On 25 November, we gathered in Riyadh with an extraordinary mix of minds, entrepreneurs, policymakers, investors, academia, and industry leaders, all united by one mission: to accelerate the shift towards a more sustainable and circular textile system. Saudi Fabric of the Future was more than an event; it felt like a milestone moment for a sector ready to move.

A Collaboration Built on Shared Ambition

This year’s first edition was made possible thanks to an exceptional partnership ecosystem. We were proud to work alongside the Saudi Fashion Commission, MISK City, Entrepreneurs Community by Misk, IE University, Proaltus Capital Partners, and HUGO BOSS, who supported the vision from day one.

A particularly meaningful moment was announcing our official partnership with the Saudi Fashion Commission, marking an important step in our continued collaboration to support the development of a circular materials ecosystem in the Kingdom. Their trust and collaboration played a central role in shaping the event and the momentum surrounding it.

A Programme Designed for Real Exchange

The afternoon opened with high-energy discussions on the future of sustainable materials, investment opportunities in climate-tech, and the practical steps required to scale innovation across the textile value chain. Panels brought together leaders from government, retail, academia, andfinance, sparking conversations that were honest, ambitious, and refreshingly solution-oriented.

As Michael Kleindl summarised in his closing reflections:

“Circularity in the textile system will happen — there is no alternative. And Saudi Arabia is uniquely positioned to build a global hub for sustainable textile innovation.”

You could genuinely feel that optimism in the room.

Spotlight on the Startups Shaping the Future

A core highlight of the day was our startup pitch competition, featuring six companies working at the forefront of materials science, recycling technologies, and circular design.

The finalists included:

• Darah Solutions Lab
• Texula
• Sci-Lume Labs
• Faircraft
• LeLabPlus
• Mood of Thought

Each team delivered a six-minute pitch followed by jury questions, showcasing a diverse set of technologies, from bio-based materials to advanced textile recycling and digital solutions for more efficient value chains.

Awards were presented in three categories, recognising excellence in sustainability, scalability, and pitch delivery. The jury’s deliberation reflected the strength of the cohort, a sign of how quickly innovation in this space is accelerating.

A Community That Keeps Growing

Beyond the formal programme, one of the most memorable aspects ofthe event was the spirit of openness and connection. Startups engaged with investors, industry leaders exchanged ideas with emerging innovators, and government representatives explored practical ways to integrate new solutions intonational strategies.

Riyadh welcomed us with warmth and energy, and we left feeling that something important is taking shape: a real ecosystem emerging at the intersection of fashion, technology, and sustainability, and one that Saudi Arabia is uniquely positioned to lead.

Looking Ahead

Saudi Fabric of the Future is just the beginning. With the new partnership alongside the Saudi Fashion Commission, expanded collaborations across the region, and a growing community of innovators, 2026 promises to bring even more momentum.

We are deeply grateful to all partners, speakers, jury members, and startups who contributed to making this event what it was. And to the broader community following our journey, thank you. The work ahead is big, but together, it feels not just possible, but inevitable.