When it comes to quiet luxury, few emerging brands embody the term as effortlessly as ZAIA. Founded by Zainab Abdulla, the Dubai-based footwear label is rooted in a deep appreciation for craftsmanship, timeless design, and understated elegance. Known for its signature loafers handcrafted in Dubai using the finest Italian leathers, ZAIA has quickly carved a niche for itself among discerning women who value subtle sophistication over seasonal flash.
In this exclusive Q&A, The Luxe Scoop sat down with Zainab Abdulla to explore the inspiration behind ZAIA, her definition of modern luxury, and what’s next for the brand.
TLS: What inspired you to launch ZAIA, and how does it reflect your personal vision of luxury and craftsmanship?
Zainab Abdulla: ZAIA was born from my lifelong passion for fashion, especially footwear. Around the time loafers were trending widely, I noticed a surge in brands creating their own interpretations. That’s when I saw an opportunity to bring my own vision to life. My vision of luxury lies in understated sophistication; pieces that are both effortless and meticulously crafted. With ZAIA, I strive to reflect this philosophy by focusing on exceptional craftsmanship, attention to detail and designs that seamlessly blend timeless style with a distinctive edge.
TLS: ZAIA embodies the concept of “quiet luxury.” How would you define this, and why is it significant in today’s fashion landscape?
Zainab Abdulla: For me, ‘quiet luxury’ is about focusing on craftsmanship and quality, creating pieces that speak for themselves without the need for logos or loud branding. It’s about designing for individuals who value sophistication in a way that feels effortless. When someone sees a ZAIA loafer, they may not instantly recognise the brand, but they’ll appreciate its quality and elegance.
In today’s fashion landscape, I’m glad to see ‘quiet luxury’ gaining more appreciation as people increasingly recognise the beauty in understated design and the significance of investing in timeless, high-quality pieces. It’s a shift toward valuing authenticity and substance over excess, which feels both meaningful and relevant in our current times.
TLS: ZAIA’s shoes are handcrafted in Dubai using the finest Italian leathers. Why was it important for you to combine Emirati craftsmanship with Italian materials?
Zainab Abdulla: It was important for me to combine Emirati craftsmanship with Italian materials to create a unique synergy between quality and artistry. We source only the finest leathers from Italian manufacturers to ensure durability and a premium feel, while our skilled artisans in Dubai bring each design to life with meticulous attention to detail. This process ensures that every ZAIA shoe reflects the highest quality, individuality and style.
TLS: The Classic Loafer is a standout piece in ZAIA’s collection. Can you share the story behind this design and what makes it special?
Zainab Abdulla: The Classic Loafer is a cornerstone of ZAIA’s collection, embodying our vision of timeless design with a distinctive twist. While many brands offer their interpretations of the classic loafer, what sets ours apart is the signature ZAIA knot design, crafted in lizard leather. This unique detail adds a luxurious and refined touch, elevating the piece to a new level of sophistication. The ZAIA knot has become synonymous with our brand, giving the loafers a unique identity. It’s this blend of timeless elegance and distinctive craftsmanship that makes the Classic Loafer truly special.
TLS: How do you ensure your designs are as functional as they are elegant?
Zainab Abdulla: At ZAIA, we believe that true luxury lies in the perfect balance of elegance and functionality. To achieve this, we prioritize meticulous craftsmanship and thoughtful design. Each shoe is created with premium materials, ensuring durability and comfort, while every detail—down to the stitching and fit—is carefully considered. Our goal is to design pieces that not only look refined but also seamlessly integrate into everyday life, offering versatility and ease without compromising on style.
TLS: You’ve mentioned wanting to create designs that transcend fleeting trends. How do you approach designing pieces with timeless appeal?
Zainab Abdulla: We focus on balancing simplicity and luxury to craft pieces that stand the test of time, like our Classic Loafer. These are the pieces that remain when trends fade, growing more appreciated with each season. With everything we design, our goal is for customers to feel they’re investing in something meaningful—a wardrobe staple that quietly elevates their style year after year.
TLS: Who do you envision wearing ZAIA, and what do they represent to you?
Zainab Abdulla: I envision ZAIA being worn by women who value understated sophistication and timeless elegance. They represent confidence, authenticity and an appreciation for quality and craftsmanship over fleeting trends.
TLS: How has Dubai’s vibrant design scene and culture influenced ZAIA’s identity and aesthetic?
Zainab Abdulla: Dubai’s vibrant design scene and culture have deeply influenced ZAIA’s identity, blending modern sophistication with a respect for tradition. The city’s appreciation for understated elegance and its forward-thinking creativity inspire our designs, resulting in pieces that are classic yet uniquely reflective of Dubai’s dynamic spirit.
TLS: What can we expect from ZAIA in the coming years? Are there plans to expand beyond footwear or introduce new collections?
Zainab Abdulla: ZAIA’s journey is just beginning, and we’re excited about what lies ahead. While our focus remains on footwear, we’re always exploring new ideas and possibilities. You can expect us to continue innovating and evolving, staying true to our commitment to quality, craftsmanship and elegance.
TLS: What do you hope people feel when they wear ZAIA, and what message do you want your brand to convey to its audience?
Zainab Abdulla: When people wear ZAIA, I hope they feel confident, sophisticated, and effortlessly elegant. I want the brand to convey a message of timeless refinement, authenticity, and an appreciation for quality and craftsmanship that transcends trends.
