world’s fashion capitals, such as Paris, Milan, New York, or London. Emerging Lebanese designers generally cannot afford to attend these exhibits because they are highly expensive. Lack of support and access to finance is the other problem of Lebanese fashion designers.
In conclusion, the Lebanese fashion industry enjoys several advantages, including the local culture, the quality of life, and the dynamics of other linked sectors, such as tourism, notably in terms of knowledge exchanges. These information exchanges feed into fashion designers’ careers and serve as the “engine” for some Lebanese fashion designers’ worldwide and regional success, which has an impact on local and regional growth.
However, the lack of governmental or institutional support and intermediary organizations such as professional associations, trade organizations, or a fashion council representing the national fashion industry, organizing events, encouraging more knowledge exchanges, and promoting young designers are limiting the industry’s future development.
Pros and Cons of Lebanon’s Fashion and Garment Sector
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Globally Recognized Designers: Lebanese designers like Elie Saab and Zuhair Murad are globally acclaimed, boosting Lebanon’s reputation as a fashion hub. | Economic Instability: Frequent political and economic crises impact local production, export capabilities, and investment in the sector. |
| Skilled Artisans and Tailors: Lebanon boasts a rich heritage of skilled craftsmanship in embroidery, couture, and tailoring. | High Production Costs: Manufacturing costs are high due to reliance on imports for raw materials and limited local production infrastructure |
| Strategic Location: Situated at the crossroads of East and West, Lebanon enjoys access to diverse markets in Europe, the Gulf, and Asia. | Weak Infrastructure: Insufficient power supply and outdated logistics hinder efficient production and export. |
| Strong Educational Framework: Institutions like ESMOD Beirut and Starch Foundation foster local talent and innovation. | Brain Drain: Many talented designers and professionals leave Lebanon for more stable opportunities abroad. |
| Fusion of Tradition and Modernity: Designers blend Lebanese cultural elements with modern trends, creating unique and competitive designs. | Limited Domestic Market: The purchasing power of the local market is limited due to economic challenges, affecting domestic sales. |
| Rising Focus on Sustainability: Brands like Vanina and Overworked champion ethical fashion and sustainable practices. | Dependence on Imported Fabrics: Limited local textile production forces heavy reliance on imported materials, raising costs and reducing self-sufficiency. |
| Regional and International Appeal: Lebanese fashion has a strong presence in Gulf markets, weddings, and red-carpet events worldwide. | Competition from Global Brands: The dominance of fast fashion and international luxury brands poses stiff competition for local designers. |
| Support for Emerging Designers: Programs like Starch Foundation and other platforms help upcoming designers showcase their talent. | Lack of Government Support: Minimal governmental incentives and infrastructure for the textile and fashion industries. |
Top Textile and Fashion Manufacturers in Lebanon:
Abi Nasr La Reine
Address: in Nahr Ibrahim – Lebanon
Phone: 961-9-478050
Fax: 961-9-478050
Website: www.abinasrlareine.com
Email: [email protected]
Founded in 1970 in Beirut, Ets Abi Nasr has grown into a trusted name in the clothing industry. Relocating to its current premises in 1990, the company offers a diverse range of products, including ladies’ briefs and underwear, children’s socks and knitwear, and men’s underwear.
Ets Abi Nasr sources premium raw materials from around the globe, ensuring exceptional quality in every product. Cotton stitching threads are imported from Turkey, accessories and knitted materials come from the Far East, sock knitting yarn is sourced from Italy, and decorative motives are from France.
The company proudly markets its products under well-recognized brand names:
- ZEINA: A vibrant collection for children.
- LADY: Premium ladies’ underwear.
- LA REINE: A mid-range line balancing style and value.
- DIANA: A popular, budget-friendly range.
With decades of experience, a commitment to quality, and a focus on delivering products that meet diverse consumer needs, Ets Abi Nasr continues to be a cornerstone in the regional textile and garment industry.
Uniforia
website: www.uniforia.com/
Address: Rahal Center – Ground Floor, Dora Main Highway, Beirut – Lebanon
Tel: +961 1 889105 or 106
Mobile: +961 70 776644
Email: [email protected]
With over 50 years of experience in the apparel and textiles industry, Uniforia is a trusted name in uniform production, proudly serving renowned local and international organizations.
Our expertise shines through in every product we deliver, whether it’s a simple printed t-shirt or a high-performance 3-layer waterproof jacket featuring advanced designs, pockets, and embroidery.
At Uniforia, we combine quality craftsmanship with affordability, ensuring factory-direct prices without compromising on excellence. We are dedicated to providing an exceptional customer experience, making us a preferred partner in uniform manufacturing worldwide.
