Mubasher: Saudi Arabia will host its first ever Arab Fashion Week in March 2018, Arabian Business said, according to a statement by the Arab Fashion Council.

The Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has been leading a path to reform the kingdom's dependence on oil, with expansion plans in the private sector in addition to empowering women.

Riyadh will welcome the country’s first fashion week during the period from 26 to 31 March, with a second edition already scheduled for October, AFP reported, citing the Dubai-based Arab Fashion Council.

“Arab Fashion Week will take place at Riyadh's eco-friendly Apex Centre, a white honeycomb-like venue designed by the late celebrated Iraqi-British architect Zaha Hadid,” the news agency added.

In December, the Arab Fashion Council said it would launch a regional office in Riyadh and named Saudi Princess Noura Bint Faisal Al Saud as its honorary president.

"The first Arab Fashion Week in Riyadh will be more than a world-class event,” Princess Noura stated.

The twice-yearly Arab Fashion Week is considered an international fashion week alongside Paris and Milan.

The line-up for the first fashion week in Saudi Arabia has not been yet disclosed and it remains unclear whether it will be limited to modest designs in accordance with the strict dress code observed in Saudi Arabia.

It is worth noting that Prince Mohammed has developed over the past months a series of reforms in favour of women, as in January, Saudi women were allowed for the first time ever to enter a football stadium to watch a game.

The kingdom has also announced an end to banning women from driving, which is to take effect in June.

“Dubai will continue to host its own parallel Arab Fashion Week, with the sixth edition slotted for 9 May to 12 May,” AFP concluded.