SHARJAH: Expo Centre Sharjah concluded the 54th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show (WJMES) on Sunday, recording over 80,000 visitors, a 7 percent increase from the previous edition. This reinforces the event’s reputation as one of the most significant jewellery trade exhibitions in the Middle East and North Africa.
Held under the patronage of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and supported by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the five-day exhibition hosted more than 900 exhibitors representing major global companies and high-end brands in luxury gold jewellery, exquisite timepieces, and precious gemstones.
The 54th edition saw the participation of 90 new exhibitors from India, Mexico, and East Asian countries, alongside key participants from the UAE, Italy, the UK, the US, Russia, Singapore, China, Japan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain.
The final day featured exclusive prize draws, including a kilogramme of gol
d and valuable jewellery prizes, such as luxury diamond rings and necklaces. Attendees also viewed the ‘Meriet Al-Mustaqbal’, the world’s largest gold jewellery set, crafted from approximately 5 kilogrammes of 21-karat gold and valued at AED2.5 million. Additionally, the show featured the world’s longest “Mertasha”, measuring 220 cm and priced at over AED2.3 million.
The exhibition included a standout participation from Emirati designers in the ‘Emirati Goldsmiths’ pavilion. A group of 20 talented designers, including the youngest female participant, showcased jewellery inspired by the UAE’s cultural heritage, featuring modern influences and global trends.
Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, noted the success of this year’s event, highlighting the increase in exhibitors and international participation, and underscoring its sustainable growth. He emphasised the event’s role in advancing the gold and jewellery sector in the UAE and the region, with exhibitors confirming their intention to part
icipate in future editions.
This edition also marked the debut of the Sharjah Business Women Council (SBWC) pavilion, which featured jewellery crafted by its members, gaining significant attention from attendees.
Among the most impressive designs showcased at the event were a masterpiece shaped like a winged Arabian falcon valued at AED4.2 million, a purebred Arabian horse figurine valued at AED3.25 million, and a lavish diamond set priced at AED8 million.
Source: Emirates News Agency