Ali Itani, Dubai

A Bathing Ape also known as BAPE, the Japanese clothing brand associated with setting the standard in elevating lifestyle and streetwear, launched it much anticipated collaboration with Levi’s, the iconic Denim brand in Dubai at SoleDXB, the premier sneakerhead convention in the region.

It was a strategic decision for BAPE to open their first store in the Middle East in Dubai Mall and as per Billy Choi, CEO of BAPE this was “due to finding a reliable partner who knows the landscape and can expand BAPE in this market” as stated in an exclusive interview with Arab News Japan at the preopening of SoleDXB.

It was during his visit to Dubai to oversee the premier launch of the BAPE X Levi’s FW19 Capsule which was mainly composed of a Levi’s Type III Trucker Jacket emblazoned on the inside with the renowned BAPE camo but in green, red, black and white, the colors of the Flag of the UAE and with a very prominent zipper in the middle of the back of the Jacket which creates two equal halves, allowing you to zip it to another half of a different color jacket of the same collection. At SoleDXB potential buyers got a raffle card to be able to have the chance to buy and personalize their jacket buttons and add unique patches for Dubai to make it their own.

While this may be the first time to officially have Dubai on a BAPE product, it wont be too long a wait as the “Dubai store will have its one year anniversary in May 2020 and thanks to all the fans and to show appreciation for their support, we will work to have a Bapexclusive in Dubai, and maybe even share them later with worldwide fans who want them” exclaimed Mr. Choi, “when I saw the hype here, I was excited because people know a lot about fashion, especially in our segment so I am happy to see this.”

“One of our wishes is to expand and expose BAPE to more countries and cities in the Middle East including Saudi Arabia. Now we are focusing on the Biggest BAPE Store in the world which will be opening near Mayfair in London next year” Stated Choi.

It seems that BAPE has big plans for the Middle East and this is all justified with the evident interest in their products amongst an ever growing fanbase who will finally be able to buy it close to home.