Sudanese model Noor Yahya overcame rejection and hardship in Dubai to become the first UAE-based Sudanese model to walk for Chanel, inspiring aspiring models through perseverance and confidence.
WEBDESK – ZAINAB MIRAJ – SHARJAH NEWS
After facing rejection, uncertainty and long days searching for opportunities in Dubai, UAE-based Sudanese model Noor Yahya made history by becoming the first Sudanese model living in the UAE to walk for Chanel at Paris Fashion Week.
In Dubai, Sudanese model Noor Yahya has achieved a historic milestone after becoming the first UAE-based Sudanese model to walk for luxury fashion house Chanel during Paris Fashion Week in March 2026. Her achievement came after months of rejection, job hunting and determination as she pursued her dream of becoming a professional model in Dubai.
A Dream That Began in Dubai
Noor arrived in the UAE with one clear goal, to build a career in modelling. Unlike many expatriates who move to Dubai seeking traditional employment, she was determined to follow her passion despite the challenges.
She spent months attending casting calls, job interviews and agency meetings while walking across the city carrying her modelling portfolio. Throughout the journey, she documented her experiences on social media, sharing both her successes and disappointments.
Although many opportunities did not work out, Noor refused to give up.
Leaving a Stable Career Behind
Born and raised in Sudan, Noor studied Economics, Statistics and Political Science at the University of Khartoum. After graduation, she secured a stable job, but soon realized it did not match her passion.
A photoshoot with friends sparked her interest in modelling and inspired her to leave her career behind in search of a more creative future.
Friends and family encouraged her to balance modelling with a regular job, but despite attending numerous interviews, employment opportunities never materialized.
Instead of seeing those setbacks as failures, Noor chose to focus on improving herself and pursuing her dream.
Turning Rejection into Motivation
Noor said the biggest challenge in the fashion industry was learning to deal with rejection.
She explained that not being selected for a project did not mean she lacked talent. Instead, she learned that every casting had different requirements and that rejection was simply part of the profession.
This positive mindset helped her remain confident and continue working towards her goals.
The Chanel Moment
After several rounds of auditions and fittings, Noor finally received the phone call that changed her career.
She was informed that she had been selected to walk for Chanel’s Fall/Winter 2026–2027 show at Paris Fashion Week.
The moment marked a major breakthrough, making her the first Sudanese model based in the UAE to appear on Chanel’s world-famous runway.
Noor described the experience as one of the happiest moments of her life and said every challenge she faced had prepared her for that achievement.
A Message Beyond Fashion
Beyond her modelling success, Noor also hopes to inspire others to embrace self-confidence and self-acceptance.
She revealed that she once felt pressured to change her appearance because of beauty standards favoring lighter skin. Over time, she learned to accept herself and now encourages others to value their natural beauty.
Her story reflects perseverance, confidence and the belief that determination can overcome obstacles.
Noor Yahya’s journey from walking the streets of Dubai in search of opportunities to walking one of the world’s most prestigious fashion runways is an inspiring example of resilience. Her achievement not only represents a personal milestone but also serves as motivation for young people across the UAE and beyond to pursue their dreams despite setbacks.
