From Humble Beginnings to Retail Royalty
Sima Ganwani Ved’s journey from a young department manager to the founder and chairwoman of Apparel Group is a testament to vision and perseverance. Born in Africa and relocating to Dubai in the 1970s, Sima’s early experiences in her father’s shopping mall laid the foundation for her future endeavors.
The Birth of Apparel Group
In 1996, Sima embarked on her entrepreneurial journey by establishing Apparel Group in Dubai. The company’s inaugural venture was securing the franchise rights for Nine West, marking the beginning of a retail empire.
Expanding Horizons
Under Sima’s leadership, Apparel Group experienced exponential growth. Today, the conglomerate boasts over 85 brands and operates more than 2,300 stores across 14 countries, including the UAE, Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, India, Pakistan, Egypt, South Africa, and Indonesia.
A Diverse Portfolio
Apparel Group’s brand portfolio is a reflection of Sima’s strategic vision. The group manages a mix of international fashion, footwear, and lifestyle brands, such as:
- Aldo: A global footwear and accessories brand known for its trendy designs.
- Tommy Hilfiger: An iconic fashion brand offering classic American style.
- Skechers: A lifestyle and performance footwear company.
- Tim Hortons: A renowned coffeehouse chain.
- Calvin Klein: A brand synonymous with modern and minimalist aesthetics.
Embracing Digital Transformation
Recognizing the shifting dynamics of retail, Sima led Apparel Group’s foray into digital platforms. The launch of 6thStreet.com, an online fashion destination, exemplifies the group’s commitment to omnichannel retailing. This platform offers consumers access to over 1,200 international brands, bridging the gap between online and offline shopping experiences.
Sustainable and Ethical Practices
Sima’s dedication to sustainability is evident in Apparel Group’s operations. In August 2021, the company’s headquarters earned the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Platinum certification from the US Green Building Council. This accolade underscores the group’s commitment to environmental responsibility.
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Beyond business, Sima is deeply involved in philanthropic endeavors. Her compassion for underprivileged children inspired her to mentor her teenage daughter in launching F5 Global, an athleisure brand that allocates a portion of its proceeds to educational initiatives for disadvantaged youth.
Empowering the Next Generation
Sima’s role as a mentor extends to her eldest daughter, Selina Ved, in the creation of NESSA, a social commerce beauty platform. This venture reflects Sima’s belief in empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs and fostering innovation within the family.
Recognitions and Accolades
Sima’s contributions to the business world have not gone unnoticed. She was ranked 12th among the 100 most powerful businesswomen in the Middle East by Forbes in 2024 and 2025. Additionally, Arabian Business recognized her as one of the 100 Most Inspiring Women in 2025.
Recent Developments
Apparel Group continues to expand its footprint. In April 2022, the company launched 20 stores at the Place Vendôme mall in Lusail City, Qatar. Furthermore, a partnership with Indian cosmetics retailer Nykaa led to the creation of Nysaa, a multi-brand beauty retail business in the GCC, with Nykaa holding a 55% stake and Apparel Group 45%. The first Nysaa store debuted at City Centre Mirdif in Dubai in March 2024.
A Visionary Leader
Sima Ganwani Ved’s journey from managing a department in her father’s mall to leading a global retail conglomerate is a story of resilience, innovation, and unwavering commitment. Her ability to adapt to changing market dynamics, embrace digital transformation, and invest in sustainable practices positions her as a trailblazer in the retail industry. Through her philanthropic efforts and mentorship, she continues to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, solidifying her legacy as a visionary leader.
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