Dubai International Jewellery Week 2008 opens to regions top buyers

Once again, Dubai International Jewellery Week being held from 11-15 November 2008 comprises of 3 targeted events including Areeq Dubai, Jewellery Collections Dubai and Jewellery Trade Dubai.

Jewellery Collections Dubai, an extensive display of jewellery and timepieces from all over the world combined with Jewellery Trade Dubai, the only business-to-business jewellery event in the Middle East, are open from 11 -15 November. Whilst for discerning buyers of some of world's most prestigious watch and jewellery brands Areeq Dubai, will open tomorrow from the 13 - 15 November. This comprehensive luxury, retail and trade event delivers a unique experience for serious buyers, industry players and international traders.

Expecting to attract over 15,0000 visitors over the five days, the show which has grown by 20% and will present over 520 companies from 30 countries plus a host of giveaways, promotions, product launches and trade seminars.

"We are delighted with the response on the opening day of the show" said Ms. Trixee Loh, Senior VP, Exhibitions and Events Management, Dubai World Trade Centre, the show's organiser. "The event does truly have something for everyone with jewellers from across the world showcasing their latest collections and designs. With Areeq Dubai opening its doors tomorrow, this is truly a jewellery lover's ultimate shopping extravaganza" she added.

With 12 International Pavilions from across the globe including Belgium, China, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Korea, Lebanon, Malaysia, Pakistan, Singapore, Thailand and Turkey visitors can experience the global jewellery market all under one roof..

Among the many firsts at this year's show is the Designer Avenue. Sponsored by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the Designer Avenue is an exclusive platform for a worldwide collection of high quality jewellery designs and manufacturers including Alfred Karram, Amanda Design and Bellina.

Other leading names such as Lex Diamond, Mahallati, Rosy Blue, are showcasing their latest brands as well as Dhamani who are displaying their exclusive Dubai Cut diamonds plus the Dhamani Swiss Collection and Mikoya Pearls while Rosy Blue have unveiled a new collection of diamond jewellery.

"While gold will never loose its shine, diamonds are getting more appreciated in the Middle East when it comes to buying or gifting jewellery. With rising prices of gold, the diamond industry will certainly in big demand in the upcoming years and we are delighted to unveil our new range at this years show" said Harshad Mehta, Senior Partner of Rosy Blue.

Also prominent among the local participants at the show is Damas, who have an extensive presence across all three sections of the show. As well as a host of in-house brands, Damas are showcasing a range of international jewellery brands like Faberge, Laurentia, Mikimoto and Roberto Coin and as well as premium watch brands such as Girard Perregaux, Parmigiani, Perrelet and Precious at the Damas Pavilion.

"The show has been an effective platform for keeping our clients abreast of the latest trends in jewellery and timepieces. Each year, this event is breaking records in terms of quality of exhibitors and buyers, which makes it all the more important for us to present a selection that would make strong impression" said Mr. Tawhid Abdullah, Managing Director of Damas.

For all those interested in learning more about the industry, a series of trade seminars and workshops are being hosted by leading jewellery houses and industry bodies such as HRD Antwerp, Bijoux Tec and IGI. Day one saw HRD Antwerp taking centre stage with a seminar titled 'HRD Antwerp: Your Blueprint for Quality by Mr Dirk Dullaert. Over the next two days visitors can also attend other sessions including colour enamelling on gold jewellery, 3D jewellery design and printing and instant gold content testing.

Jewellery Collections Dubai and Jewellery Trade Dubai is open to trade professionals, members of the media and the general public from 11-15 November between 4 pm to 10 pm. Areeq Dubai is open from 13-15 November from 4 pm to 10 pm. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.