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"The GCC is one of the fastest growing markets in the world in terms of demand for gold and jewellery," said Helal Al Marri, Director General of Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of the show. "It has an enormous number of high net worth individuals and Areeq Dubai has been created to provide a dedicated event for these elite buyers to see the latest collections from renowned jewellers," he added.
According to reports by the World Gold Council, the 2nd quarter of 2007 saw a 21% increase in demand for jewellery in the Middle East and GCC region. Backed by strong economies and stable governments, and a population that has 300,000 millionaires with a combined wealth of $1.2 trillion, the Middle East is a market unlike any other for high-end luxury goods. The future looks brighter than ever, with World Wealth Reports showing that, at 19.7%, the pace of growth in the number of millionaires is higher in the region than anywhere else in the world.
These impressive facts and figures set the stage perfectly for Areeq Dubai, where the regions high society will come together under one roof.
An exclusive, by invitation only Private Preview on the 12 December offers guest a glimpse of things to come over the next three days before the show is open to the public. This event will see exhibitors unveil their top designs and launches for the first time to both the media and to invited guests. Valet parking will be provided courtesy of Visa International for all guests during the Private Preview and throughout the show to ensure a truly VIP visit.
The highlight of the Private Preview will be the unveiling of a one of a kind Gianfranco Ferre jewel studded top for the first time in the Middle East, carrying more than 900 stunning diamonds, mounted in white gold. The body hugging top combines over 300 carats and was designed by the late renowned fashion designer Gianfranco Ferre, it has a market value of $1.3m.
The top concluded Ferré's women's collection for fall/winter 2007/2008. Matched with black tuxedo pants and a black silk cape, the outfit was worn on the runway by British rock singer Skin. This unique creation including the outfit will be available to purchase in a special auction, details to be revealed at a later date.
Areeq Dubai will be officially opened on the 13 December offering guests the opportunity to experience a unique fashion show on the 13 and 14 December. Models will showcase the dazzling Damas international range which promises to keep the audience enthralled. The fashion show will begin at 5.30pm and again at 8.30pm on both evenings.
Areeq Dubai will also provide guests with exclusive promotions, one of which includes the possibility of guests winning their own sparkling stone. They say a diamond is forever, and Dhamani Jewels, the sole distributors of the 'Dubai Cut' Diamond, will ensure that one lucky visitor goes home with a certified diamond on each of the three days.
The Areeq Dubai's exhibitor profile reads like the who's who of top-end jewellery and timepiece houses. Tawhid Abdullah, Managing Director of Damas remarks,
"The Dubai International Jewellery Week is the ideal platform to reinforce Dubai's position as an international hub of jewellery design, manufacture and sales. Since its inception, we have seen how this event has contributed to the success of what has become a multibillion dollar industry. This initiative is not only significant for generating business for individual companies but also for fostering goodwill and solidarity among industry players. With our participation this year, we expect to gather new insights on our business, our markets and the jewellery industry in general."
Mr Abdullah added, "Damas will present some of the world's most respected jewellery brands during the 3-day event. Winning the trust and confidence of these international players is already significant achievement for us and it only brings us closer to becoming a truly global jewellery brand. As a pioneering jewellery retailer in the region, we are committed to support Dubai International Jewellery Week and look forward to its continued success in the years to come."
Areeq Dubai will take place from the 13 - 15 of December between 4pm to 10pm, with an exclusive ladies-only timing on the 13 of December between 12pm to 4pm, where female visitors to the show will get an exclusive preview of the collections before the general public arrives at 4pm.
Admission to Areeq Dubai is free with a valid invitation from the organiser; otherwise a fee of Dhs50 will be charged onsite which is refundable upon any jewellery purchase made at the show.
Anne-Birte Stensgaard, Senior News Editor
