Fashion is one of the toughest industries to crack. It’s fiercely competitive, expensive to navigate, and often feels like an exclusive club where connections can make or break your chances. For aspiring designers in the UAE, getting noticed on the global stage can seem nearly impossible. But here’s some good news: Oscar de la Renta is about to change that.
The legendary American fashion house has partnered with the Design Council Abu Dhabi (DCAD) to launch a unique residency program for female designers in the UAE. With the support of Sheikha Shamsa bint Hamdan, this initiative is your chance to not only build your portfolio but also gain international recognition—without the overwhelming cost or barriers that often come with breaking into the industry.
Hosted at Abu Dhabi University, the program will select 10 to 15 promising participants to create their own collections, blending local craftsmanship with global design practices. By the end, the top three students will land a once-in-a-lifetime three-month internship at Oscar de la Renta’s New York headquarters starting in January 2026.
From hands-on experience to showcasing your work alongside international and local designers, this program will help you build the connections and credibility needed to stand out in one of the world’s most cutthroat industries.
And it doesn’t stop there. The program kicks off with a trunk show in January, spotlighting Oscar de la Renta’s designs alongside UAE-based fashion and artisan brands. It all culminates in October 2025 with a grand exhibition at the Bassam Freiha Art Foundation on Saadiyat Island, celebrating the graduates’ achievements.
Oscar de la Renta’s creative director, Kim, shared their excitement: “I can’t wait to discover new talent from the UAE and learn more about the region’s incredible culture. This program is a great way to share industry insights and showcase the amazing work coming out of the Middle East.”
To be eligible, applicants need a bachelor’s degree and a background in fashion design. The program is exclusively open to female UAE nationals and residents.
For anyone dreaming of a career in fashion, this is your golden ticket to gain the skills, exposure, and support you need to break into the industry. Opportunities like this don’t come around often—don’t let it pass you by.
