Sheikh Abdullah Bin Salem tours the exhibition hall on Wednesday. WAM

Sheikh Abdullah Bin Salem Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the 54th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show, which is organised by Expo Centre Sharjah with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry and will continue until September 29.

The show, the largest event of its kind on the agenda of trade exhibitions specialising in jewellery in the UAE and the region, is attended by more than 900 exhibitors, representing major international companies and brands in the field of watches, gold, precious stones, and rare jewellery pieces.

Abdullah Bin Salem toured the show halls, viewing the exhibits, designs and rare pieces displayed by the participants.

He listened to a detailed explanation from the pavilions’ managers about samples of their exhibits and the innovative techniques in craftsmanship and design, in addition to the latest methods and techniques in the gold and jewellery industry and trade market, and its latest developments and trends at the regional and global levels.

The Deputy Ruler of Sharjah stopped at a number of local and international show platforms, and the Emirati Goldsmiths Platform, which displays the creations of an elite group of Emirati designers in the field of gold and jewellery, inspired by the Emirati heritage with a modern vision, and presents distinctive creations and designs that reflect the latest innovations in the world of jewellery.

The show, which extends over a total area of 30,000 square metres, presents a variety of the latest creations in the world of jewellery and watches, presented by several leading international designers from major jewellery houses, in addition to rare and valuable pieces created by the most prominent participating companies.

The exhibits include a wide range of jewellery designs, diamonds, 21-karat gold, platinum, silver, coloured gemstones, pearls, diamonds, and precious metals, in addition to watches and equipment for jewellery packaging.

India, Hong Kong and Italy top the list of participating countries in terms of the number of exhibitors and companies, with 70 exhibitors from India and 50 exhibitors each from Hong Kong and Italy. In addition to the UAE, other countries are participating in the show, including the UK, the US, Russia, Singapore, China, Japan, Türkiye, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Kingdom of Bahrain, Lebanon, and others.

The show provides the opportunity to attend many events, special shows, competitions, activities and workshops specialised in the field of manufacturing and designing gold and jewellery. It also provides insight into the best innovative global practices in the field of design and meeting famous international designers and experts in precious metals and gemstones.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem was accompanied during his tour of the show by Abdullah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Khalid Jasem Al Midfa, Chairman of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, Issa Hilal Al Hazami, Chairman of the Sharjah Sports Council, Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, Mohammed Ahmed Al Awadhi, Director General of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and several members of the Board of Directors of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, government officials, and diplomats representing the participating countries.

SBWC boosts members’ market reach: The Sharjah Business Women Council (SBWC) is participating in the 2024 edition of the Watch & Jewellery Middle East Show (WJMES), running from September 25 to 29 at Expo Centre Sharjah. During its participation, the council is highlighting the unique benefits of SBWC membership, which provides female entrepreneurs with valuable resources such as exclusive networking opportunities, tailored business support, and avenues to enhance their market presence.

Following a new partnership with Expo Centre Sharjah to strengthen cooperation between the two sides, SBWC is shining light on successful projects of five members, including four with exceptional jewellery and luxury watch collections and one presenting products from the food and beverage sector.

The council’s participation in the semiannual show, which holds significant regional importance, underscores the event’s role in enabling participants to capitalise on key sales seasons in spring and autumn. The exhibition offers new SBWC members the chance to connect with peers, enhance their presence in the regional jewellery industry, engage with potential clients, and strengthen their brands and reputations.

Through its participation, SBWC aims to empower its retail sector members by providing platforms to showcase their products, boost sales, and expand their customer base. These efforts demonstrate the council’s commitment to advancing the achievements of Emirati women and supporting their success across all industries.

WAM