Rakha Textiles
Website: www.rakhatextiles.com/
Rakha Textiles has been a leader in the Lebanese and Middle Eastern markets for 45 years, delivering a wide array of fabrics and specialized fabric treatments. Headquartered in Beirut, the company caters to furnishing projects for hotels, restaurants, and hospitals, offering in-house treatments that align with international safety and quality benchmarks.
Recognizing the need for superior textile standards in Lebanon, Rakha Textiles provides medical and antibacterial fabrics for hospitals and fire-treated materials for hotels and furnished apartments, ensuring both safety and excellence across all projects.
Jonatex Home S.a.r.l
Website: www.jonatexhome.com/
Address: Jouret El-Ballout Main Road, P.O.Box 49 Broumana, METN, Lebanon
Tel: +961.4.80 82 40
Email: [email protected]
Jonatex, founded in 1941 by Joseph Najjar in the heart of Beirut’s Souk Ayyas, has been a staple in the household linens industry for over 80 years. Originally a home linen shop, the company has since evolved into a leading manufacturer and distributor of mid- to high-end bed and bath linens. Due to various challenges in Lebanon, Jonatex expanded its presence by establishing retail stores and wholesale showrooms in Broumana and Jouret El-Ballout, 15 km from Beirut.
Now in its third generation, Jonatex is built on a foundation of strong family values, respect, and a commitment to ethical business practices. Through exclusive partnerships with European designers and linen weaving companies, Jonatex distributes its own conceived products across Lebanon and the Middle East. The company’s rich heritage and dedication to quality are reflected in its long-standing success and continued growth in the industry.
FabricAID
Website: www.fabricaid.me/
Tel: +961 (76) 900230
Email: [email protected]
Address: Mkalles – Industrial District – Debahy Building – Floor 2, Lebanon
FabricAID was founded by Omar Itani in December 2016 after he discovered that the clothes his family donated were going to waste due to mismatched needs. Realizing the lack of an organized system for collecting and redistributing used clothing in Lebanon, he started a social media experiment to collect clothes from friends, sort them, and distribute them to disadvantaged families based on their specific needs. The response was overwhelming, leading to the official launch of FabricAID.
The MENA region faces a significant gap in sustainable second-hand clothing collection and redistribution. Most NGOs and civil campaigns collect only limited amounts of donated clothing, and they struggle to scale operations due to the expensive and labor-intensive nature of sorting, cleaning, and distributing garments. FabricAID addresses these challenges by providing a much-needed solution, supporting the fashion industry’s sustainable practices in Lebanon.
Joseph SAARTI
Website: www.fsaarti.com/
Email: [email protected]
Antoineirani
Webmail: www.antoineirani.com
Tel: 09 937 625 – 09 643 708
Email: [email protected]
[email protected]
Lebanon
With over 40 years of experience, the company prides itself on offering the best textiles and accessories at competitive prices, while providing personalized and innovative services. Their wide selection of patterns and colors allows customers to enhance their designs and even influence the mood of the spaces or garments they create.
SKAFF
Website: www.skaffgroup.com
PHONE: +961 76 113 444
EMAIL: [email protected]
ADDRESS: LA GALLERIA SARL Falougha main road Haytham Abu El Hosn Centre, Lebanon
SKAFF is a leader in Lebanon’s fashion industry, specializing in decorative fabrics. Founded in 1965 by Georges SKAFF, the family-owned and operated business has expanded to offer a comprehensive range of home decoration products, including textiles, wallpaper, furniture, and home accessories. SKAFF’s growth is driven by a deep passion for quality and design, a passion that has been passed down through generations
MJM Group Co.
Website: www.mjmgroupco.com/
Address: Istiklal Sreet, Rana Building, Ground Floor, Beirut, Lebanon.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 00961-1-375771
MJM Group Co. has been a prominent player in the men’s apparel market since 1975, specializing in shirt manufacturing. With over 30 years of experience, the company combines the extensive knowledge of its founder in the clothing and textile industry. MJM is known for producing high-quality shirts crafted from premium Italian materials, including textiles, interlining, and buttons. The shirts stand out for their stylish designs, fashion-forward content, and precise manufacturing techniques. Skilled artisans meticulously oversee every step of the production process, ensuring attention to detail and delivering an exclusive product to customers.
Liban Tissus
Website: www.libantissus.com/
Address: Mount Lebanon Fanar, Main Road. Gardenia Bldg. Lebanon
Phone: +961 81 536270
Email: [email protected]
Established in 2011, LibanTissus specializes in manufacturing and supplying customized uniforms that reflect an organization’s brand image. Serving both local and international clients across various industries, including hospitality, retail, finance, corporate, healthcare, and more, the company has elevated the market with advanced technology and machinery.
LibanTissus is committed to delivering high-quality, durable, and timeless designs in fabrics, colors, styles, and textures. Their in-house embroidery service supports mass production while maintaining precision and quality.
