‘A Tribute To The Pearl Merchant’ at Azyan exhibition and conference

Inspired by the UAE’s fabled pearl industry and the sheer magnificence of it, the homegrown high-end fashion label Azzalia, by Sheikha Amal bint Mana Al Maktoum, a noted Emirati fashion designer, presented her new collection at Azyan Exhibition and Conference, taking place at Al Jawaher Reception & Convention Centre (JRCC), Sharjah.

The new collection titled ‘A Tribute to the Pearl Merchant’ underpins the contributions of the UAE and Arabian Gulf to the pearl trading industry, and positions the region as home to one of the most precious jewels in the world.

Sheikha Amal noted that the newly launched summer collection is in honour of her great grandfather, Mana Al Maktoum, who was known for his devoted work towards the pearl industry and overall contributions towards development of Dubai, which made him a highly-regarded reformist.

Sheikha Amal noted that the newly launched summer collection is in honour of her great grandfather.

Before the launch of the collection, the audience were given a glimpse into the life of the late Mana Al Maktoum, who inspired Sheikha Amal’s special signature collection by Azzalia.

The story dates back to the year 1224, when late Mana Al Maktoum pursued his passion for pearls by drafting informative maps of the all-known pearl beds in the region in order to help pearl traders travel across the Arabian Gulf and dive for pearls. In a span of over 14 years, he was able to map the pearl-beds stretching the Arabian Gulf, Persia’s coastlines and Bahrain. This map is considered to be a miracle of its time, as it revolutionised the industry, by giving merchants, divers, and travellers an interesting insight into the geographies of the Gulf.

A Tribute To The Pearl Merchant by Azzalia resonates with the magnificent pieces of art that chronicles the Arabian Gulf’s story of waves and shells, exemplified in the long gowns and dropped waist dresses, that shimmer in pastel colours and pearl shades. 

Presenting the awe-inspiring collection, models shined on the catwalk, with bright pieces of gleaming silk, chiffon, and linen dresses, most of which are decorated with pearl chains and glistening stones, adding a touch of royalty and elegance to them.