Saudi and Emirati women are the world’s biggest spenders on beauty and personal care products. That buying power has also translated into an innovative and authentic pool of Arab beauty brand founders creating makeup products that have earned a special place in our bathroom counter. There are several reasons to support homegrown brands. Not only do they cater to our unique needs and preferences, but they also celebrate our culture in a way global brands often can’t. When it comes to Arab-owned makeup brands, we’re seeing innovation, inclusivity, and authenticity at the forefront. Below, we rounded up some of the most popular Arab-owned makeup brands to support and shop. From OG brands like Huda Beauty to newer options from SimiHaze and Nadine Njeim, you’re bound to find a new favorite to add to your collection.
Huda Beauty
Huda Beauty, founded by Iraqi beauty mogul Huda Kattan, has become a global powerhouse in the beauty industry. What started with strip-on eyelashes has become a multi-billion dollar company, offering a wide range of luxurious products including foundation, lipstick, eyeshadow palettes, and more. Plus, Kattan is very outspoken in her unwavering support for Palestine.
Nadine Njeim Beauty
Founded by Lebanese actress and former Miss Lebanon Nadine Nassib Njeim earlier this year, Nadine Njeim Beauty celebrates diversity and inclusivity through an assortment of clean, cruelty-free beauty products designed to enhance your natural features—from a light-catching liquid highlighter to a hydrating lip oil.
Bex Beauty
Known for her dynamic presence in the music scene, Emirati-Yemeni singer Balqees Fathi brings the same bold energy to her makeup line, Bex Beauty (Named for her nickname used by close friends and family). Known for its expansive, inclusive take on complexion products, it’s equally as loved for its long-lasting lipsticks and glowy highlighter sticks.
SimiHaze Beauty
SimiHaze Beauty, which recently launched in the region, is the brainchild of Palestinian-American DJ duo Simi and Haze Khadra. The twins founded their vegan, cruelty-free line of skincare-infused blushers, lipsticks, bronzers, lip balms, and eye stickers in 2021. In addition to a nourishing and hydrating ingredient list, the multi-use formulas also come in sleek, playful packaging that you’ll want to proudly display on your bathroom counter.
Hindash Cosmetics
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The Jordanian painter-turned-celebrity-makeup-artist Mohammed Hindash launched his eponymous cosmetics line in 2021. All of the eyeshadow palettes, lipsticks, mascaras, and eyeliners that make up the namesake brand’s collection are vegan and cruelty-free.
Bassam Fattouh Cosmetics
Bassam Fattouh is an incredible celebrity makeup artist and his line of lipsticks, translucent powders, highlighters, eyeshadow palettes, foundations, bronzers, and blushers are made with Arab women in mind.
By Mina Sheikhly
Founded by Iraqi beauty influencer Mina Sheikhly, By Mina Sheikhly has quickly gained a loyal following for its ability to deliver dramatic length, volume, and curl in a single swipe. With a focus on clean, cruelty-free mascaras, the eponymously-named brand is redefining what it means to have bold, beautiful lashes that last all day.