With a team of experienced professionals, LibanTissus ensures a smooth delivery and exceptional service, driven by a strong work ethic and pride in their craft.
Gemy Maalouf
Website: www.gemymaalouf.com/
WhatsApp: +961 81 275 568
Email: [email protected]
In 1997, Gemy Maalouf established her first atelier in Beirut, pioneering the “Couture a Porter” concept in Lebanon. Known for her unique storytelling through fashion, Maalouf’s designs aim to inspire women at every stage of life. Her brand celebrates individuality, encouraging women to stay true to themselves and their values, free from societal constraints.
Gemy Maalouf’s signature style combines delicate fabrics, striking colors, and innovative cuts, resulting in exquisite pieces with a story of existence and perseverance. Her designs have a global reach, with over 150 boutiques across 48 countries. The brand is a regular presence at fashion weeks in major capitals worldwide.
Recognized by Forbes as one of the “30 Women Behind Middle Eastern Brands” for three consecutive years, Maalouf continues to empower women through her powerful creations. To make her designs accessible to all, she launched an online store, allowing women worldwide to experience her work firsthand.
White City Linens
Website: www.whitecitylinen.com/
Address: Facing Saint Charbel Church / Fanar / Lebanon
P.O. Box: 90-329 /Jdeideh / Lebanon
Tel: (961) 1-690240 / 690250
E-mail: [email protected]
For over 50 years, White City Linens has been a leading provider of high-quality linens and professional services for every occasion. With a dedicated team of over 60 employees across our wholesale branch, retail shops, and integrated workshops, we strive to deliver the best service possible to our clients.
Specializing in high-quality linens and handmade accessories, we offer a wide range of products including tablecloths, napkins, cushions, upholstery, and curtain fabrics. We collaborate with industry professionals such as hoteliers, event managers, and interior designers to provide tailored linens that meet our clients’ specific needs, ensuring elegance and style in every setting.
FD Group
Website: www.daccachegroup.com
Address: Sad el baouchrieh Beirut, industrial city, Sfeir center, Lebanon
Phone: +961 1 497 046
Email: [email protected]
FD Group is a successful family-owned business with nearly 60 years of experience. Originally starting as a uniform manufacturer, the company has expanded its operations to include linen products manufacturing.
Today, FD Group designs and manufactures private-label home textiles, providing a wide range of premium linen products to hospitals and hotels. The company is known for using top-quality materials, impeccable craftsmanship, and ensuring durability in all of its products. These high standards allow FD Group to consistently meet the needs of its clients in the hospitality and healthcare sectors.
KASKAS FABRICS
https://www.kaskasco.com/
Address: Diala Building, Adnan Hakim Street, Jnah Area, Beirut, Lebanon
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 009611820333
Founded in 1960 as a small family business, this company has expanded over the years and now operates its own controlled manufacturing plant in Lebanon. In addition, it has established contracted production facilities in China, India, Taiwan, and Turkey. The company specializes in supplying fabrics for the high-end fashion market, serving fabric shops, designers, and luxury brands. With decades of experience, it ensures the highest quality materials and production standards to meet the needs of the most discerning fashion professionals.
SANIPRO
Website: www.sanipro.com/
Phone: +961-1-688 222
Mobile: +961-3-198 255
Email: [email protected]
Address: LTM, Bld. #27, #82 St. Elias street, Mkalles, Lebanon
SANIPRO is a global leader in the cleaning and maintenance industry, offering comprehensive solutions through its design, manufacturing, marketing, and export of cleaning chemicals. As a representative of leading brands, SANIPRO has established itself as a success story, recognized for its professionalism, dedication, and exceptional service.
With rapid expansion driven by the growing demand in local and regional markets, SANIPRO continues to be a forward-thinking supplier in the hygiene and sanitation industry. The company’s core strength lies in its ability to understand, meet, and exceed customer needs through personalized account management.
ABI KHALIL LLC
Website: www.abikhalil.com/
Address: Bec Center, Jal El Dib – Highway, P.O. Box: 901587 Jdeideh, Beirut, Lebanon
Tel. 961 4 715785
E-mail: [email protected]
ABI KHALIL LLC is a family-run business founded in Beirut, Lebanon, by the ABI KHALIL family. Originally focused on iron and woodworking, the company expanded into the modern furnishing sector between 1958 and 1965, gaining recognition for its commitment to quality. A significant turning point in the company’s history occurred in the late 1960s, coinciding with the arrival of design in Lebanon.
This period marked the company’s collaboration with external architects, leading to a wealth of knowledge and the separation of design from production. This transition facilitated ABI KHALIL’s shift from artisan crafts to industrial-scale operations, establishing the company as a prominent player in the modern furnishing market
