AFTER the extraordinary success of its landmark 40th edition, the region's most popular watch and jewelry show is once again set to cast its magic on jewelry lovers. The 41st MidEast Watch & Jewelry Show will bring global spotlight on the regional jewelry market and its celebrated passion for gold and diamond creations from Sept. 27 to Oct. 1 this year at Expo Centre Sharjah. "With the 40th edition creating a history of sorts for the regional jewelry industry and a fantastic experience for jewelry lovers, expectations are pretty high for the 41st MidEast Watch & Jewelry Show. We have set the bar higher for the upcoming show, with an extensive marketing drive, several special attractions and the finest gold and diamond jewelry from across the world," said Abdalla Sultan Mohamed Al Owais, Chairman, Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry & Expo Centre Sharjah. A special committee, headed by Owais, has been set up to chalk out a massive promotional campaign. The SCCI committee includes Second Deputy Chairman Walid Abdulrahman Bukhatir and Board Members Ziyad Mohmoud Khairalla Al Haji and Mohamed Ali Hilal Al Hazami and Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah. The show will be held under the patronage of Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and see participation from some of the best known global jewelry houses and designers, and feature National Pavilions, daily raffle draws and prizes for visitors. Some of the 500 participants who have booked their space are highly optimistic about the show, given that global gold demand has reached 2,336 tons through the first six months of the year, led by investment demand — representing a record 1,064 tons, according to the World Gold Council. The growing demand has driven the price of gold up 27% this year, marking the best first-half performance since 1980, and the forecast for gold remains positive, with the metal expected to trade in the range of $1,300-$1,400 at the end of the year. At the start of 2016, gold was trading at $1,060. "Though the market here is less price sensitive, steep price rises in the recent past have kept at least some customers away from gold. Now, less volatile prices and safe haven buying are likely to attract more jewelry lovers and investors to gold... and what better place than the MidEast Watch & Jewelry Show to mix your passion with pragmatism," said Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO, Expo Centre Sharjah. Besides one of the largest showcases of gold and diamond jewelry in the region, National Pavilions from India, Hong Kong, Italy, Lebanon, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and China will continue to be the main attraction at the show. Add to this the immensely popular daily raffle draw that offers amazing prizes to lucky winners. The show profile will include gold and diamond jewelry, cut and uncut gemstones, gem sets, precious and semi-precious jewelry, antique and customized jewelry and branded watches and clocks. The exhibitors will occupy 30,000 sq.m. of space in all the six halls at Expo Centre Sharjah, while close to 60,000 visitors are expected during the five-day event. The previous edition of the show had attracted 57,180 visitors. The exhibition timings will be from 12 noon to 10 p.m. daily, except Sept. 30 when it will be open from 4 p.m. to 10 .pm. There will also be exclusive ladies only timings from 12 noon to 4 pm on Sept. 28. The admission is free for all.
