Capitalizing o the growing garment industry in the Middle East, Indonesia aims to expand its modest fashion exports to Saudi Arabia, as per a report by the Ministry of Industry.
Ranked third globally for modest fashion in the 2023/24 Global Islamic Economy Report, behind Turkiye and Malaysia, Indonesia recorded a 18 per cent rise in sale of modest fashion products to $20 billion, Jakarta seeks to leverage this global potential by developing its domestic market and increasing exports to Muslim countries, particularly in the Middle East.
A large Muslim population and high purchasing power makes Saudi Arabia one of the biggest markets for modest fashion globally, says Reni Yanita, Director-General - Small and Medium Industries, Ministry of Industry. Consumers in Saudi Arabia prefer to buy high-quality, fashionable modest fashion products that adhere to Islamic principles, providing significant opportunities for Indonesian products, she adds.
Indonesian modest fashion brands have benefited from digital platforms, using e-commerce to reach national and international buyers. The government has supported this growth through trade roadshows, networking opportunities with foreign partners, and sponsoring events like the Muslim Fashion Festival.
According to Indonesia, valued at $4.25 billion in 2025, the Saudi Fashion market is prouected to grow to $5.7 billion by 2030, according to Research and Markets. This growth reflects a broader trend in the Middle East, where the garment industry is valued at approximately $89 billion.
This huge potential of the Middle East market will positively impact Indonesia's economic growth by increasing exports of modest fashion products, states Yanita. Indonesia can also boost bilateral trade relations and attract more investments through economic cooperation with Middle Eastern countries, she adds.
