Bil Arabi
Bil Arabi is a Dubai based fine jewellery brand founded in 2006 by Lebanese designer Nadine Kanso. It makes unisex 18 karat gold jewellery built around Arabic letters, words and calligraphy.
| Founded | 2006 |
|---|---|
| Founder | Nadine Kanso |
| Base | Dubai, UAE |
| Material | 18 karat gold |
| Design theme | Arabic calligraphy |
| Website | bilarabi.com |
What is Bil Arabi?
Bil Arabi, meaning "in Arabic", is a jewellery brand established in Dubai in 2006 by Nadine Kanso, a Lebanese photographer and designer born and educated in Beirut. The launch coincided with her inclusion in the Victoria and Albert Museum group show Arabize Me in London.
Products and positioning
The brand's concept is the Arabic language itself. Designs spell out positive words such as Al Hob (love), Al Hayat (life) and Al Noor (light), often in Kanso's own handwriting, with the aim of celebrating Arab culture and countering misconceptions about the region.
- Unisex rings, necklaces, earrings, bracelets and cufflinks
- Colourful collections in 18 karat gold
- Signature lines including the oversized Noon rings, the enamelled Nujum stars and finger length toul rings
Bil Arabi has also collaborated beyond jewellery, including a range of notepads, plates and mugs with Emirates airline in 2016 and a wall mounted rug with Lebanese carpet gallery Iwan Maktabi.
Why it matters
Bil Arabi was an early example of a Middle Eastern jewellery brand turning Arabic script into a contemporary luxury design language. It has helped establish calligraphic jewellery as a recognisable regional category with appeal to both Arab and international customers.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Bil Arabi?
Bil Arabi was founded in 2006 by Lebanese designer and photographer Nadine Kanso.
What does Bil Arabi make?
Bil Arabi makes unisex 18 karat gold jewellery featuring Arabic letters, words and calligraphy.