The 18th edition of Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition opened on Sunday (December 12), featuring two introductory fashion shows and a talk show, held the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.
Qatar Tourism Chairman and Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive HE Akbar al-Baker, in the presence of various dignitaries, guests and exhibitors, inaugurated the event, which showcases more than 130 brands from GCC countries, India, Indonesia, Lebanon, Morocco, Qatar, and Turkey. It will run until December 17.
“Qatar Tourism is pleased to launch the 18th edition of Heya, which welcomes talented designers from across the country and region to showcase their one-of-a-kind products and fashion lines.
“This world-class exhibition is an important part of Qatar’s calendar of events, bringing together thousands of women to witness exclusive collections and the latest fashion innovation. I am confident visitors and residents alike will discover anew our authentic tourism experiences and Service Excellence in Qatar,” al-Baker said in a statement.
Heya, organised by Qatar Tourism and Qatar Business Events Corporation, forms part of the country’s vibrant calendar of events. This year’s theme, ‘Ignite’, underlines its aim of empowering female entrepreneurs in Qatar and the Middle East.
The introductory talk show featured Doha Film Institute CEO Fatma Alremaihi and Papillon Jewellery founder and CEO Noura al-Ansari, who highlighted the importance of maintaining cultural heritage while designing the latest trends in fashion.
The first fashion show, presented by the Embassy of Indonesia in Doha, displayed some of the unique works of three renowned Indonesian fashion designers – Mel Ahyar, Rinaldy Yunardi, and Rumah Tenun, while second showcased Al Hasnaa Signature’s designer line.
According to the organisers, this edition of Heya provides an opportunity for visitors to explore an array of local, regional and international designs. The collections range from
High-street fashion and haute couture collections, as well as luxury modest evening gowns and abayas, are on display at the event, which also offers a wide variety of accessories, cosmetics, and perfumes.
Heya and AlHosh Gallery at Msheireb Downtown Doha have collaborated for the first time this year, showcasing the works of local artists, and bringing together emerging and established designers. Such partnership aims to strengthen Qatar’s position as a major retail destination and centre for fashion innovation.
Nine talk shows – featuring fashion icons, designers, and leading personalities from education, fashion, and media – will be held at Heya, which continuously maintains its commitment to support aspiring designers and entrepreneurs.
The programme includes representatives from Bedaya, Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts (VCUarts), AlHosh Gallery, DFI, Printemps Doha, and Harper’s Bazaar Qatar, among others.
The event is also scheduled to hold eight fashion shows, including the two on opening day. Today (December 13) will witness three fashion shows by Haifa Alangary, Istituto Di Moda Burgo Qatar, and Qatar Tourism talents while the fourth day (December 15) will feature three fashion shows by AlHosh Gallery, VCUarts Alumni, and VCUarts Faculty.

‘Fashion for a cause’

Heya has endorsed ‘fashion for a cause’, partnering with Education Above All (EAA) which provides access to quality education for the most vulnerable and marginalised children. Heya has also partnered with Al Shafallah Centre for Persons with Disability, showcasing the talented designs of Al Shaffallah students in the exhibition.
The 18th edition has a range of partners, including Qatar Airways (Official Airline Partner), Education Above All (CSR Partner), VCUarts (Education Partner), and Bedaya (Entrepreneurship Partner), among others.
The exhibition is open from 10am to 10pm from Sunday to Thursday, and 3pm to 10pm on Friday. To ensure a safe environment and adherence to precautionary measures set by the Ministry of Public Health, attendees are requested to please register at: https://www.visitqatar.qa/en/events/heya.
 
 
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