Dubai has quietly, then confidently, become one of the world’s most important centres for horological enthusiasts – a transformation carefully guided by watch retailer Ahmed Seddiqi, which launched the first Dubai Watch Week a decade ago.

What began as a small gathering for collectors and watchmakers has evolved into a global meeting point for those passionate about timepieces – a place to explore the latest innovations, rare designs and the creative minds behind them.

Opening on Wednesday, the latest event of the biennial showcase moves to a new home at Dubai Mall’s Burj Park. The location – with views of Burj Khalifa and the city’s skyline – signals its growing stature, as does its scale.

Louis Vuitton is making waves with the Monterey, a pebble-shaped watch that revisits the brand’s first wristwatches from 1988. Photo: Louis Vuitton

This year’s fair is the largest yet, hosting more than 90 brands, an increase of 46 per cent that underlines Dubai’s rising influence within the watch world.

Rolex, Audemars Piguet, Chopard, Chanel, Hublot, Van Cleef & Arpels and Tag Heuer are among those unveiling their latest creations, from Chanel’s J12 Bleu and Tag Heuer’s solargraph technology to the brand’s newly released Connected Calibre E5 – the fifth generation of its luxury smartwatch collection.

“The increasing interest from brands and partners ahead of this year’s edition has been rewarding and humbling as we further establish the Dubai Watch Week platform and continue to propel Dubai as a global destination,” says Hind Seddiqi, chief executive of Dubai Watch Week.

Breitling is celebrating Sediqqi's 75th anniversary with a limited run of 75 Avenger Automatic 42 Night Mission watches.