Saudi Arabia builds fashion design education around AI tools
Academics and fashion professionals gathered in Jeddah this week to discuss how artificial intelligence is reshaping design work and career paths in Saudi Arabia's creative sector. The event, organized by the Future High Institute for Training and the University of Business and Technology, brought together 40 women and young creatives to explore opportunities in fashion, technology, and design.
The gathering marked the launch of "Fashion and Apparel Design," a new book by Prof. Dalal Al-Shareef that examines Saudi Arabia's growing fashion industry. Al-Shareef, a fashion design and cultural heritage expert, said the book addresses what designers actually need to succeed: technical knowledge, academic training, and ongoing skill development.
"Fashion specialization goes beyond creativity alone," Al-Shareef said. "It requires technical knowledge, academic learning, and continuous skill development."
AI moves from support tool to core process
Prof. Rajaa Moumena, founder and CEO of the institute, said AI has moved beyond being a supporting tool in fashion education. Designers now use it for trend forecasting, digital sketches, and production efficiency.
"Artificial intelligence is no longer just a supporting tool in fashion education; it is becoming part of the creative process itself," Moumena said. "For young Saudi designers, understanding these tools is essential to competing in a fast-evolving global industry while also creating designs that reflect local identity and culture."
A panel discussion titled "Fashion Profession and the Future" explored how AI is reshaping industry practices and creating new career opportunities for Saudi designers. The session covered fashion illustration, design techniques, and how technology is changing the work itself.
For creatives looking to stay current, understanding how to work with these tools is no longer optional. AI for Creatives covers practical applications for design professionals, while AI Design Courses offer deeper technical training for those building design workflows.
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