Wedding Arabia 2011 was a three-day exhibit collaborating regional and international talent at the Hilton hotel in Jeddah. It was organized by Al Harithy Company for Exhibitions with Turkel Fair Organization being a major sponsor. The event took place from Nov. 21 to 23 and showcased bridal wear and facets of an Arabian wedding through different participants.

Many of the exhibitors came from Turkey, and other parts of the Middle East as well as India. The main exhibitors were Al Shurafa Trading Co. Ltd., Ahmad Abdul Wahed, Citruss TV, Destination Jeddah, Nirvana, Palazzo Ballroom, Young Designers, Cambridge Diet Center, Silk Route Beauty Products, Fouad Sarkis, Beauty Care, Top Tato, Rania Khogeer, Al Amaml Center, New Sizes, Vestido, Donyati, Al Taqsheta Al Maghrabia, Wafa Ba Wazeer, Stones Décor, Arabian Flowers, photography by Samia, Siraj ladies, Ahmad Al Badawi, Alef Alef, Aramex, Rachel Mona Sherif, Al Banafsaj Fashion and La Fraise.

Most of the visitors enjoyed the experience of versatility at the event. Sheima Hafiz, 25, said she felt this space gave her a chance to find dresses, cutlery and technical support with camera professionals, as well as facilitated her exploration for home interiors. "I love the fact that everything is under one roof so I can buy everything for all my wedding functions." She said she was hoping more people showed up.

"Al Harithy has done a great job again with this expo. It gives you a chance to communicate and experience more talent out here," said Mohammad Faris, a 28-year-old artist.

"I wish more people came. There was not much awareness or the numbers would have doubled. I think they needed more advertising to reach out to more people," said Zaid Al Aboodi, a 43-year-old buyer.

Sadia Hashmi, a 24-year-old exhibitor, told Arab News that a lot of Middle Eastern designers came together to participate in the event. “I know designers from Kuwait, India and Turkey who are here. They all have designs that appeal to the Saudi taste, as they have merged our preferences with their traditions and ethnicity.” She said thobes, dresses and formal evening wear were a treat for Saudis, especially for those who come from mixed backgrounds and enjoy something different.

“A lot of my friends are half Indian, Turkish and Italian. I love the mix of culture, and I think this exhibit represents a union of different traditions,” said Ayesha Mahmoud, a 20-year-old visitor.