Our interview with Simon J. Lo Gatto

The CEO Middle East Fashion Week and Middle East Fashion Council

What is the focus of the Middle East Fashion Council and the biannual Middle East Fashion Week?

Our platform offers international brands a chance to showcase in the Middle East and provide Middle Eastern brands the opportunity to showcase themselves to the international market. In partnership with The Sustainable City, the Middle East Fashion Council is striving to reshape the conversation and create long-term change for the Middle East’s fashion industry.

Sustainability is a landmark for you, isn’t it true?

Middle East Fashion Council is the world’s first fashion council with sustainability as the core value. Sustainability will be the key driver in determining the market value of luxury brands in the next years.

Which drivers have brought success to the Middle East Fashion Week March 2022 edition?

The integrity of our business model, our values, and our strong vision behind creating a legit platform for fashion in the Middle East are the pillars of our success. The work of our designers and support of our sponsors in the March 2022 edition of MEFW was just one aspect that drove our success along. Behind our vision, we have a long-term goal, and we work hard ensuring that our partners are happy to return to us time and again.

What are the dates of the next edition?

The next Middle East Fashion Week will take place in October 2022 and will feature a full week of shows and events.

You are also well-known as a great polo player. What is the highlight event in Dubai for this wonderful sport?

Polo in Dubai is supported by many clubs and continues to grow from strength to strength. The season begins in November and ends in April. The highlights of the high goal season are the Silver Cup and the Gold Cup, both played at Al Habtoor Polo Resort. The polo and the social aspect of the club make these two tournaments the must-attends of the season.

What is the best time to enjoy Dubai?

In my opinion, Dubai is one of the best cities in the world. It has the sea, the desert, and then the mountains are just a short drive away. There are a lot of things to do in addition to its gorgeous natural surroundings, like amazing entertainment, restaurants, parks, and sporting events. I think Dubai is the best place to be in during the winter.