The 11^th edition of Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition revealed a wealth of stylish, contemporary and modest fashion wear at its opening ceremony led by Mashal Shahbik, Director of tourism Events and Festivals at Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) and Esraa Abel, Design Creationz Spokesperson in the presence of more than 300 people including embassy ambassadors and VIPs at Doha Exhibition and Conference Center (DECC). Heya is now open daily for women from 10.00AM – 10.00PM until Tuesday (2 May).

Opening Qatar’s highly anticipated modest fashion event to a party of esteemed dignitaries, their Excellencies toured more than 250 exhibitors showcasing 350 brands, including Debaj, a much-loved designer from Qatar, Dar Naseem Al Andalos from Bahrain, Eriko from Japan, Elsa Baretto from Portugal and Isabel Nunez and La Condesa from Spain.

Debaj, and Anara presented theirSpring/Summer Collection in the Grand Opening Fashion Show followed by Amy Designs, Dar Taraf, Qmall and Vintage, who displayed a stunning catwalk preview to an enthralled crowd. For the first time, Heya was open for families who applauded the exhibition and explored a wealth of abayas, kaftans, jalabiyas, evening gowns, kimonos, leather goods and other accessories from regional and international exhibitors, including over 100 Qatari designers.

Heya today (Saturday) has workshops from internationally-acclaimed French fashion school, ‘The École supérieure des arts et techniques de la mode,’ or ESMOD, on ‘Islamic Fashion’ at 12:30PM and ‘How to launch your Fashion Brand’ at 3:30PM, followed by a Japanese Kimonos workshop presented by Chino Funeno at 6:15PM. Fashion shows start at 5:20PM by Farah Boutique, Utruj and Buttons Designs, at 6:50PM Jewyn by Eriko will hit the catwalk, and Joll Designs, Gold Dust, Jino and Palais Des Argano at 8:00PM. Visitors are encouraged to register in advance via www.heya.qa, or to see the full event schedule download the Heya mobile app.

Commenting on the successful opening of Heya, Mashal Shahbik Director of Tourism Events and Festivals said: “Bringing the world’s attention to Qatar, Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition caters to the growing global demand for modest and Islamic fashion, predicted to be worth USD 368 billion by 2021. The show’s growing success provides a high-profile platform and launch pad for established and up-and-coming local and Khaliji designers, while strengthening Qatar’s reputation as an emerging hub for business and tourism.”

Esraa Abel, spokesperson at Design Creationz who have delivered Heya to Qatar for the past three years, commented: “Witnessing such an eclectic mix of visitors coming to celebrate Arabian Fashion underlines the show’s reputation and continuing success. We are proud of the recognition and excitement Heya generates as it continues to mature. Enthusiasts don’t just come here to shop, they want to find out more about fashion trends and gain unique insights. Heya represents a blend of art, couture and luxury and a unique experience of Arabian cultural heritage.”

Visitors at the show tomorrow (Sunday) can take part in a ‘All About Skin’ workshop hosted by Maison de Joelle at 10:30AM, or ESMOD’s ‘Careers in Fashion Industry’ at 12:30PM and ‘Fashion Marketing’ at 3:30PM. Following this, Salma Manouri, Abadi Najia’s collection will hit the catwalk at 5:20PM, with Portuguese designers on show at 6:50PM and Guin, Alzaina Collection, Jabador, Waad Collection closing the catwalk at 8:00PM. At 6:15PM visitors are also encouraged to attend the panel discussion on ‘Uncover the Marriage of Textiles and Fashion.’

Partners for this year’s event include Qatar-Germany Year of Culture and Qatar Airways who together with Shangri La hotel and Adagio aparthotel are offering visitors special Heya promotional offers. Q-post, Qatar Red Crescent, Maison de Joelle, ESMOD, Guerlain Spa, Bonsai, Qatar UAE Exchange, Zahrat Al Khaleej, Ohlala! Magazine and Marhaba, are also supporting the show.

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QNE

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