Qatar to Host Hya Exhibition For Abayas, Kaftans

Doha, May 15 (QNA) - Qatar Tourism Authority (QTA) will host Hya: An Exhibition for abayas, kaftans and evening gowns to be held here at the Doha Exhibition Center from July 20 to 24.
Hya, the first exhibition of its type in the region, will showcase the latest designs and trends for abayas, kaftans and evening gowns from Qatari and international designers as part of the first exhibition of its kind in the region, the QTA said in a media statement.
While many associate these wonderful garments with the color 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 been always the same. Today, the abaya is a blend of history and fashion.
Designers from the gulf region have already expressed an interest in exhibiting at the show which will feature fashion parades and cultural elements.
Head of Organizing Internal Exhibition and Exhibitions Services Department at the QTA, Lahdan Ghanim Al Mohannadi said, "The QTA is organizing the exhibition after studying the booming abaya market in the region and what attracted consumers to these specialized and in some cases intricate items."
Al Mohannadi said the exhibition is open to all established and budding abaya, kaftan and evening wear designers in Qatar and beyond and urged them to visit www.qatartourism.gov.qa site for more information or to register.
"This exhibition will offer a great marketing opportunity for designers and local, regional and international companies to showcase the latest trends and unique Gulf designs," he said. "There are a great number of designers in Qatar and the region and this would be the ideal platform for them to gain greater exposure for their creations."