Dignitaries at the concluding function of 11th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition.
The 11th edition of Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition attracted over 13,000 visitors throughout the 5-day event, organisers announced at the show’s conclusion yesterday. Bringing together fashion enthusiasts and influencers, families and aspiring designers to discover over 250 local, regional and international exhibitors, Heya was declared a success by all participants.
This year saw the largest number of established and emerging Qatari designers over 100 booths in the exhibition, displaying the latest collection of abayas, kaftans, jalabiyas, evening gowns, veils and other accessories. Additionally, the show also received praise for its innovative idea to invite families to attend on day one, including husbands and aspiring fashion enthusiasts.
Beyond the unique shopping experience, Heya’s packed schedule of free-to-attend workshops, forums and fashion shows drew huge crowds seeking knowledge, guidance and inspiration. Industry experts wowed visitors on fashion and beauty, including ESMOD, a leading global fashion school, and celebrity makeup artist Joelle Mardinian from ‘Maison de Joelle.’
Ahmed Al Obaidli, Director or Exhibitions, Qatar Tourism Authority said: “The 11th edition of Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition confirmed its role in nurturing growing modest fashion industry in the region."
Al Obaidli said “We owe its success to the patronage of Her Excellency Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who with Her Excellency’s support, and professionalism and commitment of our partners, Heya has secured its place on the modest fashion industry calendar. I must thank the Design Creationz for ensuring the smooth operation of the show.”
Held at Doha Exhibition and Conference Centre, Heya proudly hosted in partnership with ESMOD, eight workshops that offered practical advice and interactive classes to aspiring entrepreneurs and designers, including helpful topics such as ‘Fashion Marketing’, ‘Careers in the Fashion Industry’ and ‘Fashion Illustration,’ amongst others.
Visitors were also entertained with daily vibrant fashion shows showcasing the latest collections from exhibitors as their designs were bought to life on the catwalk. Celebrated shows included displays from Jabador, Salma Manouri, Eriko and Alzaina Collection who wowed crowds with their Spring/Summer ranges of abayas, kimonos and gowns.
Speaking the participation in this year’s show, Nehad Ali, Anara said: “I enjoy taking part In Heya because everything is so well organised, from the help with catwalk shows to the things I’ll need to help me present my collections to customers. It is a very professional event with a good mix of brands which gives the visitor a very good experience.”
Among the 250 exhibitors on display at Heya, local Qatari talent included established brands Debaj, AishaZ Collection and Harlienz and the emerging brands such as Stylek Design and Sawsan Hafedh who were presenting their collections at Heya for the first time.
