They say beauty is only skin deep. But a good makeup artist can make it look a lot deeper, and even tell a story for brands.
The global beauty industry is fiercely competitive, with countless new products, brands, and makeup artists emerging daily. In this crowded landscape, what truly sets a makeup artist apart?
These Arab makeup artists are rising stars in the fashion and editorial world, making their mark on the global beauty scene. They’ve worked at Paris Fashion Week, sculpted the faces of international celebrities like Emma Chamberlain and Bella Hadid, and served as the go-to artists for luxury brands such as Dior and Chanel. With their wealth of experience, signature styles, and track record across local and international platforms, here are a few of the makeup artists you should have on your radar…
Diana Harby | Egypt
Based in Cairo, Diana Harby is a go-to artist for homegrown editorial shoots. Having built her portfolio with regional brands like Harvey Nichols Kuwait and Egyptian labels such as Maram, Shahira Lasheen, Anippe, and Ohanna, she’s renowned for her masterful technique and ability to elevate fashion pieces through makeup.
Yasmin Istanbouli | Palestine/Korea/Saudi Arabia/USA
Residing in Los Angeles, the Saudi-raised, Palestinian-Korean Yasmin Istanbouli is an avant-garde artist making waves internationally. Her edgy and bold style has graced the faces of celebrities like Charli XCX, Imaan Hammam, Gabbriette, and Addison Rae, while brands such as Swarovski and Marc Jacobs have collaborated with her on projects.
Naïma Bremer | Paris/MENA
A Parisian-MENA based powerhouse, Naïma Bremer began her beauty journey by working with family and friends before transitioning to editorial makeup. As Fenty Beauty’s Global Artistry Ambassador, her creativity has transformed key looks for brands like Casablanca and Botter Paris at Paris Fashion Week, alongside collaborations with Amina Muaddi, Zara Larsson, Lori Harvey, and Saweetie.
Nadia Tayeh | Palestine/USA
This NYC-based talent has developed a strong bond with supermodel Bella Hadid, working with her for Fashion Weeks, red carpets, and other high-profile events. Originally from Palestine, Nadia Tayeh has collaborated with renowned designers like Michael Kors, Oscar de la Renta, and Carolina Herrera. She’s also worked with stars such as Emma Chamberlain, Imaan Hammam, and Candice Swanepoel.
Michel Kiwarkis | Lebanon/UAE
A Dubai-based artist with Lebanese heritage, Michel Kiwarkis enhances natural beauty without exaggeration. His impressive client list includes Nadine Nassib Njeim, Irina Shayk, and luxury brands like Bottega Veneta, Gucci, Dior, Swarovski, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, and YSL.
Mabs Khakwani | France/UAE
Residing in Dubai, Mabs Khakwani views makeup as an artistic expression, using colors and textures to bring her visions to life. With experience at prestigious brands like Boucheron, Bulgari, Messika, Dior, and Chanel, she demonstrates her ability to cater to diverse clients in the ever-evolving beauty industry.
Agnieszka Hoscilo | Egypt/UAE
A freelance makeup artist and hairstylist based in Cairo, Agnieszka Hoscilo thrives on versatility and experimentation. Her work spans fashion, editorial, and commercial projects, with collaborations for brands such as Puma, Kotn, ZO Skin, Massimo Dutti, Emporio Armani, Okhtein, and Azza Fahmy.
Farah Ammar | Egypt
An up-and-coming, self-taught makeup artist based in Cairo, Farah Ammar blends her passion for applied arts with makeup. She specialises in editorial, glam, and special effects makeup, creating looks for Egyptian design houses such as Maison Saedi and RTW label Double A, as well as singer Lella Fadda and TFP Models.
Aida Glow | UAE/Qatar/Saudi Arabia
With seven years of experience and training from Sephora Beauty Master, Aida Glow has made her mark across commercial shoots, fashion shows, and celebrity makeup. Her collaborations include brands such as Dior, Peet Dullaert, Bloomingdales, and Net-A-Porter.
Sharon Drugan | UAE
Sharon Drugan has worked with A-list celebrities like Tyra Banks, Lindsay Lohan, Sharon Stone, and Ellie Goulding. Based in the UAE, she’s known for her versatility, working on editorial, fashion, and commercial projects with brands like Boss, Miu Miu, Saint Laurent, Skims, and more.
Manuel Losada | Spain/MENA
A Spaniard now residing in Dubai, Manuel Losada is a celebrity favourite known for his personable approach and adaptability. His clients include Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Bulgari, while stars such as Lily Allen, Helena Christensen, Paris Hilton, and Eva Longoria trust him with their looks. Losada has also participated in Milan and Paris Fashion Weeks, and the first Dolce & Gabbana Haute Couture Show in AlUla, Saudi Arabia.
