Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition, Qatar’s most popular showcase of abayas and traditional Arabian attire, will return for its 15th edition this month with a rich programme of more than 20 fashion shows, seminars, designer workshops and over 250 participating brands, in an exciting array of fashion and showmanship.
Held under the patronage of HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, the fashion event will be held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre on 26 to 30 April, delivered by Design Creationz and supported by Qatar National Tourism Council (QNTC).
The exhibition continues to be the go-to platform for Qatari designers to showcase their designs, with Qatari brands representing 70% of participants. This year’s edition also features international brands from 11 countries including neighbouring Kuwait and Oman as well as India, Lebanon, Morocco, China, India, Sri Lanka, England and Belgium.
Offering a unique flavour of Arabian heritage, the Spring/Summer 2019 show will see returning brands like Debaj, Harlienz, the Hammadies (previously Lamar), as well as new exhibitors Avenant, Ebru Aykas by Duygu Gume, Saouli by Karima Saouli.
According to Mashal Shahbik from QNTC, Heya is a great example of how business events can offer curated experiences that celebrate entrepreneurship and Arabian culture.
The show has provided an enriching event for lovers of Arabian fashion, whether designers, shoppers or businesswomen and we look forward to witnessing its continued growth in this next edition.’
This year’s exhibition is also in partnership with the Indian Embassy with designer Suneet Varma showcasing his work in Qatar for the first time.
One of India’s foremost couturiers, Varma is a name that immortalises glamour and timeless style. After getting his degree from Europe in 1986, he worked with Yves Saint Laurent in Paris. Varma will partake in numerous talks and workshops throughout Heya focusing on fashion design, textiles and sustainable fashion.
Varma said he is honoured to showcase his work for the first time at Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition and looks forward to engaging with the community while exploring the booming fashion scene in Qatar.
Design Creationz spokesperson Esraa Abel said the show this year offers the most diverse range of brands, dedicating a larger portion of the exhibition to regional talent, and all the while celebrating the Qatar-India Year of Culture.
Three prestigious designers – Pero, 3 clothing and SR – will also join the exhibition under the Indian Pavilion, while a special fashion show and cocktail reception featuring all three Indian designers will also be held under the patronage of the Indian Ambassador’s wife, Ritu Kumaran.
Numerous fashion shows, workshops and conversations with fashion icons are woven through the programme to ensure Heya continues with its tradition of supporting entrepreneurs. VCUarts Qatar, Tajmeel Academy Qatar, Qatar Business Incubation Center, and Bedaya centre will offer young talents valuable advice related to the industry.
Heya is open for women only except on the opening day this Friday, 26 April, when men can accompany family members. Children below 13 years old are not allowed in the exhibition. For more information, visit heya.qa. Visitors can download the Heya mobile app to stay up-to-date with events and easily navigate brands and goods on offer.