Middle Eastern Beauty Brands Shine with Ramadan-Edition Brushes: Gold-Accented Bristles Lead the Gifting Trend

As Ramadan, the holiest month in the Islamic calendar, unfolds across the Middle East, the region’s beauty industry is embracing the spirit of celebration with a sparkling new trend: Ramadan-edition makeup brushes. Leading Middle Eastern beauty brands are launching limited-edition brush collections designed specifically for the season, with gold-accented bristles taking center stage as a symbol of luxury and festivity. These brushes aren’t just tools—they’re cultural tokens, blending tradition, artistry, and the joy of gifting, a cornerstone of Ramadan hospitality.

Ramadan transforms consumer behavior across the Middle East, with beauty spending surging as families prepare for gatherings, and individuals seek to elevate their daily routines during this reflective month. According to recent reports, Middle Eastern beauty sales rise by 30-40% annually during Ramadan, with “giftable” sets driving a significant portion of this growth. Brands like Amara Beauty, a Dubai-based label known for its fusion of Arabic design and high-performance cosmetics, and Beirut’s Nur Cosmetics, celebrated for its sustainable beauty ethos, are capitalizing on this demand by reimagining a daily essential—the makeup brush—as a Ramadan keepsake.

At the heart of these collections is the gold-accented bristle, a detail that marries symbolism with aesthetics. Gold holds deep cultural meaning in the Middle East, representing prosperity, purity, and divine light—values closely tied to Ramadan’s spiritual essence. Brands are crafting these bristles through innovative techniques: some use ultra-fine gold-plated synthetic fibers for a shimmering, cruelty-free finish, while others blend natural goat hair with metallic gold threads, creating a soft yet radiant texture. The result? Brushes that catch the light during evening Taraweeh prayers or add a touch of opulence to post-iftar makeup sessions.

Design extends beyond the bristles to the handles and packaging, which nod to regional heritage. Amara’s “Laylat al-Qadr” set features brush handles carved with geometric patterns inspired by Islamic architecture, while Nur’s “Crescent Glow” collection wraps its brushes in silk-lined boxes adorned with hand-painted crescent moons and stars. These details aren’t just decorative; they turn the product into a storyteller, inviting users to connect with Ramadan’s traditions every time they use the brushes.

The gifting angle is equally intentional. Ramadan is a time of giving—whether to family, friends, or those in need—and beauty brands are positioning these brush sets as “thoughtful yet practical” presents. Unlike fleeting fragrances or single-use face masks, a high-quality brush set offers longevity, reminding recipients of the giver’s care long after the month ends. Retailers note that sets priced between AED 150-300 (approx. $40-80) are flying off shelves, appealing to both budget-conscious shoppers and luxury seekers.

This trend also reflects a broader shift in Middle Eastern beauty: brands are moving beyond generic “limited editions” to create products rooted in local culture. By centering Ramadan’s values—generosity, spirituality, community—they’re building deeper loyalty with consumers who crave authenticity. As one Nur Cosmetics executive shared, “Our Ramadan brushes aren’t just about selling a product; they’re about celebrating our customers’ identity. When a woman gifts these brushes to her sister or daughter, she’s passing on more than a tool—she’s sharing a piece of our heritage.”

As Ramadan 2024 progresses, these gold-accented brushes are more than a trend—they’re a testament to the Middle Eastern beauty industry’s ability to blend tradition with innovation. For brands, they’re a masterclass in seasonal marketing; for consumers, they’re a way to carry Ramadan’s magic into their daily lives, one stroke at a time.