Abu Dhabi to host inaugural Shoptalk Luxe as luxury retail leaders descend on UAE capital

Abu Dhabi will welcome the first Middle East edition of Shoptalk Luxe later this month, bringing one of the world’s most influential luxury retail platforms to the UAE capital. The event at Emirates Palace will convene senior executives and industry figures to examine the forces reshaping high-end consumer experiences.

“Shoptalk Luxe is a catalyst uniting the global luxury community to address what’s next for the industry,” said Zia Daniell Wigder, global president of Shoptalk. “By convening leaders in Abu Dhabi, we are creating a platform for practical insight and collaboration, ensuring attendees leave with ideas they can apply as the industry continues to evolve.”

Among the confirmed speakers are fashion designer Vera Wang, Marco Parsiegla, chief executive of Amouage, Daniel Grieder, chief executive of Hugo Boss, Philippe Zuber, chief executive of Kerzner International, and Michael Ward, managing director of Harrods. They will be joined by Julia Goddard, chief executive of Harvey Nichols, and Alexis Mourot, chief executive of Christian Louboutin.

The programme will address five core themes: delivering value beyond product ownership, deepening consumer relationships, redefining online and offline experiences, elevating search and discovery, and driving excellence through leadership.

Shoptalk Luxe launches in Abu Dhabi through a strategic partnership with Abu Dhabi Retail. The emirate’s cultural infrastructure, including Louvre Abu Dhabi and the forthcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, alongside its economically sophisticated consumer base, positions it as an increasingly significant location for luxury brands pursuing regional expansion.

The event will facilitate more than 20,000 curated meetings through its Meetup platform, connecting brands, investors and technology partners. Over 80 sponsors and solution providers, including Shopify, eBay and Snapchat, are expected to participate, showcasing developments in personalisation, omnichannel strategy and artificial intelligence applications in luxury retail.