5 websites that put Arab designers on the international map

Arab designers got talent, and now it’s time for the whole world to know.

A few entrepreneurs have taken it upon themselves to bring to light Arab contemporary designs, and, more importantly to enable people from all around the world to buy curated art, clothing, furniture, and accessories from independent Arab designers.

Here are five websites you shouldn’t miss.

MySouk is a simple but slick website selling Lebanese clothing, jewelry, art, furniture, accessories, and decorations. Orders have doubled since its launch in the summer of 2013, says cofounder Ghassan Mabsout. Even though their marketing efforts were solely aimed at Lebanon, 45% of the orders are from the rest of the MENA region, and 15% outside the region, mainly in the U.S., Canada, France, UK, Spain, and Singapore. International clients seem to be mostly Lebanese expats.

The company plans to expand its marketing efforts to the MENA region when the time is right.

Kahenas is a website with a small but finely curated selection of affordable art, fashion, and home decor. The founders reached out on social media in March 2013 and launched an e-shop six months later. They started shipping worldwide in September 2014.

They currently feature 25 Moroccan artists & brands, and add three new brands every month. In the long run, they hope to welcome brands and artists from across the MENA region and Africa.

Original article by Aline Mayard

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5 websites that put Arab designers on the international map