Qatari designer Sameera brings heritage-inspired jewellery to DJWE 2026

Doha - Qatar's pioneering jewellery designer Sameera Al Mulla is set to showcase her brand Hessa Jewels at the 2026 Doha Jewellery and Watches Exhibition (DJWE) with her own dedicated booth, marking a notable advancement for her enterprise. /p

Having transitioned from participating alongside other Qatari designers in previous years to securing an independent space in 2024, Al Mulla views her return to DJWE in 2026 as a significant stride forward for her brand. /p

In conversation with The Peninsula, Al Mulla, who has over two decades of experience in banking, revealed her fascination for design stemmed from a desire to craft jewellery that narrates stories rooted in Qatari heritage. /p

"The return of my own booth in 2026 is another meaningful milestone for Hessa Jewels. It affords me the opportunity to fully articulate my vision and exhibit how the brand has progressed," Al Mulla remarked. /p

Founded by Al Mulla, Hessa Jewels draws extensively from the intricacies of Qatari life and traditional customs. Iconic cultural motifs such as the batoola, marwad and thobe al nashl are reimagined into modern pieces. /p

"I draw inspiration from familiar elements surrounding us... and reinterpret them into jewellery for today. My aim is for each piece to be exquisite to wear while bearing a tale about its origin," she elucidated. /p

Al Mulla's design philosophy has matured over time. Initially, her work centered on converting traditional symbols into wearable forms. Now, greater focus is placed on the narrative behind each creation and the refined details that impart elegance and practicality. /p

At DJWE 2026, attendees can anticipate two flagship collections. The Al Nashl collection is inspired by the elaborate beauty of the traditional thobe al nashl, while Al Lamma is inspired by the woven palm-leaf dining mat known as sufrat al khous. The latter holds personal significance for Al Mulla. "It evokes memories of family gatherings and the warmth of coming together around a meal," she explained. "Both collections celebrate different facets of Qatari heritage through contemporary jewellery." /p

Balancing tradition with contemporary appeal remains pivotal to Al Mulla's approach. She begins with a meaningful traditional element, then explores form, materials, and fine details, ensuring the finished piece feels elegant and wearable in today's context. A Qatari customer may recognize a familiar memory, while an international visitor discovers a facet of Qatari culture. /p

Looking ahead, Al Mulla's aspirations for Hessa Jewels revolve around steady growth and enhanced recognition. She aims to participate in international exhibitions and introduce more individuals to the stories behind her designs, while maintaining the brand's identity: contemporary jewellery infused with a Qatari essence. /p

Through her independent presence at DJWE 2026, Al Mulla reinforces the prominence of Qatari heritage within the global jewellery scene, offering pieces that enable wearers to connect with shared cultural memory in a refined, modern language.