Scottish Watches Podcast #679: The World’s Watch Theme Park – Dubai Watch Week 2025

Podcast: Scottish Watches
Episode: 679 – The World’s Watch Theme Park – Dubai Watch Week 2025
Date: June 2, 2025
Host: Ricky (A)
Co-host: Barbara Plumbo (B)
Guest: Hind Siddiqui, Director of Dubai Watch Week (C)

Episode Overview

This episode is a comprehensive preview of Dubai Watch Week 2025, diving into its exciting new venue, expanded lineup, community spirit, and world-leading status as the “Disneyland” of the watch world. Returning guest Hind Siddiqui, the driving force behind the event, joins hosts Ricky and Barbara to share insights, updates, and the ethos of inclusivity and creativity that make Dubai Watch Week unique.

The conversation covers the evolution of the event, tips for attendees, new features, and the reasons why Dubai Watch Week has become a must-visit global destination for collectors, industry insiders, and even casual enthusiasts.

Key Topics and Insights

1. Dubai Watch Week: Origins & Mission

[02:54]

• Founding: Established in 2015 by Ahmed Siddiqui, rooted in the mission to educate and create a collector community in Dubai.
• Growth: From 15 independent brands to over 90 in 2025; over 59,000 visitors since inception.
• Non-Commercial Ethos: Emphasizes appreciation, not pressure to buy, making it accessible and inclusive.
  • “We wanted to create an environment that's more welcoming [...] just like how you go to an art fair.” – Hind [04:28]

2. What Makes Dubai Watch Week Special?

Event Character

• “We always call it the Disney World for watch enthusiasts.” – Hind [05:55]
• Not just about watches: culture, masterclasses, art, community, and creative exchange.
• Unique access to top watchmakers, independent brands, and industry celebrities in an open, friendly setting.

3. Event Logistics & Accessibility

[07:05], [07:30]

• Free Entry: Completely free for visitors, including access to the main event and masterclasses (with possibly one paid, premium masterclass experiment).
• Affordable Travel: Alternative accommodations and flight costs highlighted (e.g., £550 return from Scotland).
• Inclusive for All Ages: Activities and masterclasses for adults and children; not just for seasoned collectors.

4. New Venue in 2025: Burj Park, Downtown Dubai

[17:33]

• Expansion Driven by Demand: More brands, more space required.
• Iconic Setting: Now at Burj Park, adjacent to Dubai Mall, Dubai Opera, and the Burj Khalifa.
• Double the Size: 200,000 sq. ft., over 90 brands expected, booths now able to have two stories.
• Enhanced Experience: Easy access to world-class shopping, dining, hotels, and entertainment for attendees and families.

Quote:
“It's going to be another iconic space of the city, a different vibe, bigger space, very close to a shopping mall... People are going to enjoy that they can come to us and then walk into the mall, or vice versa.” – Hind [18:40]

5. Exhibition Format & Activation Spaces

[21:55], [23:12]

• Exhibition remains atrium-like, airy, and “luxurious”—not just a “tent.”
• More activation areas for live demonstrations—artisans, craftspeople (e.g., cameo maker, typewriter art).
• Dedicated spaces for microbrands and niche independents (first time).
• Standalone booths and dynamic activation zones cater to both newcomers and established players.

Quote:
“You will see booths that have two stories and not just one ground level booth.” – Hind [39:22]

6. Brand Participation & Special Features

[37:23]

• Returning and new marquee brands: Van Cleef, Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Hublot, Chopard, Breitling, Tag Heuer, Chanel, Bulgari, MB&F, Ming, Le Fabrique du Temps (LVMH), Gerard Perregaux, and more.
• Brands experimenting with immersive storytelling, thematic booths, and brand activations.
• Special sections for clocks and clockmakers—reviving a past attendee favorite.

7. Masterclasses & Creative Hubs

[41:47]

• Multiple concurrent masterclasses with brand takeovers and hands-on experiences.
• Broadened range for 2025, including some aimed at children and families.

8. High-Profile Guests, Community & Watchmaking Legends

[29:36], [30:26]

• Open, approachable atmosphere: CEOs, legendary watchmakers (Max Büsser, Edouard Meylan, François-Paul Journe, Philippe Dufour), industry celebrities, prominent collectors, and even Hollywood stars mingle freely.
• Opportunities for clubs, international collector groups to meet, network, and collaborate.

