Dalila Daffara is well known in the high jewelry circles internationally and I was honored to have followed her mesmerizing events in Europe. I wanted to discover her plans for Dubai ahead of the grand opening of The Unique Gallery, the city’s first permanent destination dedicated to high jewellery and collectible watches. Read the interview to learn more about what to expect and make sure you visit the gallery yourself to discover the state-of-art jewelry and designs.
Why did you choose Dubai as the home for your gallery after organizing jewelry events in iconic destinations like Milan, St. Moritz and Monte Carlo?
After establishing a strong presence in Europe, Dubai was the natural progression for us. It is a cosmopolitan capital that bridges tradition and the future, a welcoming city and a global hub not only for trade but also for lifestyle, arts and culture. By opening The Unique Gallery here, we are building on our European legacy while embracing Dubai’s role as one of the world’s most dynamic stages for high jewelry and artistic creation.
With such a global perspective, how do you select the designers and maisons you represent? What qualities must their work embody to be showcased in your gallery?
Our mission is to present only those designers whose creations embody true uniqueness. We see jewelry first as art — a form of expression that blends culture, heritage, and innovation. But with our experience in the field, we also recognize that art can be an investment. The pieces showcased at The Unique Gallery are chosen not only for their originality and craftsmanship but also for the enduring value of their materials and design. They are jewels that carry beauty today and retain significance tomorrow, both culturally and financially.
In your view, what distinguishes jewelry as mere decoration from true work of art?
In my perspective, the difference lies in intention and execution. Decoration can be reproduced, but true jewelry is born from inspiration and crafted to inspire in return. It is never mass-produced; it is often one-of-a-kind, created with the same discipline and vision as a painting or a sculpture. These are works that embody creativity, rarity, and cultural value — qualities that elevate jewelry to the level of art.
What kind of pieces can clients expect to find in your gallery — timeless classical designs, avant-garde art pieces, or a blend of both?
At The Unique Gallery, clients will encounter a blend of styles, each maison presenting its own stylistic signature — from refined interpretations of classical design to daring avant-garde creations. The common thread is uniqueness: every piece is conceived to surprise, inspire, and hold lasting value. These jewels are not simply adornments; they are works that can become part of a legacy and pieces that inspire storytelling, carrying both cultural significance and investment potential.
How do you see Dubai’s role on the global jewelry map today, and what unique opportunities does it offer compared to more traditional luxury capitals?
Dubai is no longer just a retail hub; it has become a cultural and financial capital shaped by vision, respect, and opportunity. Its diverse and expanding demographic creates one of the most dynamic markets in the world, where tradition and innovation meet. We are proud to bring maisons and designers here for the very first time, and to accompany them in discovering Dubai — a city that welcomes creativity, honors culture, and gives visions the chance to become reality.
What personal meaning does jewelry hold for you — beyond its material value?
For me, jewelry is memory made tangible. Each jewel is born from inspiration and created to enclose a special moment. When I wear my grandmother’s ring, I don’t just see a piece of gold and gemstones — I can feel her love, her presence, her story. This is what jewelry should be: not only adornment, but an intimate companion that encapsulates experiences and transforms them into something eternal.
Looking ahead, how do you envision the evolution of your gallery: will it remain a curated showcase, become a cultural hub, or even a platform for emerging international talent?
The Unique Gallery was conceived as more than a curated showcase — it is evolving into a cultural hub where multiple arts converge: jewelry, watchmaking, design, and even gastronomy and music. Our mission is to foster a community of collectors, creators, and enthusiasts who share a passion for rarity and beauty. Alongside established maisons, we aim to support emerging talents, offering them visibility in a market that values innovation and excellence. This vision comes to life in our calendar of events, with the highlight being The Unique Gala on November 8, where art, culture, and high jewelry come together in an evening of celebration and inspiration.
