Photo: Txema Yeste
With its January 2024 issue, Vogue Arabia is kickstarting the year with all things new and exciting — beginning with this month’s cover star, a rising model who is taking the fashion world by storm one runway at a time. Meet Moroccan beauty Rania Benchegra, who first caught the world’s attention during 2023’s Vogue Open Casting, and has already walked for the likes of Louis Vuitton, Schiaparelli, and Versace.
Photo: Txema Yeste
Born and raised in the Medina of Marrakech, Benchegra started modeling at age five, when she was invited to shoot for a French brand in Morocco. “My dad thought it would be a great experience,” she says. “Little did he know that it would define my future.” Today, she’s the freshest face in the fashion world, identified by her flawless olive complexion, delicate features, and glossy raven mane, all complemented by her striking walk. “Every opportunity to walk in a fashion show feels like a dream,” she reveals. “The big names were always a fantasy for me, and I was lucky enough to walk these this year. Some other bucket list fashion shows would be Chanel and Bottega Veneta.”
Photo: Txema Yeste
An avid surfer, philanthropist, and cinema enthusiast (Benchegra also happens to hold a degree in film), our January 2024 cover star’s journey has just begun, and she hopes to use her platform to uplift people as she continues to grow. “I will always make sure to give back to my community and remember where I came from,” she shares. “There are a lot of inspiring people and creatives from our part of the world, and I think that if we started to work more collaboratively and really focus on building and growing together, we could create something really powerful and beautiful.”
Photo: Sarah Lasheen
Jumping from fashion to film, the January 2024 issue of Vogue Arabia also puts its lens on two power players from Egypt: actors Amina Khalil and Asser Yassin. Fresh off the success of their recently released post-apocalyptic movie Shamarikh, the dynamic duo come together once again this month for a special spread, where they open up about their latest project, their journeys in film, and how cinema impacts and portrays women. The two actors couldn’t agree more that art plays a crucial role in shaping societal perspectives. “This year, as I have turned thirty-five years old, I find myself to be a fully mature woman,” Khalil muses about her movie choices. “My maturity today is no longer artificial, but comes from within me, and this is what my decisions and reactions show.” Highlighting the responsibility each creative carries, and emphasizing the importance of actors being culturally and socially aware, Yassin contributes, “We must present to society works that show great respect for women. It is our duty to defend women, their status, and their rights.”
A look inside Maxim’s
2024 also brings with it an exciting list of noteworthy names and moments, spreading across fashion, films, and food, to technology, TikTok trends and travel. In this month’s pages, Vogue Arabia invites you to share a glimpse at the next 12 months and what’s going to top trending charts. From the names to know — upcoming Saudi actor Nour Alkhadra, Kaf by Kaf founder Kawthar Alhoraish, photographer Sarah Asheen, and more — to the party of the year (keep your eyes peeled for more details on the Ball of Arabia!), Vogue Arabia’s 2024 list is brimming with dazzling details. Flip through our pages to also discover everything worth knowing about key moments like the Paris 2024 Summer Olympics, Cartier’s exhibition at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the reopening of Maxim’s — the most famous restaurant in the world — and Bulgari’s 140-year anniversary.
The Gucci presentation in Seoul
The new year also ushers in a fresh wave of fashion. This month, we invite you on a journey around the globe as we step inside three cruise 2024 showcases. While Gucci took over Seoul’s 14th-century Gyeongbokgung Palace with a sporty, hyper-modern show to mark 25 years since it first arrived in the country, Maria Grazia Chiuri paid homage to Dior’s longstanding relationship with Mexico with a showcase at Colegio de San Ildefonso, which came to life alongside a performance by Mexican feminist artist Elina Chauvet. And off in Italy, the dreamy island of Isola Bella served as the backdrop for Louis Vuitton’s aquatic collection replete with references to sirens and mermaids. In our fashion pages, we also break down the mystic, magnetic allure of the sea when it comes to sartorial trends. #MermaidCore promises not to drown anytime soon, and scuba-inspired separates are riding the fashion wave like never before.
Photo: Michel Takla
As we step into 2024, we also take a closer look at the Middle East’s abaya, and how it’s reemerging in a new avatar. Doused in cheeky tassels, vibrant plumes, and metallic tones, the newest renditions of the traditional staple by 1309 Studios, Sekka38, Mariam Abdulaziz, and more point towards a new age of dressing in the region. And when it comes to jewelry, more seems to be more this season. Discover the statement pieces on our radar right now, honoring the untamed beauty of the wild.
Vogue Arabia’s first issue of the year turns its focus to all things new in the world of beauty, starting with your ultimate skincare guide. Inside its pages you’ll also find a breakdown of the newest hues to add to your makeup palette, and the mane trends that are set to reign over the next 12 months. Walking down the olfactory route, we also share a glimpse of the spicy new scents that will have you falling in love. Take notes as you step into a brand new year that promises to be memorable.
