19-07-2025
An Omani make-up artist's journey from Oman to international runways
In the shimmering limelight of international fashion weeks, Khadija Ibrahim Al-Naimi's name has become synonymous with elegance, precision, and perseverance. Her journey from a small-town girl in North Al Batinah to a celebrated makeup artist featured at London and Paris Fashion Weeks exemplifies the extraordinary ability of passion, resilience, and talent to transcend borders and stereotypes.
Breaking into the world of professional makeup artistry is rarely a straightforward path. Globally, aspiring makeup artists often face numerous obstacles—a saturated market, the need for a foundational skill set, establishing a unique signature style, and navigating the unpredictable landscape of fashion and beauty. In Oman, where the beauty industry is still evolving, these hurdles are even more pronounced. Khadija's story resonates with many who have had to overcome societal expectations, limited resources, and the struggle for recognition.
'Starting out was tough,' Khadija recalls. 'There weren't many recognised makeup artists in Oman, and breaking into the international scene seemed impossible at first. It took years of dedication, continuous learning, and resilience.' Her journey underscores a universal truth: success in this field demands more than talent—it requires relentless perseverance and a willingness to continually adapt.
Establishing a Foundation: Formal Training and Continuous Development
One of the common requirements for success, both locally and globally, is formal education complemented by ongoing professional development. According to industry standards outlined by recognised organisations like the International Make-Up Association (IMA) and professional development platforms such as MasterClass and Coursera, a successful makeup artist must master a comprehensive skill set that includes colour theory, anatomy, skin care, and specialised techniques for different face shapes and skin types.
Khadija's commitment to excellence saw her seeking professional training across Lebanon, Bahrain, and other countries, learning advanced techniques that most aspiring artists only dream of mastering. Such international exposure not only honed her technical skills but also broadened her stylistic horizons, enabling her to adapt to various cultural aesthetics and client needs.
In the high-stakes environment of Fashion Week, a makeup artist's skill set is scrutinised more intensely than ever. During these global events, artists must deliver flawless looks at lightning speed, often under extreme pressure and with models and clients from diverse backgrounds. The requirements are exacting: impeccable skin finishing, innovative styles that complement runway concepts, and the ability to evolve swiftly as trends change.
Fashion Week is a career-defining platform—an opportunity to showcase technical mastery and creativity to industry leaders, designers, and potential clients worldwide. For Khadija, her successful participation in London Fashion Week four times and her recent appearance at Paris Fashion Week not only validated her skills but also positioned her as an international talent.
From Local Salons to Global Recognition
Khadija's endeavours reflect this commitment. Starting from humble beginnings in her family's home, she transformed her hobby into a full-fledged career through persistent learning and refining her craft. Her decision to pursue specialised training internationally allowed her to develop a signature style defined by elegance, meticulousness, and versatility—attributes highly prized in the fashion industry.
Today, her brand, Dar Al Khaleej, boasts multiple salons and a thriving bridal boutique, Dar Al Khaleej Royal. Her work has earned her awards for Best Beauty Salon in North Al Batinah and Best Makeup Artist in Oman. Despite her accomplishments, Khadija remains grounded, continually seeking new opportunities to expand her expertise and influence.
her excellence as the Best Makeup Artist in Oman and for her salon's outstanding services, exemplify how industry acknowledgement can propel careers further. Such accolades reinforce her reputation both locally and regionally, creating opportunities for collaborations with renowned designers and international ventures.
For Khadija, her repeated appearances at London Fashion Week and her recent debut at Paris Fashion Week exemplify her rising global stature. She exemplifies the emerging new breed of African and Middle Eastern makeup artists making their mark worldwide. Her journey from humble beginnings to participating in the world's most prestigious fashion events highlights the importance of skill, resilience, and industry recognition.
