What's next for Dubai Watch Week?

As watch enthusiasts, brands, and media join together in Hong Kong for the 10th instalment of Dubai Watch Week's Horology Forum, set to play out over the next few days in the heart of the city, Hind Seddiqi, CEO of Dubai Watch Week formally welcomed guests at a keynote speech, which served not just as a welcome to Hong Kong, but a look back at the last 10 years of Horology Forum, and some exciting information about the 2025 edition of Dubai Watch Week.

But before Hind Seddiqi explored the future of Dubai Watch Week, she took some time to reflect on past achievements. Over the years, the event has played host to around 60,000 guests, including representatives of over 100 media titles. Across six editions of Dubai Watch Week and more Horology Forum events, there have been an incredible 900-plus programmed events and more than 270 speakers and moderators — with many memorable moments of industry insight, as well as innovative experiential offerings over the years. In addition to this, the event has served to launch over 50 exclusive watch launches from dozens of brands. 

All this is proof of the meaningful space that Dubai Watch Week has carved in the global landscape of watches — a key moment on any calendar. Even more so when you consider that this Hong Kong event marks the third time the event has travelled from its Dubai home to London in 2018 and New York in 2022, with a digital edition in 2020.

However, Hind noted that the real heart of the event is the relationships and friendships formed — and the passion for horology shared by communities, enthusiasts and collectors from all over the world.

Looking ahead to 2025, Hind Seddiqi shared some important updates about the 7th edition of Dubai Watch Week, starting with the dates — the event will run from the 19th of November to the 23rd of November, and will excitingly, be held in a new location. In 2025 Dubai Watch Week will take place at Dubai Mall, Burj Park welcoming returning guests and new visitors in the shadow of the iconic Burj Khalifa.

Of course, while the location is new, the goals remain the same. The event will still be dedicated to providing a pioneering programme of engaging and innovative events and experiences, as well as creating initiatives that give back to the industry and help foster the next generation of watchmakers and brands. The good news is that in 2025, there will be plenty of space for the event to grow, with the event doubling its footprint to approximately 200,000 square feet, allowing for more brands, more guests and more opportunities.

Finally, Hind Seddiqi was happy to announce that the long-term strategic partnership with Dubai Economy and Tourism (DET) would continue to move forward as both parties continue to promote Dubai and the UAE as a global centre of luxury. Hind also thanked Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority (Dubai Culture), for her continued support and for granting her patronage for the upcoming event.

Stay tuned for more announcements about Dubai Watch Week 2025 in the coming months, but first, get ready for the 10^thedition of Horology Forum!