Elie Saab Biography, Age, Wife, Career, and Personal Life
Elie Saab is a globally acclaimed Lebanese fashion designer best known for his exquisite haute couture creations and bridal collections. He has dressed numerous A-list celebrities, royalty, and high-profile public figures for red carpet events and royal weddings. With a design philosophy that merges Western cutting techniques with Middle Eastern aesthetics, Elie Saab has carved out an exclusive space in the world of luxury fashion.

Full Name | Elie Saab |
Date of Birth | July 4, 1964 |
Age (as of 2025) | 61 years old |
Place of Birth | Damour, Lebanon |
Nationality | Lebanese |
Profession | Fashion Designer |
Known For | Haute Couture, Bridal Wear, Red Carpet Gowns |
Years Active | 1982–present |
Spouse | Claudine Saab |
Children | 3 |
Residence | Beirut, Lebanon & Paris, France |
Fashion Label | Elie Saab |
Signature Style | Embroidered gowns, luxe fabrics, beaded detailing |
Notable Clients | Halle Berry, Queen Rania, Angelina Jolie, Beyoncé |
Early Life and Education
Elie Saab was born in Beirut, Lebanon, and showed an interest in fashion from an early age. By the age of nine, he was already sketching designs and experimenting with fabrics. He opened his first atelier at the age of 18 in Beirut, where he designed for a private clientele. Though largely self-taught, Saab briefly studied fashion in Paris before returning to Lebanon to grow his brand.
Career Milestones
1982 – Launch of Elie Saab Couture House
Saab opened his first atelier in Beirut, employing over a dozen workers. His early collections included bridal gowns and evening dresses rich in oriental ornamentation.
1997 – Invited to Rome’s Camera Nazionale della Moda
He became the first non-Italian designer invited to join the prestigious organization, marking his growing influence.
2002 – Halle Berry’s Oscar Dress
Halle Berry wore an Elie Saab gown when she won the Academy Award, gaining Saab international fame overnight.
2003 – Official Haute Couture Member in Paris
Saab was invited to become a member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture, solidifying his status in Paris.
Expansion of Elie Saab Brand
Today, Saab designs ready-to-wear, couture, bridal, accessories, and fragrances. His flagship boutiques are in Paris, Beirut, London, New York, and Dubai.
Career Highlights
Entry into Fashion
In 1982, at only 18 years old, Elie Saab launched his fashion label in Beirut, specializing in bridal couture. His reputation grew quickly across the Middle East.
International Breakthrough
Elie Saab gained international fame in 2002 when Halle Berry wore one of his gowns to the Academy Awards, where she won Best Actress. This pivotal moment established Saab as a red-carpet favorite.
Couture and RTW Collections
- Haute Couture: Debuted on the Paris catwalk in 2003, and by 2006, he was a guest member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture.
- Ready-to-Wear: In 2006, Saab launched a ready-to-wear line, broadening his appeal beyond couture.
- Bridal: Known globally for his ethereal wedding gowns.
Fragrance and Accessories
In 2011, Elie Saab introduced his first fragrance, Le Parfum, followed by a series of luxury perfumes, accessories, and handbags.
Retail Expansion
- Flagship boutiques in Beirut, Paris, London, Dubai, and New York.
- Stocked at high-end retailers such as Harrods, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Neiman Marcus.
Notable Celebrities Dressed
- Halle Berry
- Angelina Jolie
- Queen Rania of Jordan
- Priyanka Chopra
- Taylor Swift
Personal Life
Elie Saab is married to Claudine Saab, and they have three sons. Despite his fame, Saab maintains a relatively private life and is known for his humility and dedication to his craft. He remains deeply connected to Lebanon, where his main atelier still operates.
Elie Saab’s Wife & Family
Elie Saab is married to Claudine Saab, who plays a significant role in his business operations. The couple shares three children and maintains residences in Beirut and Paris. While Elie Saab commands global attention in the fashion world, he keeps his family life relatively private.
Claudine Saab has been instrumental in helping manage the brand’s expansion into new markets, including fragrance, accessories, and lifestyle collections.
🌍 Global Rise to Fame
Elie Saab’s international breakthrough came in 2002 when Halle Berry wore one of his burgundy hand-embroidered gowns to the Academy Awards, where she won Best Actress. The moment was historic—not only for Berry but also for Saab, whose name instantly became known across Hollywood and the fashion elite.
His style—defined by romantic silhouettes, rich fabrics, intricate beading, and cultural craftsmanship—resonated with women around the world.
Design Aesthetic
Elie Saab’s designs are known for:
- Rich embroidery and lace
- Luxurious fabrics (silk, tulle, chiffon)
- Feminine silhouettes
- Regal and romantic themes
- Mediterranean and Middle Eastern influence
He draws inspiration from Arabic architecture, baroque art, and the glamour of old Hollywood.
📈 Legacy and Influence
Elie Saab has redefined what it means to be a designer from the Arab world. His legacy is one of cultural pride, technical mastery, and global influence. He remains an inspiration for countless aspiring designers—especially in the Middle East, Asia, and Europe—who admire his ability to bridge cultures through fashion.
His brand “Elie Saab” is now synonymous with elegance, luxury, and empowerment, often worn by powerful, graceful women around the world.
Awards and Recognition
- 2003: Became the first non-Italian designer invited to join the Italian Camera Nazionale della Moda.
- 2006: Became a member of the Chambre Syndicale de la Haute Couture.
- 2007: Named Fashion Designer of the Year by the Arabian Business Awards.
- 2016: Awarded Lebanese Order of Merit.
Brand Extensions
- Elie Saab Parfums: Fragrances for men and women, popular globally.
- Elie Saab Bridal Collection: Coveted by brides worldwide.
- Collaborations: Designed interiors for real estate projects in Dubai and fashion accessories for major brands.
💰 Elie Saab Net Worth (2022–2025)
Year | Estimated Net Worth |
---|---|
2022 | $150 million USD |
2023 | $160 million USD |
2024 | $170 million USD |
2025 | $180 million USD (est.) |
Saab’s wealth stems from multiple revenue streams, including couture sales, luxury retail, global brand licensing, perfumes, and accessories.
Social Media Profiles
- Instagram – @eliesaabworld
- YouTube
- Official Website
FAQs about Elie Saab
Who is Elie Saab?
Elie Saab is a world-renowned Lebanese fashion designer famous for his red-carpet gowns and haute couture collections.
What is Elie Saab’s net worth?
As of 2025, Elie Saab’s estimated net worth is around $200 million.
Where is Elie Saab based?
His main atelier is in Beirut, Lebanon, with fashion houses and stores across major global cities.
Is Elie Saab married?
Yes, he is married to Claudine Saab.
Which celebrities wear Elie Saab?
Celebrities such as Halle Berry, Priyanka Chopra, Angelina Jolie, and Queen Rania frequently wear his designs.
Conclusion
Elie Saab’s remarkable journey—from a self-taught teen in Lebanon to one of the most sought-after fashion designers in the world—is a story of passion, dedication, and creativity. His designs speak to the soul of femininity, combining regal opulence with modern sensibilities.
As his brand expands globally, Elie Saab continues to be a powerful voice for Middle Eastern artistry, a pioneer of haute couture, and a visionary in luxury fashion.