The 13th Heya Arabian Fashion Exhibition opened on Wednesday with a series of fashion shows presenting a collection of abayas, jalabiyas and evening gowns by leading fashion brands from around the world at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre.

The ladies-only event, held under the patronage of HE Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad Al Thani, also showcases the largest display of local designers to date with more than 190 brands participating in this edition, Gulf Times reported.

More than 300 brands of abayas and modest fashion designs from 18 countries are featured, including Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Turkey, Morocco, Lebanon, Iraq, India, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Ecuador, Hungary, the UK, Spain, and Italy.

Heya offers shoppers and visitors an assortment of unique collections, from high-street apparel, couture and luxury, to the latest modest fashion evening gowns, leather accessories as well as perfumery and make-up.

The five-day exhibition, delivered by Design Creationz with the support of Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA), is set to bring a series of fashion-centric events showcasing the latest in Arabian and modest fashion, as well as inspiring discussions on women’s empowerment in fashion and the arts.

Heya forms part of QTA’s efforts in empowering the private sector to attract and host global events. It also comes as part of QTA's strategy to support home-grown entrepreneurs and promote local events, in line with overall efforts to diversify Qatar’s tourism products and visitor source markets.

Some of the leading fashion brands which are taking part in the event include Dilek Hanif from Turkey; Liz Cardenas and Olga Doumet from Ecuador; Romani Design from Hungary; Debaj, QLabel and Ain Line from Qatar; Maison Chic from Kuwait; Anardana from India; Kristal B from Italy and Rida Couture from Lebanon.

According to The Peninsula, visitors can enjoy an hour-long fashion show today (April 26), showcasing the latest designs by Kuwaiti brands Gold Dust and Neshel by Najeeba; as well as Louver Line, Bride Atelier, ZR Abaya and Frames Fashion from Qatar; BKIB from Italy and Nourish Kareem from Malaysia. The fashion show will begin at 6:15 pm.

Guests can also participate in ‘What’s In and Out on Social Media’, an insightful forum by Omani influencer Areej Balushi as well as with renowned Indian Celebrity TV stars and influencers, Krystel D’Souza and Sana Khan at 7:30 pm where exhibitors and visitors can meet with the Bollywood celebrities and ask questions around fashion, style and trends on social media in the fashion industry.

In addition, workshops designed to support aspiring entrepreneurs will be taking place that evening by industry key players, including; ‘Quick Makeup Tips’ (5 pm) by Maison de Joelle, ‘Footwear Design’ by VCUarts Qatar (5:25 pm), and ‘A Success Story’ by Bedaya Centre, advising aspiring young Qatari entrepreneurs on their professional path (5:45 pm).

The Heya Fashion Exhibition is open to women and girls over 13 years old.

Image credits: heya.qa.