The Jewellery & Watch Show (JWS), organised by RX, has announced the return of the prestigious Ebda’a Awards for 2026, with two new categories introduced as the celebrated jewellery design competition continues to expand its platform for creative talent.
Celebrating Over a Decade of Jewellery Design
Founded by renowned UAE jewellery artist Azza Al Qubaisi, the Ebda’a Awards have spent more than a decade celebrating creativity, innovation and craftsmanship in jewellery design, while providing a platform for aspiring and professional designers to showcase their talent and connect with the wider industry.
Two New Categories for 2026
For 2026, the Awards introduce Men’s Design and Bridal Design, expanding the competition to explore new perspectives and creative possibilities within jewellery design. The Men’s Design category invites designers to explore contemporary men’s style, identity, cultural influences and innovation, while the Bridal Design category focuses on multi-way jewellery, encouraging versatile designs that offer new possibilities for bridal wear.
The new categories build on the success of the Awards’ 12th edition in 2025, which saw the introduction of the Emirates Souvenir Design and International Design categories, further broadening the competition’s reach and celebrating diverse approaches to jewellery design.
Nine Categories Celebrating Creative Talent
The 2026 Ebda’a Awards categories are:
• Pearl Design
• Calligraphy
• Emirati Design
• Emirates Souvenir Design
• Professional Design
• International Design
• Men’s Design – New for 2026
• Bridal Design – New for 2026
• People of Determination
Across the categories, designers are encouraged to draw inspiration from UAE culture and heritage, the country’s natural environment, contemporary design, innovation and everyday wearability, creating pieces that demonstrate both creative vision and craftsmanship.
Azza Al Qubaisi, Founder of the Ebda’a Awards, said: “The future of design is shaped when we give young creatives the freedom to explore their identity and the courage to create differently.”
A Platform for Emerging and Established Designers
May Ismail, Event Director of JWS, said: “Every year, the Ebda’a Awards highlight the extraordinary imagination and craftsmanship within our creative community. At JWS, we are proud to provide a platform that empowers designers and gives them the opportunity to showcase their work to a wider audience. The introduction of the new Men’s Design and Bridal Design categories for 2026 reflects the continued evolution of the Awards and our commitment to supporting emerging talent as they explore new creative directions and build their presence within the jewellery industry.”
The 2026 Ebda’a Awards jury brings together established jewellery artists, designers, educators and previous winners, including Azza Al Qubaisi, Sheikha Alserkal, Noura Alserkal, Salam Swaid, Devanshi Parmar, Budoor Al Budoor and Naida Abbas.
This year’s awards are supported by IGI – International Gemmological Institute, Al Zahab Al Ahmar Academy, Institute for Inclusion + Accessibility / Access for All, MOCD – Ministry of Community Development, and The New Jeweller Magazine.
The Awards programme will also feature a series of workshops led by Al Zahab Al Ahmar Academy, FIA with Azza Al Qubaisi, Salam Swaid and IGI – International Gemmological Institute, providing participants with further opportunities to develop their knowledge and creative skills.
Through the awards, designers gain valuable visibility and opportunities to connect with industry professionals while showcasing their creativity alongside regional and international talent. The competition continues to provide a platform for emerging and established designers to develop their craft and contribute to the evolving jewellery landscape.
Applications Now Open
Designers can access the Ebda’a Awards Guide and application forms, including information relating to the International Design and People of Determination categories, via the official Jewellery & Watch Show website.
JWS 2026 will take place from 11–15 November 2026 in Halls 1–3 at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
