Just a few years ago, Arab models were very rare in the fashion industry—often included as mere tokens. Fast-forward to 2024, and the landscape has transformed dramatically. Arab models are no longer just part of the conversation; they’re dominating it, claiming space at the very top of the industry. Moroccan-Italian model Malika El-Maslouhi is a prime example of this shift. Ranked among the industry’s top earners, she has become a powerhouse in fashion, walking for luxury houses like Chanel and Dior while securing high-profile campaigns that solidify her global appeal. El-Maslouhi stands alongside other trailblazing Arab superstars like Imaan Hammam, whose dual Moroccan and Egyptian heritage has made her a vocal advocate for diversity, and Bella and Gigi Hadid, Palestinian-Dutch mega-models who have turned their global fame into platforms for representation and activism. Their success signals that Arab talent is not only here to stay but leading the charge.
With the 2024 models.com Model of the Year Awards officially underway, this year, Arab talent is front and center. Voting, open to the public from Dec. 9 to 13, offers fashion lovers the chance to celebrate the models who defined the year. Among the nominees are a group of Arab models who have not only graced international runways but also reshaped perceptions of beauty and identity in the global fashion industry. Their nominations mark a significant moment for representation, as they bring their heritage and individuality to an industry that is increasingly embracing diversity. These models are walking the walk, while breaking barriers and inspiring a generation to see themselves reflected on the world’s most prestigious stages.
Loli Bahia
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The Algerian-French model, is a contender in the prestigious Female Model of the Year category, a testament to her standout year on the runway. The 22-year-old has had quite an exciting year, closing for Chanel, walking for the likes of Louis Vuitton and Miu Miu, as well as fronting campaigns for major houses such as Gucci and Versace. She also lent her face to the cover of several prestigious magazines such as the American and French editions of Vogue.
Hedi Ben Tekaya
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The French-Tunisian model, is nominated for Male Model of the Year, the category that crowns the model who defined 2024. After winning the 2023 Readers’ Choice Breakout Men’s Star, Ben Tekaya continues his meteoric rise as one of fashion’s biggest names. This year alone, he walked for Louis Vuitton, Armani, and Jacquemus, and shot campaigns for Casablanca and Versace.
Walid Fiher
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The Moroccan catwalker joins Ben Tekaya in the Male Model of the Year category, solidifying North African representation at the top of the industry. His CV includes Hermes, Bottega Veneta, Moncler, Balmain, and Ferragamo, among many others.
Imaan Hammam
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Also nominated in the Female Model of the Year category is Egyptian-Moroccan-Dutch catwalker Imaan Hammam. The 28-year-old hardly needs an introduction, having already cemented her status as one of fashion’s most sought-after faces, gracing countless runways, magazine covers, and campaigns (we’ve practically lost track at this point) while advocating for diversity and inclusivity in the industry.
Gigi Hadid
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Nominated for Female Model of the Year, Gigi Hadid may have stepped back from the runway, but her year was far from quiet. She opened the 2024 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, graced multiple magazine covers, and debuted as creative director of her knitwear brand, Guest in Residence—proving she’s still a modern supermodel icon.
Bella Hadid
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Bella Hadid, affectionately known as the “Princess of Nazareth,” is recognized in the Social Movers category, a distinction that honors individuals who have leveraged their platforms for meaningful change. This year, Hadid has continued to be a vocal advocate for Palestine, using her global influence to shine a light on the struggles of her heritage. Whether through social media posts, interviews, or attending protests, the newly-minted Chopard brand ambassador has fearlessly addressed sensitive issues, often at personal and professional risk, to bring awareness to the plight of Palestinians.
