Saudi Arabia unveils bio-based textile from Red Sea seaweed

The Saudi Fashion Commission has launched a new bio-based textile created from Red Sea seaweed, marking an important step in the country’s push toward sustainable fashion. The announcement was made at the Misk Global Forum, where the Commission also displayed garments made from this new material at The Lab, its product development space.

The material was introduced during a panel discussion titled Fabric of the Future: Red Sea Seaweed Textile. The session featured Fashion Commission CEO Burak Çakmak, KAUST Beacon Development COO Fiona Symes, and PYRATEX CEO Regina Polanco. They explained how scientific research, advanced manufacturing, and creative design came together to make this innovation possible.

Using KAUST’s knowledge of marine algae, KBD carried out careful surveys and responsible harvesting of Red Sea seaweed, ensuring that marine life was protected while keeping the algae’s natural properties intact. This sustainably collected seaweed becomes the base of a fully traceable, eco-friendly fiber that supports the country’s environmental goals.

In partnership with PYRATEX®, the seaweed biomass was mixed with Lyocell to develop a new textile fiber. The final fabric, made from Lyocell, algae-based additives, and organic cotton, provides natural origins, skin-friendly properties, and complete transparency throughout its supply chain.

For the first time in Saudi Arabia, the Fashion Commission used this fabric to create finished garments at The Lab, showing that the country can turn local, sustainable materials into wearable clothing within its own borders.