Prime Minister inaugurates DJWE

CATHERINE W GICHUKI Doha Prime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani inaugurated the 18th edition of Doha J...

CATHERINE W GICHUKIDohaPrime Minister and Minister of Interior HE Sheikh Khalid bin Khalifa bin Abdulaziz Al Thani inaugurated the 18th edition of Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition (DJWE) at Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) on Monday.The PM toured the pavilions of Qatari and international companies and looked at the most innovative designs of jewellery, watches and rare gemstones.The PM also visited the Qatari designers’ pavilion, where he was briefed on their most prominent creations in designing modern jewellery and precious stones inspired by the Qatari heritage. The 18th edition of the DJWE got off to a glamorous start with Bollywood superstar Alia Bhatt joining the opening ceremony as the face of the QT’s promotional campaign for the event. The campaign is projected to resonate with jewellery aficionados as well as enhancing Qatar’s position as a luxury destination. Owned by Qatar Tourism, the most anticipated exhibition in Qatar’s annual calendar of business events will celebrate luxury and glamour.The expo features an extensive display of classic and contemporary luxury collections by internationally-recognised brands and designers as well as local designers, featuring more than 500 brands from over 10 countries.For the first time, DJWE will host luxury fashion house Louis Vuitton, French jeweller Lorenz Bäumer and Italian watchmaker Gagà Milano. Famed French department store and brand, Printemps, will also participate, paving the way for its debut in Qatar later this year when the 150-year rich label will open its first ever store outside of France. In a statement, Chairman of Qatar Tourism and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker said, “For nearly two decades, DJWE has successfully attracted a growing number of global luxury brands and industry experts, cementing its position as the only business-to-consumer show of its kind in the region, directly connecting brands with customers.”“As the global tourism and travel sector works on its recovery from the events of the past two years, hosting DJWE is particularly special this year as we can once again welcome customers from around the world for this spectacular event. Exhibitions such as DJWE serve to energise multiple private sector players such as travel, hospitality, food & beverage, retail, and event organisers.”The glittery exhibition promises to provide international, regional, and local brands a networking platform for companies and visitors in Qatar. In addition, DJWE’s workshops and sideline events are designed to allow industry experts and specialists to connect with buyers and learn more about the preferences of their customers in the region. The Gems and Metals Calibration Lab will also be present to guide buyers and raise awareness on the importance of grading diamonds, tackling fraud, and purchasing products that adhere to international standards.Bringing new brands, limited edition collections and extraordinary showpieces, this year’s big nine include AlFardan Jewellery, Ali Bin Ali Luxury, Al Majed Jewellery, Al Muftah Jewellery, Amiri Gems, Blue Salon, Bvlgari, Fifty One East and Louis Vuitton. In addition, as the country gears up to host the first ever World Cup tournament in the Middle East, Al Majed Jewellery has been named the official luxury jewellery and accessories maker for the FIFA World Cup 2022. Its special collection of football-inspired pieces will be revealed for the first time ever at DJWE.More to that as part of for the fifth year running, Qatar Tourism’s efforts to nurture local talent and creativity, DJWE has dedicated space for 10 Qatari designers where local designers and entrepreneurs will be showcasing their products alongside some of the most established names in the industry. In addition, In celebration of the long history of craftsmanship, trade and influence enjoyed by Turkish and Indian jewellers in the region, this year’s DJWE returns with a dedicated space for brands from both countries. Following on the success of earlier editions, the Turkish and Indian pavilions are back for the second and third time respectively. This year’s edition of DJWE is supported by Qatar National Bank (QNB) as the Official Sponsor; Qatar Airways as the Official Airline Partner; and AlFardan Automotive as the Official Car Sponsor.Visitors are invited to the exhibition free of charge once registered via www.djwe.qa the official DJWE website.