India stole the spotlight at the 55th Watch & Jewellery Middle East Show (WJMES) held from May 28 to June 1, 2025, at the Expo Centre Sharjah, Sharjah, UAE. With more than 87,000 visitors, 500+ exhibitors, and landmark showcases, the event confirmed its position as the Middle East’s largest jewellery exhibition.
India’s Prominent Presence
India, a global leader in jewellery manufacturing and exports, made a striking impact at the show through a dedicated India Pavilion organised by the Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC). Featuring 11 leading Indian jewellery houses, the pavilion was a celebration of the country’s unparalleled artistry, heritage, and cutting-edge design in fine jewellery.
According to Mr. Kirit Bhansali, Chairman of GJEPC, “The Watch and Jewellery Show Middle East in Sharjah is a key platform to highlight India’s design excellence and craftsmanship to a vital trade partner. Our continued presence reflects the growing importance of this market.”
Strengthening India-UAE Jewellery Trade
India’s presence in Sharjah aligned with the booming bilateral trade under the India-UAE Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Exports of Indian gems and jewellery to the UAE rose by over 60%, jumping from USD 4.95 billion in FY2022 to USD 8.04 billion in FY2024.
Record-Breaking Highlights
This year’s exhibition stood out not only for its scale but also for the remarkable displays that captivated global attention:
- Amaar Jewels unveiled a 108-meter-long diamond necklace, aiming to set a Guinness World Record.
- The world’s largest gold frame, titled the “Union Frame”, crafted from 21-karat gold, was showcased as a symbol of luxury and craftsmanship.
- A $1 million gold-plated car, displayed by a UAE-based exhibitor, turned heads and cameras alike, demonstrating the region’s appetite for opulence.
A Global Hub for Jewellery Trade
Now in its 55th edition, the Watch & Jewellery Middle East Show has grown since 1993 into a regional landmark event. Exhibitors from Italy, the UK, China, Russia, Japan, the US, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Bahrain participated. The show also featured workshops and networking sessions, covering design trends, sourcing, and retail innovations.
India’s impactful participation at WJMES 2025 not only highlighted its manufacturing and design prowess but also underlined the strength of bilateral relations with the UAE. The record footfall, groundbreaking exhibits, and dynamic collaborations have set a new benchmark for future editions of the show.
As the world of luxury evolves, platforms like the Watch & Jewellery Middle East Show continue to be critical in shaping the next chapter of global jewellery excellence, with India proudly at its forefront.
