Bollywood star Kriti Sanon turned showstopper for designer Manish Malhotra at Dubai Fashion Week 2026, marking her international runway debut. Dressed in a pearl-drenched ivory ensemble from Malhotra’s Inaya Collection, she closed the grand finale with elegance and glamour, showcasing Indian couture on a global stage.
Dubai Fashion Week 2026 witnessed a dazzling finale as Bollywood actor Kriti Sanon made her international runway debut, turning muse for celebrated designer Manish Malhotra. The couturier presented his latest collection, The India Story: Inaya 2026, which celebrated Indian craftsmanship with a blend of traditional artistry and modern couture drama.
Kriti Sanon stole the spotlight in a two-piece ivory ensemble featuring a pearl and diamond-embellished bustier paired with a skirt adorned with delicate strands of pearls. Styled with a sheer dupatta embellished with pearl tassels, her look epitomized glamour and grace. Walking to the retro track Ramba Ho Ho Ho, Kriti’s showstopper moment added a playful yet powerful vibe to the finale.
Manish Malhotra, who had also closed the 2025 edition of Dubai Fashion Week, returned this year with a collection that highlighted sequins, brocade, and intricate embellishments, positioning Indian couture prominently on the global runway. The showcase reinforced his reputation as Asia’s leading designer, while Kriti’s debut added star power and international appeal.
Key highlights from the announcement include
-
Kriti Sanon made her international runway debut at Dubai Fashion Week 2026
-
She turned showstopper for Manish Malhotra’s The India Story: Inaya Collection
-
Her pearl-drenched ivory ensemble featured diamond embellishments and a sheer dupatta
-
Walked to the retro track Ramba Ho Ho Ho, adding a vintage Bollywood vibe
-
Manish Malhotra closed the fashion week with a couture showcase celebrating Indian crafts
Industry experts emphasize that Kriti Sanon’s debut marks a significant moment for Indian fashion, as Bollywood glamour meets global couture. The collaboration showcased India’s rich design heritage while reinforcing Dubai Fashion Week’s role as a global platform for cultural exchange.
Sources: Economic Times, News18, Times of India