WJMES opens with record participation, unveils world's heaviest gold dress

The 56th edition of the Watch and Jewellery Middle East Show (WJMES), the region's largest gold and jewellery trade event, officially opened on Wednesday at the Expo Centre Sharjah.

- Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Organised by Expo Sharjah with the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), the prestigious 5-day exhibition gathers over 500 local and international exhibitors, in addition to more than 1,800 high-profile designers, manufacturers, and industry professionals representing major global jewellery companies and brands. It provides a premier venue to explore exclusive jewellery designs and signature collections of luxury watches, rare gold pieces, and precious stones.

The opening ceremony was attended by Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI and Expo Centre Sharjah, along with members of SCCI's Board of Directors. Also present were Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, alongside senior officials, diplomatic representatives, and leading figures from the gold and jewellery trade sector.

The attendees toured the exhibition area covering over 30,000 square metres, where exhibitors presented detailed insights into their latest designs and innovations in jewellery and gold craftsmanship. They visited the stands of Al Romaizan Gold and Jewellery, the exhibition's diamond sponsor, and Salem Al Shueibi Jewellery, the platinum sponsor, to explore their exclusive designs and innovative jewellery pieces.

They also visited the “Emirati Goldsmiths” Platform’s stand, which features a distinguished group of Emirati designers showcasing dazzling collections of gold and diamond jewellery, all recognised for their unique and heritage-inspired designs that combine craftsmanship with cultural authenticity.