Regional exclusives usually mean a familiar colourway with a city or country name attached. The Air Jordan 3 'Middle East' goes further. Jordan Brand has changed several details specifically for this release, and the result is one of the more considered Air Jordan 3s of the year.
The pair releases in December 2026, exclusively in Middle Eastern markets.
The most obvious detail is the number. Instead of the usual 23, the tongues carry the Arabic numerals ٢٣, which also appear elsewhere on the shoe. It ties the pair to the region without turning it into a costume.
The bigger change is one most people will notice only up close. The elephant print, the most recognisable part of any Air Jordan 3, has been replaced with a raised geometric pattern around the toe and heel. For a model defined by that print since 1988, it is an unusual decision, and it makes the 'Middle East' look different from every other Air Jordan 3 on the shelf.
The colour palette stays soft and warm: Soft Pearl on the upper, with Mink Brown, Light Orewood Brown and Pomegranate accents. Nike Air is stamped on the heel, a small Jumpman sits near the laces, and burgundy laces come as a second option. A leather Jumpman hangtag completes it, and the special packaging picks up the same burgundy and the 23 theme.
Air Jordan 3 'Middle East' Release
The Air Jordan 3 'Middle East' releases in December 2026, exclusively in the Middle East through SNKRS and selected retailers. The style code is IX6986-047 and the official colourway is Soft Pearl/Mink Brown-Light Orewood Brown-Pomegranate.
Because it is a regional release, pairs will be hard to get in Europe through normal retail. The pair is not yet listed on KLEKT, but you can browse every other model in the full Air Jordan 3 range on KLEKT in the meantime.
Check out the Air Jordan 3 on KLEKT.
Images: Nike / Jordan Brand
