The Middle Eastern Jewelers Redefining Global Luxury with Craftsmanship and Innovation
Middle Eastern jewelers are crafting a new era in the jewelry industry, fueled by exceptional craftsmanship, creativity, and innovation. Known for their outstanding designs and high-quality creations, they continue to expand globally, leveraging their expertise and resources to secure a bright future.
The 2024 Dubai Jewellery, Gem & Technology Exhibition (JGTD), scheduled from November 12–14 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, will spotlight the region's thriving jewelry industry. Co-organized by Informa Markets Jewellery and the Italian Exhibition Group, this highly anticipated event will feature over 350 exhibitors from 25+ countries, showcasing new collections and innovations.
Au Finja: Leading the Way in Craftsmanship and Sustainability
Founded in 1997 with just two employees and a refurbished machine, Dubai-based Au Finja has become one of the region's largest and most innovative jewelry manufacturers. The company specializes in CNC-machined jewelry, producing bracelets, rings, cufflinks, and traditional Kadas (thick gold bangles). Their designs utilize 14K to 22K gold, platinum, and diamonds.
With four production facilities across the UAE, India, Oman, and Germany, Au Finja serves a global clientele spanning North America, Europe, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific. Key collections like Kavach Kadas, YuMe Link Bracelets, and the YuMe 360 Rings reflect the brand’s ability to blend timeless craftsmanship with modern design.
In 2022, Au Finja celebrated 25 years of its Mumbai facility and launched a 27,000-square-foot plant in Oman, capable of processing over 5 tons of gold annually. The company remains committed to sustainability, leveraging technology to address challenges like fluctuating gold, platinum, and diamond prices.
“Our resilience, foresight, and commitment to sustainability position us for tremendous opportunities in 2025,” says founder Ajay Sobhraj, a key member of the Dubai Jewellery Group (DJG). Sobhraj credits Dubai’s strategic location as a global trade hub for Au Finja's seamless connections with major markets in the Middle East, Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Antoine Hakim: Tradition Meets Global Expansion
Founded in 1940 by Joe Hakim’s grandfather, Lebanese high jewelry brand Antoine Hakim has consistently combined traditional craftsmanship with innovation to explore new markets. The company primarily serves the Middle East, focusing on Qatar, Kuwait, and Bahrain.
To expand its global reach, Antoine Hakim participated in the Hong Kong Jewellery & Gem Fair in 2019, where it received overwhelming praise from international buyers. “Our goal is to increase visibility in China, Hong Kong, the Philippines, and Taiwan,” says Joe Hakim.
The brand observed distinct regional preferences:
- Asian buyers favor small, intricately designed pieces.
- Middle Eastern clients prefer larger, gemstone-encrusted jewelry.
During the pandemic, Antoine Hakim relied on strong partnerships to fulfill orders from Europe and certain Middle Eastern regions. “Trust and collaboration are our competitive advantages,” says Joe. With 85 years of history, the brand continues to attract buyers for its exquisite craftsmanship.
Looking ahead, Antoine Hakim plans to expand into the U.S. market by 2025, citing strong interest from American buyers at the Hong Kong fair. The company also plans to focus more on gold jewelry, introducing new designs tailored to the global trend for gold’s timeless appeal.