Dubai Watch Week Marks A Decade Of Horological Excellence With Its Largest Edition Yet

Dubai Watch Week, the region’s foremost celebration of watchmaking, returns this November with its most ambitious edition to date. Marking its 10th anniversary since its founding in 2015, the biennial event expands into a new venue at Dubai Mall’s Burj Park, spanning over 200,000 sq. ft., and will host more than 90 global watch brands its largest line-up yet.

Held under the patronage of Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, the seventh edition will run from 19–23 November 2025. The scale reflects the event’s remarkable growth, with a 48% increase in participating brands compared to 2023, underscoring its rising influence on the international horological stage.

At its core, Dubai Watch Week continues to serve as a platform for global launches, meaningful dialogue, and cultural exchange. This year’s programming comprising over 50 sessions expands beyond horology, weaving into Dubai’s broader cultural fabric with discussions that unite watchmakers, collectors, creatives, and enthusiasts.

One of the key highlights is the debut of the House of Horology, a new forum hosting more than a dozen sessions. The opening keynote will feature Rolex CEO Jean-Frédéric Dufour in conversation with Abdul Hamied Seddiqi, Chairman of Seddiqi Holding, in a session titled “The Time to Act is Now – a Note to the Watch Industry.” Another milestone moment will be the inaugural CEO Roundtable: Horology Edition, bringing together Georges Kern, Ilaria Resta, Karl-Friedrich Scheufele, and Julien Tornare for a candid discussion on the future of watchmaking.

The programme further includes François-Henry Bennahmias leading a provocative critique on legacy in watchmaking, two Arabic panels on Gulf luxury and family succession, and contemporary debates such as “When Labubu Beats the Birkin: Luxury in the Age of Hype” with Richard Benc, George Bamford, and Misha Daud. Creative innovation takes centre stage in “The Legacy Tension,” where Bvlgari’s Fabrizio Buonamassa explores the delicate balance between modernisation and heritage.

Beyond thought leadership, Dubai Watch Week will also feature hands-on masterclasses and immersive experiences. From lume painting with Wristcheck, to Gérald Charles’ dial hand-hammering workshop, to Bangalore Watch Company’s exploration of meteorite dials, these sessions invite participants to step inside the artistry of watchmaking. Atelier Wen will showcase traditional martelé techniques, while Hermès will curate a full day of exclusive classes. Complementing these are showcases by Van Cleef & Arpels, L’ÉCOLE by Van Cleef & Arpels, and dynamic dialogues with Audemars Piguet and the Dubai Future Foundation.

The Collector’s Lounge returns as a hub for immersive engagement, including a special display of Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons’ 75th anniversary editions, a tribute to the founder’s enduring vision and the company’s legacy of craftsmanship. Exclusive premieres will also include the launch of Man of the Hour, a new documentary series hosted by Wei Koh that delves into the lives of industry legends.

“Dubai Watch Week grows not just in scale but in purpose,” says Hind Seddiqi, CEO of Dubai Watch Week. “Our goal has always been to bridge heritage and innovation, connect voices across the industry, and inspire audiences to engage with watchmaking as both craft and culture.”

Over the past decade, Dubai Watch Week has welcomed thousands of visitors from across the globe, inspired collaborations, and championed both heritage Maisons and independent watchmakers. With its 10th anniversary edition, it firmly establishes itself as one of the watch world’s most important stages—a place where the industry comes together to connect, innovate, and celebrate.