Hanif Shaikh – Dubai’s Fashion Industry King Strengthening the Country’s Global Fashion Presence
Hanif Shaikh Recognized as a Driving Force in Dubai’s Fashion Industry
Dubai, UAE – 2025 – Hanif Shaikh, Founder and Chairman of Emirates Holding Group, has been recognized as one of the most influential figures in Dubai’s fashion and luxury sector, earning the industry title of “Dubai’s Fashion Industry King.”
With a career spanning over three decades, Shaikh has built a reputation for transforming Dubai into a leading destination for fashion, culture, and luxury events. He has successfully organized more than 500 exhibitions and 200 major fashion and lifestyle showcases, bringing together international designers, luxury houses, and global investors under one platform.
Most recently, Shaikh led the Emirates Luxury Show – Eternal Runway and the Emirates Real Estate Awards in Dubai, which attracted participation from global celebrities, influencers, and luxury brands. These platforms have reinforced the city’s standing as a global fashion hub.
Building on this momentum, Shaikh is now taking his fashion vision beyond the UAE, with upcoming editions of the Emirates Luxury Show planned in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and other international markets. These shows are set to strengthen cross-cultural fashion exchange and position the GCC as a collective fashion powerhouse.
A central part of Shaikh’s mission is to support and promote talent from the UAE, the Middle East, and India, offering a stage for emerging and established designers, models, and creative professionals to showcase their work to global audiences. His events are designed not only as luxury showcases but also as platforms for talent empowerment and industry growth.
In recognition of his contributions, Shaikh has received over 100 accolades, including the Pride of UAE Award, Fashion Icon and the life time achievement Award, acknowledging his role in advancing the UAE’s position in the global luxury economy.
“Dubai’s fashion story is one of ambition and global relevance,” said Shaikh. “My vision has always been to create sustainable, world-class platforms that empower talent, promote cultural dialogue, and align with Dubai’s growth as a global style capital. With our upcoming shows in Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, and beyond, we are also taking UAE, Middle Eastern, and Indian designers onto the world stage.”
Through Emirates Holding Group, Shaikh has also expanded into ESG manufacturing, general trading, and international infrastructure projects, further diversifying his portfolio while keeping luxury and innovation at the centre of his ventures.
As the UAE strengthens its reputation as a global luxury and cultural destination, Hanif Shaikh’s role continues to be instrumental in shaping the future of the region’s fashion industry.
About Hanif Shaikh
Hanif Shaikh is the founder & and chairman of Emirates Holding Group, UAE. A veteran in fashion, luxury, and international exhibitions, he has been honoured globally for his contributions to business, cultural empowerment, and sustainable development.