Noora al-Ansari, a Qatari businesswoman, is making a significant impact at the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition, where she is competing with industry giants and defying conservative norms in her country. Ansari, the founder of Papillon, has become a standout figure in the wealthy Gulf state, where few women have achieved success in business. Since opening her first store in Doha, Ansari has faced curiosity from customers about her nationality but has received overwhelming support and positive feedback.
What sets Ansari apart is not only her talent and unique jewelry designs but also her personal interaction with customers. It amazes many to see a Qatari woman running her own shop and engaging directly with clientele. The encouragement she has received from customers has fueled her determination to continue pushing forward.
The Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition, also known as “the big Qatari wedding” due to its high anticipation among Doha’s society, has attracted over 30,000 visitors. The exhibition showcases the opulence of Qatar, renowned for its massive gas reserves and wealth, as well as controversial women’s rights issues. Luxury cars line up outside the venue, and renowned brands like Louis Vuitton and Bulgari display their designs alongside Ansari’s Papillon stand. Notably, a Cartier necklace priced at $21 million is among the extravagant pieces on display.
Ansari’s journey into the jewelry business is a testament to her resilience and passion. With a background in education and the oil industry, she designed her first solitaire ring in 2008 and officially launched her business three years later. In 2022, she relocated her store to one of Doha’s most expensive malls, putting her in direct competition with international names in the industry.
Being a female jeweler in a predominantly male-owned industry in Doha is a source of pride for Ansari. She takes the opportunity to educate her customers about the “four Cs” of diamonds, going beyond the cliché notion that “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” This commitment to providing value and knowledge sets her apart from other jewelry stores in the city.
Ansari has witnessed a positive change in the industry, with more Qatari designers emerging over the years. While there were only a couple of Qatari designers when she first started her journey, the number has now grown to at least 10 at the Doha show. Being a local brand among international names is an honor for Ansari, as it showcases their local tastes and high standards.
Noora al-Ansari’s presence at the Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition not only highlights her talent and perseverance but also reflects the shifting dynamics in Qatar’s business landscape. As more Qatari women venture into entrepreneurship and challenge societal norms, they pave the way for future generations of female business leaders in the country.
Useful links:
1. [Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition official website](https://www.djwe.qa/)
2. [Qatar Business Women Association](http://www.qbwa.com.qa/)
