Even in the face of a diplomatic crisis that has engulfed Qatar for the past two years, the passion for luxury among Qatari consumers shows no signs of fading. The allure of high-end brands like Hublot has only grown stronger, with reports of sales nearly doubling despite the ongoing political turmoil. For individuals like Abdulla Sager al-Khori, luxury watches are not merely accessories but an integral part of their lifestyle.
Khori, a 36-year-old public relations professional and a founding member of the Qatar Watch Club, underscores the importance of luxury watches in complementing the traditional Qatari attire. What started as a simple time-telling device has evolved into a deep-seated passion that Khori hopes to pass down to future generations.
The recent Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition showcased the latest collections from renowned luxury brands such as Chaumet, Dior, Chopard, and Rolex, drawing in elite consumers eager to invest in high-end jewelry and timepieces. The opulent event reflected Qatar’s reputation for wealth and extravagance, with buyers splurging on multimillion-dollar necklaces, six-figure watches, and exclusive cars straight out of Hollywood blockbusters.
Despite the ongoing diplomatic rift with neighboring Arab states, Qatari consumers continue to indulge in luxury purchases unabated. Hublot’s regional director, David Tedeschi, noted a significant uptick in sales, indicating a preference among Qatari buyers to shop locally rather than in other Gulf countries.
Luxury watch expert Geoffroy Ader, present at the exhibition, confirmed Qatar’s dominance in high-end watch sales, pointing towards the unwavering demand for luxury goods in the country. While the Qatar Watch Club remains predominantly male, there is a marked increase in female clientele, with women accounting for around 40 to 45 percent of customers.
Amidst the political turmoil and economic uncertainties, Qatar stands as a bastion of luxury, where the passion for designer watches, jewelry, and upscale accessories continues to flourish. The love for luxury in the face of crisis not only showcases Qatar’s resilience but also its unwavering commitment to quality and sophistication.
For more information on luxury watches and jewelry, you may visit Rolex and Chopard.
