Exclusive Interview with Ingie Chalhoub
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For four decades, Etoile Group has been at the forefront of luxury fashion in the Middle East, bridging the gap between the region’s deep cultural heritage and the world's most prestigious fashion houses. Since bringing the first Chanel boutique to the Arabian Gulf in 1983, the Group has remained a pioneer in high-end retail, curating an exclusive portfolio of global brands while fostering innovation, ethics, and sustainability. Led by Founder and President Ingie Chalhoub, Etoile Group continues to redefine the region’s luxury fashion landscape, cementing its legacy as a leader in the industry.
Etoile Group: A Legacy of Excellence
Etoile Group has played an instrumental role in shaping the Middle East’s luxury retail sector. Over the years, the Group has established partnerships with the world’s most esteemed brands, including Chanel, Valentino, Etro, Aquazzura, Ralph Lauren, Tod’s, and Hogan, while also operating its own renowned multi-brand concept, Etoile La Boutique. With over 60 stores across the GCC and Levant regions and a diverse team of 550 employees from more than 40 nationalities, Etoile Group stands as a testament to innovation, craftsmanship, and cultural appreciation.
In 2024, Etoile Group was recognized as one of Arabian Business’s 100 Most Admired Companies, reflecting its unwavering commitment to excellence and expansion. Over the past three years, the Group has doubled its turnover by broadening its brand portfolio and increasing its footprint in key regional markets, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and Bahrain. By making luxury fashion more accessible while maintaining exclusivity, Etoile Group continues to elevate the shopping experience across the Middle East.
A true innovator and style icon, Ingie Chalhoub has been a driving force in luxury fashion retail for over four decades. Since founding Etoile Group in 1983, she has spearheaded the introduction of some of the world’s most prestigious brands to the Middle East, building a luxury empire that reflects sophistication, heritage, and modernity.
Her exceptional contributions to the industry have earned her numerous accolades, including the prestigious Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur, Forbes Middle East recognition, and the "Emirates Woman Visionary Issue Award 2024". Additionally, she was named "Business Woman of the Year at the Arab Business Woman Awards” by Arabian Business and secured a spot on the global Forbes 50 Over 50 list for 2025. As a philanthropist, she is a founding member of the UNICEF Leadership Circle and an advocate for women’s empowerment through initiatives like Pink Caravan and Dubai Cares.
L’Officiel had the opportunity to sit down with Ingie Chalhoub to discuss Etoile Group’s journey, its recent expansion, and the future of luxury fashion in the Middle East.
Tanja Beljanski: Etoile Group has been a cornerstone of luxury fashion in the Middle East for 40 years. What motivated you to bring Chanel to the Arabian Gulf in 1983, and how has the journey shaped the Group’s legacy?
Ingie Chalhoub: It was about bridging two worlds — introducing global luxury to the rich culture of our region. The success of Chanel and other couture houses validated my belief in this exchange, setting the foundation for Etoile Group as a platform that connects East and West. Our legacy is built on authenticity, quality, and a deep respect for artisanship.
Etoile Group recently doubled its turnover and expanded its footprint. What has been the driving force behind this growth, and how do you plan to sustain it?
Our growth stems from strong brand partnerships and a deep understanding of the Middle Eastern client. We curate bespoke collections, create immersive retail environments, and integrate luxury with cutting-edge e-commerce technologies. Looking ahead, we are focusing on digital innovation, geographical expansion, and nurturing talent within our organization.
As a style icon and business leader, how do you balance managing a multi-brand luxury business with staying innovative and relevant?
Surrounding myself with a strong team is key. Consumers in this region seek personalized luxury experiences that reflect their cultural identity. We listen closely to our clients, understanding how their lifestyles and tastes evolve. This insight helps us anticipate future trends while ensuring our offerings remain relevant.
Etoile Group is known for its commitment to ethics, artisanship, and sustainability. How do these values influence your operations?
Ethics and craftsmanship are at the heart of Etoile Group. We work with partners who share our values and uphold high standards. Over 50% of the brands at Etoile La Boutique are sustainable, and more than 60% are women-led. Additionally, we actively support emerging talent, ensuring a future where innovation and tradition coexist.
How is Etoile Group integrating responsible fashion into its operations?
Sustainability is about respect — for craftsmanship, the environment, and the communities behind these creations. We partner with educational institutions like Istituto Marangoni to mentor young designers. We also align with global sustainability initiatives, such as The Fashion Pact, to ensure ethical practices across our supply chain.
How do you see female entrepreneurs shaping the luxury fashion industry in the Middle East?
I’m inspired by the incredible women driving change in our industry. Their unique perspectives are transforming the concept of luxury while fostering inclusivity. Their influence is placing regional fashion on the global stage, integrating heritage with modern trends, and inspiring the next generation of creatives.”
You’ve received numerous awards, including the ‘Chevalier de la Légion d’Honneur’ and Business Woman of the Year. How have these recognitions influenced your approach to leadership and philanthropy?
These honors reinforce the importance of staying true to my values. Leadership should be rooted in empathy and courage. I feel a responsibility to give back, ensuring that success translates into inspiration and positive impact.
What excites you most about the future of luxury fashion in the Middle East?
The region’s blend of cultural heritage and modern luxury creates a unique identity. Consumers here are well-traveled and tech-savvy, demanding experiences that are both meaningful and innovative. The future is about balancing tradition with contemporary trends to create an evolving narrative in fashion.
How do you envision the future of omni-channel luxury retail?
It’s about blending digital convenience with in-person luxury. Clients appreciate efficiency but still crave tactile experiences. Immersive technologies and personalization will play a major role in enhancing the shopping journey.
Etoile Group supports emerging talent. Can you share upcoming initiatives aimed at fostering creativity in the region?
We’ve partnered with institutions like FAD Dubai and Istituto Marangoni to mentor young designers. We also showcase regional designers at Etoile La Boutique, including talents like Mrs. Keepa, Dima Ayad, and Marmar Halim. Supporting the next generation is essential to a dynamic fashion ecosystem.
With four decades of groundbreaking achievements, Etoile Group stands as a beacon of innovation, luxury, and cultural appreciation in the Middle East. Under Ingie Chalhoub’s visionary leadership, the Group continues to expand its influence, shaping the future of fashion while upholding the highest standards of craftsmanship, sustainability, and ethical business practices. As Etoile Group embarks on its next chapter, its legacy remains firmly rooted in its dedication to excellence and its unwavering commitment to redefining luxury in the region and beyond.
