ABHA: Productive families in Asir province have abandoned old ways of showcasing their products in exhibitions, a fact evident in the methods used while participating in the sixth exhibition, “Up we rise with our products,” currently being held at the Oasis Center for Shopping in Khamis Mushayt

Some 18 women of productive families are participating in the exhibition. Fatimah Al-Zamil who took the initiative in Asir to promote productive families said the event is being organized under the umbrella of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities of Asir, the National Program for Handicrafts, “Barie,” the Tourism Promotion Council and with the sponsorship of the Bohairah Hotel.

The displayed items included gold and silver jewelry, incense holders, perfumes, accessories, food, packaging, canning, leather products, spices and nuts.

She said participants have been trained to showcase products in innovative methods to make the display impressive and interesting. The overwhelming response received by the expo with more than 5,000 visitors daily, she said. There is a section for designer jewelries studded with diamonds, pearl bangles and hand-made necklaces.

Another participant, Dina Qahtani displayed innovative packaging for gifts, spices, juices, nuts and gifts for children. Khyar Al-Shahrani offered painting on all household utensils such as cups, which is popular among visitors. Elham Rumaihi invested her artistic talent in making preparations for events, while Raddah Al-Rayyan designed abayas of her own brand. Aterah Al-Ahmari is a maker of coffee and spices which are displayed with a distinctive packaging style.

Al-Zamil said she planned to organize a tent for productive families during Ramadan and also participate in the Abha Shopping Festival. She also suggested that a center be created to train productive families to develop their skills to make an entry to the investment market.