7 Iconic Met Gala Moments By Middle Eastern Designers

Every first Monday in May, the Met Gala transforms New York’s Metropolitan Museum of Art into the ultimate stage for fashion’s most daring and decadent looks.

As we gear up for the 2026 edition, set to celebrate fashion as art through the theme excellence through the theme which is quite literally “Fashion Is Art”, while the exhibition this year is entitled “Costume Art”.

Amid the spectacle of the Met Gala every year, Middle Eastern designers have repeatedly stolen the spotlight, bringing opulence, craftsmanship, and cultural richness to the fore. From sculptural silhouettes to intricate embroidery, these unforgettable creations have not only turned heads but also redefined global couture standards.

At the 2010 Met Gala, themed “American Woman: Fashioning a National Identity,” Jennifer Lopez captivated everyone in a subtle grey and silver gown by Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad. The dress featured delicate beading and intricate embellishments, exuding old Hollywood glamour. This moment marked the beginning of her long-lasting relationship with Arab designers, earning widespread praise from both fashion critics and fans alike. It remains a standout in her red carpet evolution.

At just 19, Rihanna made her Met Gala debut in a white, crystal-embellished gown by Lebanese designer Georges Chakra for the “Poiret: King of Fashion” theme. Complete with Cartier diamonds, mesh gloves, and a single red rose, the look marked the beginning of her Met Gala reign.

For the 2022 Met Gala, supermodel and Victoria’s Secret angel Jasmine Tookes stunned in a draped emerald green gown by Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad, perfectly matching the “Gilded Glamour” theme. The luxurious dress, paired with lace sequin gloves and a striking choker with emerald details, epitomised sophistication and glamour. Known for his bold, artistic flair, Murad once again dazzled at the Gala, cementing Tookes’ place as one of the evening’s standout stars.

Argentinian actor-model Camila Morrone turned heads at the 2019 Met Gala in a blush pink, asymmetrical gown by Elie Saab for the theme “Camp: Notes on Fashion”. The strapless design, with its short front and dramatic train, was paired with matching gloves, silver bangles, and a fishnet veil fascinator. With Saab’s signature timeless elegance, Morrone delivered one of the most memorable looks of the night.

Hilary Duff made a graceful Met Gala debut in 2008, embracing the “Superheroes: Fashion and Fantasy” theme in a strapless, silver Elie Saab gown. With delicate embellishments and the designer’s signature beading, the look exuded a fairytale charm. She accessorised with a shimmering silver clutch and minimal silver jewellery—delicate drop earrings and a slim bracelet—that subtly complemented the gown’s intricate detailing.

Sports Illustrated model Hannah Davis dazzled at the 2016 Met Gala in a mint green Zuhair Murad haute couture gown from the designer’s Spring 2016 collection. Adorned with floral embellishments and 3D detailing, the ethereal look perfectly captured the “Manus x Machina: Fashion in an Age of Technology” theme, blending futuristic innovation with handcrafted artistry.

Katharine McPhee stunned at the 2018 Met Gala in a dreamy pale blue Georges Chakra Couture gown from the Spring/Summer 2017 collection. With its ethereal sheer panels and gold detailing, the gown beautifully embodied the theme “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination.” McPhee complemented the delicate silhouette with bold gold jewellery, including a statement cross necklace, perfectly balancing modern glamour with timeless elegance.