SCCI Concludes Successful Participation In MIDA Italy, Showcasing Emirati Talent And Craftsmanship

The Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) recently wrapped up its involvement in the International Handicrafts Trade Fair (MIDA) in Florence, Italy, which took place from April 25 to May 1. The Chamber's pavilion received significant attention and praise from both participants and visitors. This event served as a crucial platform for promoting the UAE's growing creative and artisanal sectors, helping national talents expand their reach globally.

Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Chairman of SCCI, led the delegation, which included Mona Sultan Al Suwaidi, Director of the Executive Office of the SCCI’s Chairman and head of the Emirati Goldsmiths Platform. Six talented Emirati women designers were also part of this group. The Chamber's participation was under the UAE Jewellery and Perfume Platform, an initiative supporting Emirati entrepreneurs in these industries.

The exhibition featured two specialised pavilions: "Emirati Goldsmiths" and "Emirates Perfumes." Al Owais highlighted that participating in international exhibitions like MIDA demonstrates SCCI's dedication to enhancing local businesses' competitiveness and fostering economic growth in Sharjah and the UAE. He stated that engaging with global markets allows local enterprises to diversify products and expand their market presence.

During MIDA 2025, the Sharjah Chamber delegation engaged in several productive meetings with key officials in Florence. Abdallah Sultan Al Owais met with Laura Sparavigna, President of the Florence Chamber of Commerce, as well as Lorenzo Becattini, President of Firenze Fiera. Discussions focused on cooperation opportunities in organising international events and developing innovation and tourism sectors.

Mona Al Suwaidi expressed pride in showcasing Emirati designers' talents on a global stage through the UAE Jewelry and Perfume Platform. She noted that this year's success at the Florence exhibition highlights significant advancements in craftsmanship among Emirati women designers. She added that future plans include launching a comprehensive programme to train more designers in these industries.

Workshops and Field Visits

The "Emirates Perfumes" pavilion hosted a workshop on traditional Emirati perfume and incense production techniques. Attendees learned about core ingredients and preparation methods, receiving positive feedback from Italian and European participants interested in authentic Emirati products. Additionally, field visits to aromatic oil factories introduced delegates to advanced fragrance extraction technologies.

Emirati female designers participated in expert-led workshops focusing on jewelry design and craftsmanship. These sessions provided valuable insights into international market trends, equipping them with advanced skills for innovation. Their collections showcased high-end jewelry and premium fragrances blending Emirati heritage aesthetics with modern global design trends.

The Sharjah Chamber's involvement at MIDA marks an important step towards supporting local creative industries while strengthening economic ties with Italy. Through such initiatives, SCCI continues to empower national talent by providing opportunities for growth on an international scale.

With inputs from WAM