Emirati Leader Inaugurates Abu Dhabi Jewelry and Watch Exhibition 2025

Abu Dhabi's 32nd Jewelry and Watch Exhibition opened yesterday with over 120 brands from 20 countries participating through November 16. The event showcases the UAE's growing position as a regional hub for luxury goods and creative industries, while introducing new sustainable jewelry practices and supporting local designers alongside international brands.

Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, inaugurated the exhibition at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The event brings together established jewelry houses, emerging designers, and luxury brands in what organizers call one of the region's premier jewelry and watch shows.

"This exhibition reflects the UAE's prestigious position as a global destination that combines creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation," Sheikh Nahyan said during the opening. He emphasized how the event supports the country's vision of building a knowledge-based economy while attracting creative talent from around the world.

The exhibition features participants from the UAE, Italy, Lebanon, India, Hong Kong, Thailand, Singapore, the UK, Turkey, and Bahrain. Organizers expect more than 7,000 visitors to attend, viewing collections that range from local artisan pieces to international luxury brands.

This year's edition includes 25 first-time exhibitors, adding fresh variety to the mix of local and international brands. Notable participants include Amwaj Jewelry, Salem Al Shuaibi, Al Anwar Golden, Rene Jawaher, Luxury Gems & Diamond Trading, and several others representing different segments of the jewelry market.

A new "Sustainable Jewelry Zone" debuts this year, highlighting responsible design practices in line with the UAE's broader sustainability efforts. This addition reflects growing consumer interest in ethically sourced materials and environmentally conscious production methods within the luxury goods sector.

The event continues two popular platforms: the International Designers Exhibition and the Emirati Designers Exhibition. The international section features unique pieces displayed for the first time, while the Emirati platform spotlights local designers and emerging talent from the Gulf region.

Hamid Matar Al Dhaheri, CEO of ADNEC Group, said hosting the exhibition aligns with efforts to establish Abu Dhabi as a global capital for business tourism, exhibitions, and conferences. The event demonstrates the venue's capabilities for major international shows while supporting economic diversification.

For the jewelry industry, events like this serve multiple purposes. They provide market access for smaller designers who might struggle to reach international buyers independently. They also give established brands a platform to test new collections and gauge regional preferences before broader launches.

The timing coincides with the UAE's broader push to develop creative industries as part of economic diversification away from oil dependence. Government initiatives have focused on attracting international talent and supporting local entrepreneurs in design-focused sectors.

Visitors can participate in exclusive prize draws throughout the exhibition period, with luxury items donated by participating exhibitors.