As someone who writes about jewellery a lot, I am always on the lookout for pieces that bring something fresh to the table. This time, I am diving into the MENA region, where independent brands are mixing bold ideas, cultural storytelling, and top-tier craftsmanship to create seriously stunning designs. Here are some of the ones to know.
Ailes
Founded in Dubai in 2021 by Hind and Fatma Ismail Janahi, Ailes Jewellery offers a contemporary, playful take on luxury. Specialising in fun yet sophisticated pieces, the brand works with 18k gold, diamonds, and precious stones to create statement designs that shine solo or stack effortlessly for a vibrant, layered look.
Think colourful silhouettes inspired by Arabic and Latin alphabets, diamond snakes coiling around the wrist, tennis-themed necklaces, and even precious charms to deck out your bag — we want it all!
Lillian Ismail
Deeply influenced by its founder’s background in art jewellery, Jeddah-based label Lillian Ismail seamlessly blends storytelling with craftsmanship. The designer draws inspiration from Arabic history, transforming cultural heritage into precious ornaments that sparks remembrance and awareness.
Take the Jadela collection, for example — an artistic nod to the traditional hair braids worn by Arabic women to strengthen and protect their hair. The Falak line, meanwhile, is inspired by Islamic scientific manuscripts, echoing the work of Muslim astronomers, philosophers, and scholars over centuries. And 1441 H. pays homage to the architectural details of Jeddah’s historic Al-Balad district.
Ghada Albuainain
Qatari designer Ghada Albuainain clearly believes there’s no such thing as too many diamonds — and honestly, who could argue? Her eponymous brand delivers minimalist yet edgy fine jewellery, defined by unconventional lines, bold shapes, and unapologetic sparkle. It is the kind of ultimate simplicity that still turns heads.
Aisha Baker
Launched in 2017 in Dubai, Aisha Baker brings childhood fairytales to life — think enchanted forests, mysterious castles, and bewitching folklore, all reimagined with a touch of modern escapism.
Each piece is a reinvention of classic fairytales, designed for the 21st-century woman. With distinctive materials and joyful designs, collections are produced in limited quantities — making every piece all the more unique.
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