QATAR’S LEADING FASHION PLATFORM (Nov 12-18, 2015) 8th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition

The 8th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition, Qatar’s leading fashion exhibition, officially opened at the new Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre. The grand opening ceremony was opened by Sheikha Munira bint Nasser Al Misnad and was attended by a number of state officials and foreign dignitaries.

Sheikha Munira bint Nasser Al Misnad opening the 8th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition / Courtesy of Heya

Sheikha Munira bint Nasser Al Misnad at the opening of the exhibition / Courtesy of Heya

The opening ceremony was followed by the Heya fashion forum titled “The Theory of Aesthetics: Clothing as the Ultimate Expression of Arabian Culture and Tradition” featuring internationally acclaimed panelists Azin Valy (USA), Ludmila Hyman (USA), Zeina Abou Chaaban (Palestine), and Al Jazeera’s Jane Dutton as the moderator of the session.

The Heya fashion forum / Courtesy of Heya

The opening day was concluded with four exclusive fashion shows by Dar Naseem Alandalos (Bahrain), Almotahajiba (Qatar), Debaj (Qatar) and Cityzen by Azin (USA). Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition, Qatar’s leading fashion exhibition, offers much more in its latest edition with modern and high-quality Arabian and Islamic designs. Fashion enthusiasts, designers, industry experts, and visitors will be united for an entire week of fashion-focused offerings. Highlights include programs by Sheikha Hub World Islamic International Fashion Show & Forum Series (SWIFF) and hands-on workshops by Qatar International Design Consultancy and Glam Your Image.

8th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition / Courtesy of Heya

8th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition / Courtesy of Heya

8th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition / Courtesy of Heya

In a statement at the Grand Opening, Hamad Al Abdan, Director of Exhibitions at QTA, said “Far more than a fashion exhibition, Heya is a multi-cultural event, designed by artists and thought leaders, and woven with the thread of Islamic culture and heritage. This event, which incorporates panel discussions, workshops, fashion shows, B2B and B2C engagement platforms, is a proof point in Qatar’s journey to become a global hub for international conferences, conventions and exhibitions.”

Al Abdan added that this is an “exceptional time for QTA to be organizing an event of this magnitude” as the organization prepares to unveil the Qatar Business Events Destination Brand, an asset that is expected to give renewed impetus to efforts in developing Qatar as a top destination for business events.

The exhibition features leading Qatari brands such as Debaj, M Jay, Almotahajiba, Cube Abaya, Aldukan and Harlienz who will showcase their Fall 2015 collections. Numerous regional designers such as Soha Ashi (KSA), Ghudfah (KSA), Mauzan (UAE), R-Design (UAE), HF Hessa Alfalasi (UAE), Farfalla (UAE, and Dar Naseem Alandalos (Bahrain) will also present their latest creations in this edition.

8th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition / Courtesy of Heya

8th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition / Courtesy of Heya

Emerging international designers from Europe, Southeast Asia, and the United States will debut their creations during the event. Cityzen by Azin (New York), Lucia Russo Urban Couture (Milan), Edor Creations (Paris), and Dian Palangi (Jakarta) are among several leading international designers to be featured in this latest edition of Heya.

Cityzen by Azin (New York) at 8th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition / Courtesy of Heya

“We are very satisfied with exhibitor and visitors’ interest in the exhibition. Their high numbers are result of our team’s dedication to the success of Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition and our accomplishments in organizing the previous edition in June. Similarly, this edition sees growing interest from international participants in hosting various fashion-focused programs for our audiences. Design Creationz are very proud to be organizers of this prestigious and unique event.” said Jawaher Al Kuwari, Head of the Advisory Committee at Design Creationz.

With over 10,000 square meters in its new downtown location, the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre, Heya will showcase authentic Arabian fashion designs of abayas, kaftans, veils, jalabiyas, shaylas, and evening gowns from nearly 300 high level designers worldwide. Over 15,000 visitor are expected from Qatar and the region.

Serving as a one-stop shop for individuals eager to return to a stunning week of Arabian fashion designs; Heya has emerged as the leading event in the regional fashion calendar. It has become a true platform where designers can be united towards a global fashion experience. Entrance is free and the exhibition is ladies only. Visitors can register online.

More information about the Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition program, as well as a detailed event schedule, can be found on the exhibition website.