Top designers to showcase creations in Doha

The region's most talented designers will display their creations from abayas, kaftans to evening gowns at the third edition of the Hya (She) Exhibition to be held here from June 4 to 9 at the Doha Exhibition Centre. Organized by the Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA), Hya will see more than 127 showcase the latest designs and trends for abayas, kaftans and evening gowns from Qatari and international designers, expo organisers said Monday. The event will include fashion shows and demonstrations as well as the opportunity for visitors to purchase garments and other accessories. The third edition follows from the two successful Hya exhibitions in 2011, which saw thousands flock to the Doha Exhibition Centre to view the designs on sale and Qatar establish itself as a major player in the fashion market. QTA Head of Organizing Internal Exhibition and Exhibitions Services Department Lahdan Ghanim Al Mohannadi, said this will be the biggest Hya exhibition so far. A total of 129. exhibitors include 56 from Qatar, 40 from Bahrain, 16 from Kuwait, 12 from the UAE and 5 from Saudi Arabia. "This year we are gathering more exhibitors from around the region and especially from Qatar for the third edition of Hya, the amazing response to the two events held in 2011 shows us that there is a wealth of talent in designing and creating these sometimes spectacular garments, as well as a discerning public looking for new and unique designs," he said. The previous two editions of Hya saw many visitors from the region travel to Doha not just to exhibit but also to attend and see the latest designs. "With Qatar emerging as a favourite destination for travellers from the GCC, we have deliberately looked to bring designers from the region and North Africa to cater for this demand," said Al Mohannadi. "The exhibition is a great marketing opportunity for young and upcoming designers, especially those from the Gulf region, to reach a wider audience and showcase their talent." The exhibition, at the Doha Exhibition Center, Losail Street, will be open daily from 10am to 1pm and 4pm to 10pm.