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Young Saudi’s journey to enrolling at one of the world’s oldest tailoring academies

Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
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Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
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Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
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Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
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Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
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Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy. (Supplied)
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Updated 09 February 2025

Young Saudi’s journey to enrolling at one of the world’s oldest tailoring academies

Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy
  • Yousef Tammar studies for 12 hours a day at the Accademia Nazionale dei Sartori
  • Aspiring tailor was inspired by Italian cuts at a young age

RIYADH: Yousef Tammar is a 23-year-old Saudi bespoke tailor currently studying at one of the world’s oldest schools of its kind in Italy.

Currently enrolled at the Accademia Nazionale dei Sartori in Rome — a tailoring academy that traces its roots back to 1575 — the Jeddah native has gone on a personal journey, which reflects his deep commitment to craftsmanship.

Tammar’s passion for fashion was ignited at the age of 14. Initially driven by a desire to present himself well among family and peers, he soon found inspiration in the vast world of style through YouTube videos focused on men’s fashion. “Fashion became a way for me to express myself and connect with others,” he told Arab News.

Growing up in ֱ, where traditional garments such as the thobe dominate daily wear, Tammar’s early exposure to fashion was characterized by a limited variety of clothing. He noticed that deviating from the norm could attract unwanted attention.

But a pivotal moment in Tammar’s journey occurred during a family trip to Italy just before his final year of high school. This trip introduced him to the intricate world of tailoring and artisanal garment-making.

A visit to Fortela in Forte dei Marmi, where he met owner Alessandro Squarzi, opened his eyes to bespoke tailoring and niche ready-to-wear garments.

“Meeting Alessandro was like unlocking a door to a whole new world of fashion,” Tammar said. This experience solidified his interest in pursuing a career in the industry.

His choice to study in Italy was largely serendipitous; the right course in pattern-making and sewing happened to be available there.

Still, “Italy has this aura about it that makes you feel fashion in your bones,” he explained. Even if other options were available, he would still choose Italy for its rich fashion heritage and vibrant atmosphere.

Throughout his educational journey, Tammar learned valuable lessons that shaped his approach to tailoring. He described how he discovered a way to exceed his own limits, and learned the importance of maintaining composure during challenging times.

“Every challenge is an opportunity to grow,” he said.

The contrast between the Italian approach to tailoring and what he experienced in ֱ soon became clear.

In Italy, the emphasis is on handwork and artisanship, while the garments he encountered in ֱ were predominantly mass-produced, even in prestigious tailoring shops.

Saudi culture significantly influences contemporary fashion, particularly in menswear, where traditional styles tend to dominate.

“Mainstream Saudi culture keeps fashion somewhat dormant,” Tammar said, noting that the culture leans toward conventional shapes and cuts.

However, he sees potential in modernizing traditional Saudi garments, such as the thobe and daglah, incorporating them into contemporary designs.

The fusion of Western and Middle Eastern styles excites him, as it creates opportunities for innovative silhouettes and distinctive combinations. “Fusion can bring a refreshing perspective to fashion,” he said, emphasizing the importance of blending influences.

Studying abroad presented its own set of challenges for Tammar, particularly in terms of language. Learning Italian became essential for effective communication, but it was a challenge he embraced with enthusiasm.

“Learning a new language opened up a whole new world for me,” he said.

Another hurdle has been adjusting his sleep schedule to accommodate the demanding nature of his studies, which often see him working for 12 hours a day.

A highlight of his journey was designing a daglah for the Harrod’s Hive 2025 event in Riyadh. “Creating something for such a prestigious event was surreal,” he said.

Most rewarding, however, has been the realization of his aspiration to become a master tailor.

Looking ahead, Tammar aims to bring artisanship and luxury bespoke craftsmanship to ֱ.

“I want to create a space where tradition meets modernity,” he said, as he hopes to establish his own bespoke tailoring shop and start his own fashion line once he accumulates enough experience.

Tammar hopes to see a future in Saudi fashion characterized by locally made garments and fabrics. “We should aspire to be producers, not just consumers,” he said, envisioning a broader range of styles beyond the traditional.

Tammar describes his personal style as adaptive, varying based on occasion and mood.

“I believe in the power of versatility in fashion,” he said. His own style incorporates tailored elegance in some situations while opting for loose and comfortable fits for work.

While current trends may not capture his attention, Tammar still draws inspiration from his peers in the fashion world: “My classmates inspire me daily; we learn from each other.” 

He said that his peers have had a significant influence on his approach to tailoring, including the designer, Noe Falchi, with whom he collaborated on a fashion show.

Speaking to aspiring tailors and designers in ֱ, Tammar emphasized the importance of devotion.

“You must be ready to commit fully to your goals,” he said, noting that success in the industry requires unwavering commitment.

He encouraged aspiring creatives to embrace change and remain open to growth, as adaptability is crucial in a dynamic field.

