What’s On has details of Karl Lagerfeld in Dubai, where he’ll showcase Chanel’s 2014-15 Cruise collection and open new stores featuring Kuilted collection.

Dubai’s fashion set is already all aflutter ahead of Chanel’s first ever runway show in the emirate later this month.

Now it has emerged that head designer Karl Lagerfeld will use his trip to Dubai to open a string of stores in the city housing his eponymous line.

According to Women’s Wear Daily the German designer has made a deal with the Chalhoub Group to open 10 Karl Lagerfeld stores in Dubai and Saudi Arabia by 2018.

The deal is further indication of the celebrated designer’s intention to strengthen his presence in the Middle East, after it was announced in February that Lagerfeld would showcase Chanel’s 2014-15 Cruise collection in Dubai.

The runway show will take place in Dubai’s design district on May 13. The lucky few allocated a seat on the frow may find themselves up close and personal with Kaiser Karl himself, who will be in attendance on the day.

A statement from the prestigious French fashion house said: “A futuristic megalopolis of the 21st Century, the ever-developing Emirate of Dubai is a crossroads of civilisation between Europe and Asia. This dynamic and multicultural city that inspires travel and evokes the spirit of cruise is also the perfect setting for the show that will be held on May 13 2014 in the presence of Karl Lagerfeld.”

The Chalhoub Group, which already distributes luxury brands like Dior, Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs in Dubai, hailed the designer’s “iconic vision”.

“…By combining our expertise with Karl Lagerfeld’s iconic vision and strategy, we will be able to build a successful brand in the Middle East region and respond to customers’ needs and aspirations.”

The focus of the new stores is expected to be on Lagerfeld’s Kuilted collection.

The range of handbags and backpacks is a slightly more affordable means of getting your hands on a little piece of Lagerfeld magic – a Kuilted leather shoulder bag costs around Dhs1,900, compared with upwards of Dhs20,000 for some classic Chanel 2.55 handbags.