WJMES concludes, setting new record with over 80,000 visitors

Expo Centre Sharjah on Sunday evening wrapped up the 54th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show (WJMES), with exceptional success.

This year’s edition logged a record-breaking turnout of over 80,000 visitors, an increase of 7% compared to the previous edition, reinforcing the event’s standing as one of the most significant jewellery trade exhibitions in the Middle East and North Africa.

Held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the five-day exhibition featured more than 900 exhibitors representing major global companies and high-end brands in the realms of luxury gold jewellery, exquisite timepieces, and precious gemstones.

Among them were 90 new exhibitors from India, Mexico, and East Asian countries, who joined participants from several key countries including the UAE, Italy, UK, the US, Russia, Singapore, China, Japan, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Bahrain.

The final day of the 54th edition of the show was marked by the excitement of announcing the lucky winners of the exhibition’s exclusive prize draws, which included a kilogramme of gold in addition to valuable jewellery prizes of luxury diamond rings and necklaces.

Attendees also had the opportunity to enjoy a display of the “Meriet Al-Mustaqbal”, the largest gold jewelry set in the world, crafted from approximately 5 kilogrammes of 21-karat gold and valued at Dhs2.5 million.

Another highlight of this year’s edition is the world’s longest “Mertasha,” measuring 220 cm and priced at over Dhs 2.3 million. Both masterpieces were manufactured in specialised factories in Sharjah.

The exhibition featured standout participation from a select group of Emirati designers, who captured the attention of visitors with their innovative and distinctive gold and diamond jewellery collections showcased at the “Emirati Goldsmiths” pavilion.

Through this pavilion, a group of 20 talented Emirati designers, including the exhibition’s youngest female participant, showcased a selection of jewellery pieces and designs that are inspired by the UAE’s rich cultural heritage yet infused with modern influences and global trends. These included a collection of 3D designs and models, demonstrating the expertise and exquisite craftsmanship of Emirati artisans.

These Emirati displays led the “Emirati Goldsmiths” Platform, an initiative spearheaded by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry to support entrepreneurs and youth ventures, to make a significant impact at the 54th edition of the Middle East Watch and Jewellery Show, helping drive high footfall of visitors.