(From Left): H.E Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, Director of Dubai Information Department, Government of Dubai and Fred Lam, Executive Director of HKTDC, inaugurating the event, in the presence of H.E. Abdul Rahman Al Mutaiwee, Director General, Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (extreme right)
TDC Executive Director Mr Fred Lam met Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, Minster for Economy and Planning of the UAE. Mr Lam and the Sheikha discussed the growing interest of Middle East and Hong Kong companies in increasing business ties between the two regions
Top models parade the latest Hong Kong fashion at Bastakiya in Dubai. Collections from designers include Arthur Lam, Bonita Cheung, Cecilia Yau, Dorian Ho, Hidy N.G., Virginia Lau as well as fashion brands Moiselle and Spy Henry Lau are highlighted

More than 200 Hong Kong-based companies exhibited stylish and award-winning products during the four-day event, attracting close to 20,000 buyers from the Gulf States, Iran, Syria, Russia and North Africa.

Speaking at the event, Hong Kong Trade Development Council, executive director, Fred Lam told reporters, "Many of these companies are already market leaders in the US and Europe, but the Middle East is still a relatively new market. Two-thirds of the companies are first-time exhibitors in this region. "

"Previously, buyers had to travel to Hong Kong to see such a wide selection of quality products, but with 'Hong Kong in Style' we're bringing thousands of products direct to Middle East buyers," added Mr Lam.

Highlighting Hong Kong's strength in design, manufacturing and export, the event focused on electronics, fashion, toys, homeware, watches and jewellery.

Exhibitors and buyers alike reported strong interest in the fair, which looks set to become an annual event.

Adding to the Hong Kong buzz in Dubai, a gala 'Hong Kong Extravaganza' dinner brought together 400 guests from Dubai and Hong Kong's business community. The Hong Kong-themed evening included Hong Kong-designed tableware and interior decoration, as well as contemporary Hong Kong cuisine.

The highlight of the evening was a sumptuous catwalk show of Hong Kong models wearing evening gowns and accessories by Hong Kong designers.

Mr Lam also met with business leaders, including the Minster for Economy and Planning, Sheikha Lubna Al Qasimi, the United Arab Emirates first female minister. Mr Lam and the Sheikha discussed ways to further increase bilateral trade between the two regions.

www.tdctrade.com/hkinstyle-dubai