Sustainability is another cornerstone of Tammar’s philosophy. “We have a responsibility to promote sustainability in fashion,” he said. Each garment he creates is made to order, minimizing waste and ensuring that material consumption is carefully calculated.

Tammar’s journey demonstrates the power of passion, dedication and the fusion of different cultures, as he continues to carve out his path in the industry in ֱ and beyond.


ֱ, other Arab and Muslim nations back Trump’s Gaza peace plan

ֱ, other Arab and Muslim nations back Trump’s Gaza peace plan
Updated 30 September 2025

ֱ, other Arab and Muslim nations back Trump’s Gaza peace plan

ֱ, other Arab and Muslim nations back Trump’s Gaza peace plan
  • The US president unveils his 20-point proposal following talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at the White House
  • The Arab and Muslim ministers say they welcome Trump’s “sincere efforts” and are confident in his ability to “find a path to peace” in the region

RIYADH: Foreign ministers from ֱ, Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkiye, Qatar and Egypt expressed support for a peace plan to end the war in Gaza unveiled by US President Donald Trump on Monday.

He announced his proposal during a joint press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, following talks between the two leaders at the White House.

The Arab and Muslim ministers issued a joint statement in which they welcomed Trump’s “sincere efforts” and voiced confidence in his ability to “find a path to peace” in the region.

They highlighted the importance of working in partnership with Washington in pursuit of peace, describing the proposal as a chance to advance a comprehensive settlement, the Saudi Press Agency reported. The plan offers a framework for stability, they added.

The proposal, contained in a 20-point document released by the White House, includes a ceasefire agreement, an exchange of hostages held by Hamas and Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, a staged Israeli withdrawal from Gaza, the disarmament of Hamas, and the reconstruction of Gaza with the assistance of the international community.

Humanitarian aid would be allowed to flow into Gaza in large amounts, with relief efforts run by “neutral international bodies” including the UN and Red Crescent. There would be no forced displacement of Palestinians from the territory.

The US would work with Arab and other international partners to create a transitional authority to oversee security in Gaza. The internationally recognized Palestinian Authority would initially have a limited “representative” role in this, and would be expected to commit to reforms before its role can be expanded, with the aim of it eventually being able to govern.

Though the proposal refers to the ultimate possibility of “a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood,” the details of this were vague.

Netanyahu said he backed Trump’s plan. However, some elements seem to contradict the previously stated views of his government, in particular those related to the possibility of the Palestinian Authority eventually governing Gaza.

The plan also requires agreement from Hamas, which would be required to voluntarily disarm, effectively surrendering. Trump warned that should the group reject the deal, he could give Israeli authorities even more of a free hand to continue their military campaign in the war-ravaged territory.

In addition to backing Trump’s Gaza peace plan, the Arab and Muslim foreign ministers also welcomed the president’s pledge to block any attempt by Israel to annex the West Bank as a significant step.

The ministers outlined a series of commitments they believe to be essential for lasting peace, many of which were covered by Trump’s plan: efforts to ensure sufficient humanitarian aid reaches Gaza free from obstruction; the prevention of forced displacement of Palestinians; the release of hostages; establishment of a security mechanism for all parties; and a guarantee of full Israeli withdrawal from the territory.

They added that reconstruction of Gaza, and progress towards a two-state solution to the conflict between Israelis and Palestinians, in which Gaza and the West Bank form part of a fully sovereign Palestinian state, were “the key to achieving regional stability and security.”


Greek diplomat praises ‘excellent momentum’ as Saudi-Greek ties deepen with cultural partnerships

Greek diplomat praises ‘excellent momentum’ as Saudi-Greek ties deepen with cultural partnerships
Updated 30 September 2025

Greek diplomat praises ‘excellent momentum’ as Saudi-Greek ties deepen with cultural partnerships

Greek diplomat praises ‘excellent momentum’ as Saudi-Greek ties deepen with cultural partnerships
  • ‘Sky’s the limit’ for cultural diplomacy, Maira Myrogianni says
  • Official highlights Year of Handicrafts as opportunity for shared projects, international exchange

RIYADH: ֱ and Greece are pursuing new cultural initiatives in education, handicrafts and the culinary arts, building on the success of the High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council, according to a Greek diplomat.

Maira Myrogianni, secretary-general for Greeks abroad and public diplomacy, said: “There is very good momentum between the two countries … the diplomatic relations are at an excellent momentum and also we have a lot of signed agreements in the last years, in cultural, economic and different (fields).”

Speaking at the inaugural Cultural Investment Conference in Riyadh, she said the two countries held their first High-Level Strategic Cooperation Council in January in AlUla, co-chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis.

