Ahmed Abdelrahman Almaazmi

Ahmed Abdelrahman Almaazmi is a Ph.D. student in Global Studies at Global Studies University (Fall 2025), specializing in Cultural, Visual, and Literary Studies, from the United Arab Emirates. He leads the Sharjah Fashion Lab, where he directs programs integrating creative practice, pedagogy, and research within a decolonial framework. His research examines African-Arab encounters, including migration, Hajj, and trans-Mediterranean exchange, as expressed through clothing, performance, and archival materials. Ahmed aims to develop a decolonial framework for fashion as informed practice while creating initiatives that empower emerging designers in the region. Previously, he founded and served as Creative Director of Thamanyah, a luxury menswear brand recognized in Forbes US 30 Under 30, with designs featured internationally and acquired by LACMA. His doctoral studies provide a platform to connect scholarly inquiry with professional and creative work.

Academic Background

• M.A., Luxury Brands Management, l’École Supérieure des Sciences Économiques et Commerciales (L'ESSEC-Paris)
• BA, American University of Sharjah 

Professional Experience

• Chief Advisor, Sharjah Fashion Lab, UAE (2023–Present)
• Leading the establishment of the first regional fashion prototyping laboratory
• Designing programs integrating practice, pedagogy, and research within a decolonial framework
• Collaborating with global advisors and institutions to align prototyping with international standards
  
• Founder and Creative Director, Thamanyah, France/UAE (2010–2019)
  • Established a luxury menswear brand redefining Gulf sartorial traditions through a global lens
  • Recognized in Forbes US 30 Under 30 (2014) for achievements in fashion and entrepreneurship
  • Achieved international distribution in Selfridges (London), Isetan (Tokyo), Maxfield (Los Angeles), and SSENSE (Canada)
  • Thamanyah Kandora acquired by the Los Angeles County Museum (LACMA)
  • Featured in exhibitions at Haus der Kunst (Munich), Louvre Paris, Les Arts Décoratifs, and other international institutions

In Their Own Words

"My experience with the program has been deeply rewarding. The faculty and staff provide exceptional support, creating an environment where academic rigor is complemented by meaningful mentorship. The program supports professionals in integrating research directly into practice. Its structure promotes a balance between scholarly inquiry and professional commitments, enabling participants to apply knowledge directly to their fields. This approach fosters intellectual growth and advances professional development."