Swarovski, the global leader in cut crystal and fashion jewellery, is celebrating one of the most treasured cultures in the world with an exclusive “Neo-Arabia” photoshoot that will feature in this month's edition of Swarovski Online Magazine.

Amid the splendor of the Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in Abu Dhabi, key fashion influencers from the Middle East modeled ravishing garments, jewellery and accessories that juxtapose the traditional with the modern, said a statement from the top jeweller.

Photographed against a timeless Arabian backdrop, eight local social media personalities - Deema Alasadi, Zahra Lyla, Mariyah Gaspacho, Fatma Husam, Salima Feerasta, Nicoleta Buru, Zarah Amira and Soraya Pena - modeled pieces from regional and international designers that merged historical Middle Eastern references with 21st-century modernity.

The location was the hauntingly beautiful dreamscape of the palatial Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara, set amid the rolling sand dunes of Abu Dhabi’s Rub’ Al Khali (the Empty Quarter).

Here, a selection of stunning ensembles showcased Swarovski’s founding philosophy of collaborating with designers across the world: Sparkling day looks, elegant special-occasion outfits, traditional wear, kaftans, and stunning shoes, accessories and jewellery all shimmered under the desert sky.

“Having celebrated our 120th anniversary last year, for 2016 we are continuing to focus on the importance of the Middle East and South Asia as both a creative and a fashion hub,” remarked Andrew Mojica, the managing director of Swarovski Middle East.

"The region is widely recognized for bringing together the traditional and modern, and Swarovski is using this marriage of old and new to demonstrate its collaboration with some of the most talented designers and influencers here and internationally," he added.

The pieces were created by a galaxy of top regional designers that included Aavva, Khaadi, Maria. B, Vinita Michael, Balu Joias and Madiso; international fashion houses were represented by Jean Paul Gaultier, Etienne Aigner and Adelina Rusu; and Rupert Sanderson, whose spectacular shoes are frequently seen on the Royals, provided footwear.

Vintage pieces also featured, including Louboutin boots encrusted with Swarovski crystals in which Beyoncé once dazzled her audiences, said the company.

Swarovski has maintained a presence in the Middle East since the 1970s, opening its regional office in Dubai, UAE, in 1997.

The crystal maison has firmly established itself in the world of fashion, art and design through its collaborations with regional designers, distributors, architects and artists who use its crystals in their remarkable work throughout the Middle East and South Asia.-TradeArabia News Service