Weddings provide more than $700 million of business a year to the Middle East jewelry industry according to the organizers of Bride 2004, the exhibition for wedding day organizers and brides-to-be in the region.
Managing Director of organizers IIR Exhibitions Jessica Sutherland estimates that up to one third of the cost of an average middle class wedding will be accounted for by jewelry.
“As much as $25,000 is spent on jewelry for an average wedding and that includes not only presents to the couple plus their own jewels but also members of the families buying jewelry for themselves for the event,” said Sutherland.
More than 10 jewelry suppliers are taking part in Bride 2004, which runs until April 15 at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre. — (menareport.com)
© 2004 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
