Saudi-French Supermodel Amira Al Zuhair on Shattering Stereotypes, Real-Life Heroes, and Her Plans to Broaden Her Horizons

With a first-class degree in Philosophy, Politics and Economics, the 23-year-old rising star is not your average supermodel. Who better then, to showcase Bulgari’s equally extraordinary gems?

One statement personifies the dichotomy that is Amira Al Zuhair.

When pressed on who she admires, our Harper’s cover star replies, “In the fashion industry, I look up to figures like Naomi Campbell, who has left a mark on the runway with her career and continues to do so.” Amira continues without a pause, “Outside of fashion I am inspired by Malala Yousafzai, who has fearlessly advocated for women’s rights and their access to education.”

Beauty – that’s undeniable – and brains too. It’s a formidable combination. And her answer encapsulates both aspects of this Saudi rising star whose status was confirmed when she walked at Chanel’s recent Cruise show in Marseille. The 23-year-old, who has already worked with names like Alaïa, Brunello Cucinelli and Prada, enthuses that taking to the catwalk at the MAMO, Centre d’art de la Cité radieuse was a career highlight.

Defying Stereotypes

Amira’s drive is evident, and at the moment it is firmly being utilised to push boundaries in her profession; “I truly value my modelling career and enjoy every aspect of it. Right now, I’m focused on taking it as far as possible and fully embracing all the experiences it brings,” she tells us, musing over whether or not it will be her forever vocation.

She silences naysayers, stating, “I am deeply passionate about modelling and consider myself fortunate to do what I love, making every day feel less like work and more like a privilege. I cherish every moment, from each shoot to every new experience, and look forward to the new opportunities that the future may bring.”

Ever the intellectual, she tempers her enthusiasm with a caveat; “However, I believe that setting fixed plans for something as distant as 10 years from now can be limiting. Life is unpredictable, and I prefer to stay open to opportunities that may present themselves, taking things as they come.”

In the meantime, she is determined to take advantage of the opportunity to travel the world, exploring new cultures. “What I enjoy most about modelling is the creativity and collaboration involved in bringing a vision to life. Working with talented designers, photographers, and stylists is incredibly inspiring. The constant travel can be exhausting, but it’s amazing to have opportunities to visit such beautiful places.”

But she’s also the first to acknowledge that others can often leap to conclusions given she’s pursuing a career in front of the camera. “The fact that I hold a degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics is not incompatible with my career as a model, despite the stereotypes. I pursued my degree while modelling and found that balancing both was challenging, but incredibly rewarding and important to me. I firmly believe in the importance of pursuing education in any form available to you, as it broadens your perspective and enhances your ability to understand the world around you.” She graduated with First Class Honours from prestigious King’s College London two years ago, and that isn’t a surprise; you get the feeling Amira excels at everything she turns her hand to.

Respecting Her Roots

As Amira is conquering the international scene, closer to home, her native Saudi is pushing fashion boundaries too, with Red Sea Fashion Week highlighting the nation’s resortwear collections just before our cover drops. When pressed about the flourishing design industry in the Middle East, and especially in the Kingdom where her father is from, Amira is unequivocal with praise. She is impressed with how it’s managing to blend Eastern and Western sensibilities, and offering an international platform for talent from the region. “The fashion scene in Saudi Arabia is rapidly evolving with a beautiful blend of traditional and modern influences. I am excited about the innovation and creativity developing within the local industry, and that it is being shared more globally.”

And although Amira is now based in the French capital, she is no stranger to visiting these shores. “I love visiting the Middle East when I have the occasion to go either for work or to spend time with family members based there.”

A Public Persona

Having amassed a considerable social media following, Amira gives her fans a glimpse into both her professional and personal life. Having grown up herself in the limelight – she was discovered by an Elite modelling scout sitting in a Parisian café with her French mother when she was just 15-years-old – she smiles when asked if she likes engaging with those who look up to her. “Their support is invaluable and extremely rewarding to me. It is a pleasure to connect and to share my journey.” She also shirks off any down-sides of being looked up to by the next generation; “I am truly honoured and humbled to know that I am considered a role model for young women. I hope to inspire them to pursue their dreams fearlessly as I truly believe that, with determination and grace, anything is possible.”

What about faceless keyboard warriors who aren’t always flattering? She is sanguine, “Surround yourself with people who genuinely want the best for you. Love and support can lead to amazing things.” Her sprawling family – she has eight brothers and sisters – ensure that support system is always tightly knit around her.

Looking ahead, this savvy young lady can take a page out of fellow supermodels’ playbooks, securing a high profile persona that could lead to a multitude of opportunities in the future. Following in the footsteps of regional names like the Hadid sisters doesn’t seem a stretch. “Currently, I am focused on my career in modelling, and I really enjoy what I’m doing,” she responds when asked about branching out, “but I am open to exploring future entrepreneurial opportunities that may arise in the beauty or fashion industry.”

Living Her Best Life

The collaborative spirit that surrounds the fashion world is what constantly impresses her; “I’ve been amazed by the teamwork. It’s impressive to see how many people and how much effort it takes to execute a project. From stylists and photographers to make-up artists, lighting technicians, and agents coordinating behind the scenes – every person on set plays a crucial role. The beauty of it all comes together in the final images, where you can truly appreciate everyone’s combined efforts.”

And when she has time on her hands – which isn’t often – she lives a very laid-back life. You might expect raucous parties and glamorous soirées, but instead Amira veers towards a quiet life, with jeans, a nice T-shirt and comfortable sneakers her top sartorial choices. “To relax and recharge, I love spending quality time with my family and friends. Swimming is another favourite way for me to relax, and when I want to chill out, I also love watching some of my favourite TV shows. I also enjoy reading a good book, and trying out new recipes!” A well-kept secret? “I make the best Tarte Tatin in Paris,” she boasts with a smile.

“To me, achieving a balance where one can make a positive impact through work while doing what you love is the epitome of success,” she insists. Something tells us her future is not just bright, it’s positively brilliant.

Photographer: Giulio Rustichelli. Fashion Director: Anna Castan. Hair: Alfredo Cesarano. Make-Up Artist: Manuela Balducci. Senior Producer: Steff Hawker. Casting Director: Jean-Marc Mondelet. Photo Assistant: Giorgia Pettinari. Styling Assistant: Diletta Accorroni.

Lead image credits: Necklace in Rose Gold with Diamonds; Serpenti Quartz Movement, Waterproof Watch in Yellow Gold with Aquamarine, Tanzanite, Peridots, Tourmaline, and Diamonds, POA, both Bulgari High Jewellery Dress, POA, Giambattista Valli

From Harper’s Bazaar Arabia’s June 2024 issue