Greek Ambassador to ֱ Alexis Konstantopoulos, center, receives a parting gift of a portrait created by Arab News’ cartoonist, presented by Editor-in-Chief Faisal J. Abbas, left, in the presence of Greek Secretary-General for Public Diplomacy Maira Myrogianni. (AN photo by Huda Bashatah)

In the field of public diplomacy, particularly culture, “the sky is the limit,” she told Arab News.

“We have ancient cultures, we have modern art. We have also started a task force called Crafting Greece … to promote the crafting,” she said.

She pointed to opportunities for collaboration as ֱ celebrates its Year of Handicrafts, with the Banaan Handicraft Week bringing together countries to showcase their traditions.  

HIGHLIGHT

The Cultural Investment Conference in Riyadh brings together artists, government officials, investors and diplomats for high-level discussions on culture as a driver of strategic investment.

On education, Myrogianni said there had been several meetings with the Saudi Minister of Education Yousef Al-Benyan.

“We have some Greek students studying in universities here and some Saudi students studying in Greece,” she said.

“Its important to explore the possibilities to have a section of teaching the Greek language … we think this is the modern Greek language and this is also a part of culture.” 

Reflecting on her experience at the cultural forum, Myrogianni said she was “thoroughly impressed” and that “it was much better than I could have imagined.”

The secretary-general thanked the crown prince and Ministry of Culture for supporting cultural investment.

“It is a discussion that we need to have,” she said. “The fact that we have a first forum, dedicated at the global level … it’s a very good initiative and a very good intake for ֱ and internationally as well.”

The two-day event, held under the patronage of the crown prince, brings together artists, government officials, investors and diplomats for high-level discussions on culture as a driver of strategic investment.

Myrogianni said that she was “amazed” by the rapid changes she had witnessed in ֱ, recalling her past visitors for the Future Investment Initiative forums.

The growing cultural, educational and economic exchanges between ֱ and Greece reflect a partnership built on shared values and future ambitions. With new initiatives under discussion, both countries are deepening ties and ensuring the current momentum translates into lasting cooperation.

 


KSrelief donates school supplies to children in Yemen

More than 13,500 students across the four governorates are set to benefit from the initiative. (SPA)
More than 13,500 students across the four governorates are set to benefit from the initiative. (SPA)
Updated 29 September 2025

KSrelief donates school supplies to children in Yemen

More than 13,500 students across the four governorates are set to benefit from the initiative. (SPA)
  • This humanitarian support reflects ֱ’s commitment to providing essential resources and enhancing the quality of education in Yemen

LAHJ: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief recently distributed educational supplies to support displaced children and host communities in Yemen.

The donation, centered on the Tuban district of Lahj, comprised school uniforms, bags and hygiene kits for 1,589 students, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

A wider project, covering the Lahj, Abyan, Al-Dhale and Taiz regions, includes equipping schools with blackboards, training more than 600 teachers in active learning methods and raising awareness about the importance of education.

More than 13,500 students across the four governorates are set to benefit from the initiative.

This humanitarian support reflects ֱ’s commitment to providing essential resources and enhancing the quality of education in Yemen.

 


Hail camel auction begins in Al-Qaid

Hail camel auction begins in Al-Qaid
Updated 29 September 2025

Hail camel auction begins in Al-Qaid

Hail camel auction begins in Al-Qaid
  • The auction aims to stimulate both economic and heritage activities in the region and serves as a vital platform for exchanging expertise, forging business deals and strengthening connections among camel owners and breeders

HAIL: The Hail camel auction has begun in Al-Qaid, drawing enthusiasts from across the Kingdom for the 10-day event.

The auction showcases rare and distinctive camel breeds and is considered one of the largest events of its kind in the region owing to the high number of camel owners attending.

The event features a diverse range of heritage, cultural, and social activities designed to engage visitors of all ages.

The auction aims to stimulate both economic and heritage activities in the region and serves as a vital platform for exchanging expertise, forging business deals and strengthening connections among camel owners and breeders.

 


Riyadh mayor concludes official to Japan

The mayor inaugurated the Saudi Vision 2030 Forum in Osaka in the presence of Japanese and international leaders. (SPA)
The mayor inaugurated the Saudi Vision 2030 Forum in Osaka in the presence of Japanese and international leaders. (SPA)
Updated 29 September 2025

Riyadh mayor concludes official to Japan

The mayor inaugurated the Saudi Vision 2030 Forum in Osaka in the presence of Japanese and international leaders. (SPA)
  • His opening address highlighted the history of relations between the two countries and their development over the past seven decades

RIYADH: Mayor of Riyadh Prince Faisal bin Abdulaziz bin Ayyaf and his accompanying delegation recently concluded an official visit to Japan. 

While there, the mayor inaugurated the Saudi Vision 2030 Forum in Osaka in the presence of Japanese and international leaders.

His opening address highlighted the history of relations between the two countries and their development over the past seven decades, culminating in 2017 with the launch of the Saudi-Japan Vision 2030 to strengthen cooperation and partnership.