9. Microbrands & Independent Watchmaking Spotlight

[32:04]

• New dedicated area for microbrands (“price point is a factor”), and emerging independents.
• Inclusive selection allows emerging makers to showcase alongside giants.

10. Beyond Watches: Family & Cultural Attractions

[42:34]

• Dubai as an all-encompassing destination: art, culture, shopping, food (including Michelin-starred restaurants), desert excursions, theme parks, opera, and concerts.
• “Dubai has everything for everyone.” – Hind [42:34]
• Special efforts to curate programs for kids, teens, and non-watch-enthusiast family members.

Notable Quotes & Moments

• On Event Growth:
  “We are officially global.” – Hind, sharing that collectors now book from around the world [06:28]

• On Inclusivity:
  “It doesn't matter if you collect G-Shocks and Timex, or if it's FP Journe and Roger W. Smith, it does not matter. Anybody that's into horology, clocks, or just has an enthusiasm for the collector community—this is for you.” – Ricky [47:07]

• On Community:
  “The most important collectors from around the world... they're always very humble, you know, and nobody knows them until you say their name. And they're walking around. If you know them, you know them. If you don't, they're there, they're free, they're enjoying their time.” – Hind [30:26]

• On Watchmaking Legends:
  “Everyone's there, and there is no entourage. You do not have security elbowing you out of the way. You are able to approach and express your gratitude for the crazy designs, the forward thinking that some of these people have introduced in horology over the past years, decades, and beyond.” – Ricky [29:42]

Timestamps for Key Segments

• [02:54] – Hind gives a comprehensive refresher on Dubai Watch Week’s history and mission.
• [07:30] – Entry is completely free; discussion on accessibility.
• [16:47] – New location: Why move, and what are the advantages?
• [18:40] – Details on Burj Park venue, proximity to Dubai Mall, city attractions.
• [21:55] – Exhibition space format, enhancements, and services for press and attendees.
• [25:51] – Craft/artisanship highlighted: cameo making and typewriter art at previous exhibitions.
• [29:36] – The approachable, celebrity-filled, open community atmosphere.
• [32:04] – Microbrand definition and dedicated pavilion for microbrands and independents.
• [37:23] – Press release run-down: star-brand line-up, immersive booths, special features.
• [41:47] – Masterclasses, activation spaces, Ahmed Siddiqui Collectors Lounge.
• [42:34] – Visitor guide for non-watch-lovers: Dubai’s cultural and family attractions.
• [48:13] – Kid-friendly programming, youth masterclasses.
• [49:08] – GPHG winning watches display confirmed for 2025.

Memorable & Fun Moments

• Wrist Check ([09:45]-[14:57]):

  • Hind: VintageRG special edition (women’s), gifted at last Dubai Watch Week.
  • Barbara: Two watches—Wind Vintage by True North “Vintage Rally Timer” (limited to 300, $400) and Breitling Top Time (dark green, racing strap).
  • Ricky: His own VintageRG, number 007/100, received at Dubai Watch Week—coincidentally Scottish like Bond.
  • “That's really crazy that I got 50 on my 50th and he got 007 and he's Scottish.” – Barbara [15:07]
  • This leads into a playful discussion of personalized, limited-series watches, and brand stories.

• Logistics Humor:

  • Ongoing joking about how luxurious the “tent” structure actually is.
  • References to previous weather mishaps and Dubai’s unmatched ability to bounce back quickly.

• “Toot My Own Horn” Moment:

  • Barbara holds the record for most panels moderated at Dubai Watch Week—seven times! [41:29]

• Dubai as Playground:

  • “If you’re a shopaholic… tourists also get their tax back when they shop in Dubai. And we have everything.” – Hind [44:37]

Conclusion & Call to Action

Dubai Watch Week 2025 is set to be the most ambitious and inclusive yet, positioning itself at the heart of Dubai’s most iconic locations, with participation from a record number of global brands, microbrands, artists, and industry names. The event is open, accessible, and designed for all—from seasoned collectors to whole families and newcomers.

Final Message:
“Please come, come join us. Any questions you have, write to us. We're ready to answer, ready to assist… just come and have fun.” – Hind [50:35]

Pro-tip:
Check the show notes for registration links, travel resources, brand announcements, Dubai city guides, and more.

Next Episode Preview:
Stay tuned for a follow-up episode closer to the event, with full on-camera discussion, detailed brand launches, and deep dives into the 2025 program.