This December, Dubai’s vibrant art and culture district, Alserkal Avenue, welcomes a new luminary in sustainable luxury called Orient 499.
This celebrated Lebanese brand, steeped in the rich heritage of the Middle East, promises to bring a curated blend of fashion and homeware that honours traditional craftsmanship while embracing contemporary aesthetics.
Founded in 2006 by the dynamic duo of Aida Kawas and Frank Luca, Orient 499 has become a beacon of Levantine craftsmanship.
The brand seamlessly merges the authenticity of traditional techniques with the sophistication of modern design, showcasing one-of-a-kind creations that embody both cultural legacy and innovative luxury. With its arrival in Dubai, Orient 499 is set to enchant a discerning clientele seeking unique, meaningful pieces imbued with artistry and purpose.
At the heart of Orient 499 is a profound commitment to preserving the artisanal traditions of the Levant. Aida Kawas, a celebrated Lebanese designer with over three decades of experience, draws inspiration from her homeland’s cultural richness.
Her designs tell stories of heritage and humanity, reflecting an intimate connection to the artisans she collaborates with. Frank Luca, hailing from Belgium, brings a cosmopolitan sensibility and a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, shaped by his upbringing among rare and beautiful objects curated by his antique-dealer parents.
Together, Aida and Frank have created a brand that bridges cultures, offering a fusion of timeless artistry and elevated design.
Orient 499’s ethos centres on ethical, handmade luxury. Each piece—from flowing silk abayas and hand-embroidered jackets to hand-carved mother-of-pearl decor and hammered copper tableware—is crafted with care by skilled artisans in Lebanon. These works celebrate the enduring beauty of slow fashion and slow design, where the story of each object is as significant as its aesthetic.
For nearly two decades, Orient 499 has worked alongside Lebanon’s artisans, including coppersmiths, glassblowers, soap makers, embroiderers, and couturiers. Through these collaborations, the brand not only sustains traditional skills but also uplifts local communities, ensuring these time-honoured crafts are passed on to future generations. In an era of mass production, Orient 499’s pieces stand as a testament to the value of human touch and individuality.
Every item in Orient 499’s collection reflects a dedication to excellence and authenticity. Luxurious materials sourced globally, from Italian Loro Piana cashmere to handcrafted Indian and Levantine textiles, are transformed in the brand’s Lebanese atelier into creations that radiate elegance. Each garment and accessory is meticulously crafted, ensuring that no two pieces are ever identical—a hallmark of the brand’s commitment to exclusivity.
With showrooms in Beirut and now Dubai, alongside a global online presence, Orient 499 invites connoisseurs from around the world to experience the artistry of Lebanese craftsmanship. The Alserkal Avenue boutique will offer a thoughtfully curated selection of womenswear, menswear, and homeware, blending heritage with a modern aesthetic.
Dubai’s launch of Orient 499 is more than an unveiling of a new store; it’s a celebration of beauty, authenticity, and sustainable luxury. In bringing the timeless artistry of the Levant to the UAE, Orient 499 offers a unique opportunity for customers to connect with a brand that honours the past while looking boldly to the future.
Visit Orient 499 at Alserkal Avenue this December and discover the intricate stories woven into every thread, carved into every detail, and imbued in every piece. This is not just fashion or design; this is heritage reimagined for the modern world.
