Nike Air Returns for the Regional-Exclusive Air Jordan 3 "Middle East"

Jordan Brand is ending 2026 with a sophisticated nod to one of its fastest-growing sneaker capitals. Slated for a December 2026 window, the Air Jordan 3 “Middle East” is shaping up to be a crown jewel for regional collectors and a major "must-hunt" for collectors the world over.

While Jordan Brand has experimented with regional storytelling before—most notably with the legendary "Seoul" 3s and "Sahiko" 4s—this upcoming drop feels like a more refined evolution. Pictured in early speculative mock-ups, the pair leads with a clean white leather upper that serves as a canvas for a striking purple-like hue wrapped around the heel and midsole accents.

The real "industry" hook here, however, is the return of the "Nike Air" branding on the heel. For the sneaker purist, this isn't just a logo; it’s a signal of "OG" status that significantly shifts the desirability of a new colorway. Adding to the mystery, reports suggest that the tongues will feature unique branding details that are seldom seen on a general release Air Jordan 3s, although it appears that it is now becoming the norm.

While our mock-up doesn't yet show them, expect these details to draw heavily on Middle Eastern heritage and culture, similar to how the "Year of the Horse" Levi's collab, or "Seoul" pairs used their respective canvases for deeper storytelling.

As always with early leaks, the final retail version may differ from these mock-ups. However, with a regional-exclusive tag and the premium "Nike Air" treatment, this pair is already being discussed as the defining release of the 2026 holiday season.

Whether you’re based in Dubai or scouting the resale markets from afar, the "Middle East" 3s represent a major moment for Jordan Brand’s global expansion.

Stay tuned for more firm release details and official imagery as we get closer to the December drop.

For more on Jordan Brand, the Air Jordan 4 "Tour Yellow" is also expected for 2026.