The 13th Edition of Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition attracted more than 15,000 visitors throughout the five-day event, a 15% increase from the previous editions.
Bringing together fashion enthusiasts and influencers, families and aspiring designers, the exhibition showcased more international brands of Abayas and modest fashion collections than ever before, with more than 300 local and international brands attending from over 18 countries.
This year saw the largest number of established and emerging Qatari designers, with more than 190 exhibitors joining from Qatar. New partnership with Bedaya Centre, along with previously forged partnerships with Virginia Commonwealth University in Qatar (VCUQ) and Qatar Business Incubation Centre (QBIC), provided visitors with valuable expertise in everything – from fashion marketing to finance, to how to get a fashion business off the ground. Adding depth to this year’s programme were collaborations with the Ecuadorian, Hungarian and Turkish Embassies to help nurture and develop local talents.
Beyond the unique shopping experience, Heya’s packed schedule – 11 workshops, five fora and four multi-brand show-stopping fashion shows drew huge crowds. The event showcased the latest collection of abayas, kaftans, jalabiyas, evening gowns, veils and other accessories as well as perfumery and make-up.
Highlights included a special appearance by renowned Indian Celebrity TV stars and influencers, Krystel D’Souza and Sana Khan who jointly hosted an insightful forum on ‘What’s In and Out on Social Media’. Omani influencer Areej Balushi gave exhibitors and visitors the opportunity to meet with the Bollywood celebrities and ask questions on style and trends in the fashion industry. VCUQ also hosted a series of workshops and forums that taught participants the basics of fashion design.
Heya was launched by Dr Sheikha Aisha Al Thani, and attended by over 60 representatives of various embassies in Doha. Closing out the five day event was an exclusive Awards Ceremony with the top two prestigious awards going to Al Khoose for the Visitor’s Choice Award, and La Cremerie for the Exhibitor’s Choice Award.
Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition was organised by Qatar Tourism Authority and Design Creationz. Proud partners of this year’s Heya exhibition include Qatar Airways, Maison de Joelle, Shangri-La Hotel Doha, Ezdan Hotel, IDAM by Alain Ducasse, Guerlain Spa and Violetta Events.
For more information about the 13th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition, visit heya.qa.