SBWC empowers female entrepreneurs at WJME 2025 in Sharjah

The Sharjah Business Women Council (SBWC) is taking a prominent role in empowering female entrepreneurs as the official Strategic Partner for the 56th edition of the Watch & Jewellery Middle East Show 2025 (WJME). This collaboration offers SBWC members a global stage to showcase their brands, connect with international buyers, and gain exposure in one of the world’s most prestigious luxury trade events.

Scheduled to take place at Expo Centre Sharjah from September 24–28, the WJME exhibition is the region’s largest and longest-running trade event dedicated to watches, jewellery, and luxury accessories. Since its establishment in 1993, and under the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce & Industry, the show has solidified Sharjah’s position as a regional hub for high-end luxury goods. Over the years, it has attracted thousands of exhibitors and tens of thousands of visitors from around the globe.

This year’s edition promises to continue the legacy, offering an ideal platform for female entrepreneurs to present their innovative business models, unique designs, and high-quality craftsmanship. With SBWC acting as a strategic partner, women-led businesses can now access an elite market of collectors, investors, and enthusiasts who are eager to explore the latest trends in watches, jewellery, gold, and precious stones.

A Platform for Women Entrepreneurs

Commenting on the strategic partnership, Maryam Bin Al Shaikh, Director of SBWC, highlighted the significance of the collaboration.

“Our role as Strategic Partner for WJME 2025 is a natural extension of our mission to empower women as key drivers of economic diversification and excellence,” she said. “This collaboration provides a world-class platform for our members to not only display their exceptional craftsmanship and innovative business models but also to engage with a discerning global audience.”

SBWC’s involvement ensures that its members benefit from high visibility and networking opportunities. Through curated exhibits and exclusive events, women-led businesses will gain access to potential clients, business collaborators, and industry leaders. This exposure is invaluable for brands aiming to expand their reach beyond the regional market and into international circuits.

The council’s support goes beyond mere exhibition space. SBWC is providing guidance on presentation strategies, marketing, and networking to ensure that its members can fully leverage the opportunity. This comprehensive approach aligns with SBWC’s mission to build sustainable and scalable businesses for women entrepreneurs across the UAE.

WJME 2025: A Global Luxury Event

The Watch & Jewellery Middle East Show has grown into one of the most important luxury trade events globally. Exhibitors from various countries participate to showcase premium watches, bespoke jewellery, gold ornaments, and rare gemstones. The event attracts designers, retailers, wholesalers, and collectors seeking unique pieces and exclusive collections.

In addition to exhibitions, WJME offers seminars, panel discussions, and workshops focusing on industry trends, innovations, and investment opportunities. These knowledge-sharing sessions provide participants with insights into market growth, consumer preferences, and emerging technologies in the luxury sector.

Industry analysts have projected strong growth for the jewellery sector in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with revenues expected to reach approximately $11.48 billion in 2025 and an annual growth rate of about 10.2%. Such figures highlight the commercial significance of events like WJME and underscore the value of partnerships that enable entrepreneurs to access these high-growth markets.

SBWC’s Vision and Mission

Since its inception, SBWC has been committed to supporting women in business, providing mentorship, training, and platforms for growth. By partnering with WJME 2025, the council extends this mission to the luxury goods industry, which has historically been male-dominated.

“Empowering women in business is not only about providing opportunities but also about creating visibility, fostering innovation, and encouraging leadership,” Maryam Bin Al Shaikh noted. “We want our members to see themselves as active contributors to the economic landscape, capable of competing globally and shaping industry standards.”

The council has consistently worked on initiatives that strengthen women entrepreneurs, including workshops on digital marketing, e-commerce, supply chain management, and brand building. These efforts complement SBWC’s role in facilitating access to high-profile platforms like WJME.

Benefits for SBWC Members

Participating in WJME 2025 provides multiple advantages for women-led brands. Firstly, it allows direct engagement with international buyers and distributors who are specifically interested in luxury products. Secondly, it helps entrepreneurs understand global market trends, enabling them to refine product design, pricing strategies, and marketing campaigns.

Additionally, exposure at WJME elevates brand credibility. Being associated with a prestigious exhibition signals quality, trustworthiness, and a commitment to excellence—attributes essential for long-term business growth.

SBWC members will also benefit from curated networking events, where they can interact with industry experts, share experiences, and explore collaborative opportunities. The council’s guidance ensures that participants can present themselves professionally, maximizing the impact of their presence.

Economic and Cultural Impact

The collaboration between SBWC and WJME 2025 represents more than a business opportunity; it reflects a broader cultural shift toward supporting women entrepreneurs in the UAE and the MENA region. By providing visibility, training, and strategic partnerships, SBWC empowers women to contribute meaningfully to the economy.

The luxury sector, in particular, offers significant potential for growth. It combines creativity, craftsmanship, and business acumen, providing a fertile ground for female entrepreneurs to thrive. Through events like WJME, women can showcase their talent to global audiences, secure partnerships, and expand their businesses across borders.

International Reach and Recognition

WJME 2025 has consistently attracted a diverse audience, with the previous edition welcoming over 66,000 visitors from 52 countries. Such global exposure is invaluable for SBWC members, many of whom are looking to establish a presence in international markets.

By connecting local entrepreneurs with international buyers and industry leaders, the partnership reinforces Sharjah’s reputation as a hub for high-quality luxury goods. It also aligns with the UAE’s broader strategy of fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic diversification.

Looking Ahead: Building Sustainable Growth

The SBWC’s collaboration with WJME 2025 sets the stage for long-term benefits. Entrepreneurs gain more than sales opportunities—they acquire knowledge, networks, and skills that can help them scale their businesses sustainably.

Maryam Bin Al Shaikh emphasised the council’s long-term vision: “Our aim is to create an ecosystem where women entrepreneurs have the tools, resources, and platforms to succeed not just locally, but globally. WJME is a milestone in that journey, but it is part of a broader commitment to female empowerment in business.”

By providing strategic support, visibility, and training, SBWC ensures that women are not only participants but leaders in the luxury industry. The council’s efforts contribute to building a diverse, inclusive, and resilient economy in Sharjah and the wider region.

The partnership between SBWC and WJME 2025 highlights the transformative power of collaboration. It showcases how institutions can work together to create opportunities, foster innovation, and promote gender equality in business.

For SBWC members, this is a chance to shine on an international stage, showcase exceptional craftsmanship, and connect with a discerning audience of buyers and industry leaders. For the wider community, it demonstrates Sharjah’s commitment to supporting women entrepreneurs and nurturing sustainable economic growth.

As WJME 2025 approaches, anticipation is high. The collaboration signals a future where women-led businesses are celebrated, supported, and recognized for their contributions to the luxury industry. With SBWC’s guidance, Sharjah’s female entrepreneurs are poised to leave a lasting mark on the global stage, reflecting talent, innovation, and excellence.

In an era where visibility and opportunity define success, SBWC’s strategic partnership with WJME 2025 ensures that women entrepreneurs are not just participants—they are leaders shaping the future of the luxury market.