Watch and Jewellery Dubai

The 12th edition of Watch & Jewellery Dubai (WJD), the Middle East's premier exhibition for jewellery and precious timepieces, was opened yesterday by Shaikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairman of the Dubai Technology and Media Free Zone Authority, at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC).

WJD, organised by Dubai World Trade Centre showcases the world's major manufacturers and distributors of jewellery and precious timepieces including local brands such as Istana, Damas, Dhamani, Al Anwar, Salem Al Shueibi and Samra and international big names such as Rosy Blue, Europearls, Chantila, Aspeco and Eros & Forever jewels.

"With the buoyant jewellery market in Dubai and the new features we are showcasing for visitors we believe that this year's Watch & Jewellery Dubai will be the trend-setting event for the region," said Helal Al Marri, Director General, Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of Watch & Jewellery Dubai 2006.

Visitors to the show will be treated to jewellery launches throughout the five days including the Middle East launch of Henry Dunay by Istana, the Middle East launch of the Rosy Blue retail collection, the first showing of the Dubai Diamond Cut collection from Dhamani, a new collection from Escada and the Chocolate Pearls' launch by Euro Pearls. Other showcases of interest include the 30-carat $10 million diamond necklace from House of Baguettes which will be displayed during the event.

The catwalk of Jewels hosted by Damas is also set to dazzle visitors on the December 15 from 7 pm and will feature jewellery brands including Al Manthourah, Legacy, Harmony and Romance and the jewelled watch collection of Varotti. Also on display is the Damas bridal collection catwalk on the December 16 at 6pm.

For trade visitors attending the exhibition, developments within the local and regional industry will also be highlighted, as WJD and Diamond Trading Company (DTC) jointly host the first Industry Round Table to discuss the emirate's important role in facilitating trade in the diamond sector from and within the region. DTC will also be organising three days of seminars and workshops.