The Qatar Tourism Authority will today begin a five-day exhibition titled “Hya” to showcase stunning abayas, kaftans and evening gowns from Qatar and the region’s most talented designers. The first of its kind exhibition in the region, which concludes on July 24, will feature more than 140 exhibitors from around the region as well as promote fashion shows and demonstrations. While many associate these garments with the colour black, they are also personal expressions of creativity and individuality. The abaya has both a cultural and religious legacy which has evolved over the years, although the concept has always been the same. Today, the abaya is a blend of history and fashion carrying sometimes intricate patterns and handiwork. “We are gathering more than 140 exhibitors from around the region and especially from Qatar for Hya, the amazing response shows that there is a wealth of talent in designing and executing these sometimes spectacular garments,” QTA Organising Internal Exhibition and Exhibitions Services department head Lahdan Ghanim al-Mohannadi said. He explained that the QTA was organising the exhibition after studying the booming abaya market in the region and what attracted consumers to these specialised items. “There is a great market for these garments in Qatar and the entire Middle East and North Africa region. The exhibition will see more than 50 exhibitors including designers from within Qatar,” he said. “There are a great number of designers in Qatar and the region and this is the ideal platform for them to gain greater exposure and a new market for their creations. We are also expecting a large crowd of visitors for the event from both Qatar and the region,” he said adding that July is the perfect time to host the exhibition ahead of Ramadan and Eid. The exhibition will open daily from 10am-1pm and 4pm-10pm.

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