Yael Shelbia, who was recently voted one of the world’s most beautiful women, was photographed in New York by fashion photographer Yossi Michaeli Image Credit: Supplied

L’Officiel Arabia has become the first UAE magazine in history to feature an Israeli model, Yael Shelbia, on its cover. The February issue of the magazine is a nod to the forward focused and inclusive nature of the fashion publication.

Boba Stanic, Editor-in-chief of the magazine, said “L’Officiel is known for breaking boundaries and pushing forward the future of fashion” adding that “I’m proud that we are the first in the region to present not only a cover with an Israeli model, but moreover provide a firm endorsement of the talents of a country that has previously been inaccessible to the UAE”.

Yael Shelbia, who was recently voted one of the world’s most beautiful women, was photographed in New York by fashion photographer Yossi Michaeli for the exclusive L’Officiel Arabia cover shoot. Speaking about the shoot Yael Shelbia said: “I am honoured to be on the February cover of L’Officiel Arabia. It is an internationally renowned fashion title, and I am incredibly pleased with the results.”

L’Officiel Arabia’s February issue aims to engage readers with a consistent tone of collaboration and unity. Highlighting not only the importance of the UAE Israeli peace agreement but also in a separate article, the incredible work being undertaken by the Arab Fashion Council. As they work to create a sustainable system for Arab fashion within the vast global marketplace.

The CEO of Chalk Media, the regional publisher of L’Officiel Arabia, Sidaarth Saigal added: “We are delighted with our February issue. We look forward to continuing to champion regional and local talent throughout 2021 and beyond.”L’Officiel Arabia first launched in the region in 2008 and is available across GCC countries. Through its international digital network, L’Officiel reaches 14 million users across 30 countries.