The Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO) and Hyve have formed a strategic partnership to launch Shoptalk Lux. Taking place 27-29 January 2026, Shoptalk Luxe will be the first luxury-focused retail event in the Shoptalk series. Abu Dhabi is taking on the role of Host City Partner for the event.
Shoptalk Luxe will bring together the world’s leading decision-makers shaping the luxury and premium retail sectors. Hosted at Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, it is set to be the premier global gathering for the industry.
The Shoptalk event series ranks as one of the most important and innovative in the retail industry globally. Current host cities include Las Vegas, Barcelona and Chicago. These events connect experts and entrepreneurs from the retail and ecommerce sector. Topics of discussions include trends, technology and influences shaping the industry.
Shoptalk Luxe reflects Abu Dhabi’s status as a premier destination for luxury retail making it an important addition to the Shoptalk event portfolio. The event also builds on the emirate’s position as a culture, tourism and investment hub. Showcasing immersive experiences, the event readies itself to tap into an exclusive segment of the industry.
To enhance emirate’s retail landscape and capitalise on growth in the market, ADIO is collaborating with leading luxury retailers and technology firms. ADIO will also hope to harness advanced technologies to deliver curated consumer experiences.
Leading players from the $1.5 trillion global luxury market, which is projected to grow by over 10% annually, are set to gather at Shoptalk Luxe.
The Shoptalk team has confirmed Chalhoub Group, a leading partner in luxury experiences in the Middle East, as a launch partner for the event. More partners are expected to be announced soon.
The three-day event will host over 180 speakers from top brands in luxury retail, premium customer experience and retail technology. It is set to attract more than 2,500 attendees from around the world.
The event will bring together global leaders in retail and consumer brands contributing to shaping the future of premium retail. Attendees will hear from top brands and retailers driving personalised, elevated consumer experiences. Additionally, speakers will showcase cutting-edge technology and trends transforming the premium retail sector. The event will provide insights and strategies to help retailers stay ahead and adapt to emerging technologies.
Noura Alfoulathi, head of Abu Dhabi retail at Abu Dhabi Investment Office, said: “The retail sector is a key pillar of a resilient, diverse economy, both locally and globally. As consumer habits and expectations continue to evolve, this sector is witnessing a profound transformation in business models, product offerings, and consumer experiences, requiring retailers to adapt and innovate. By hosting this important event, Abu Dhabi stands at the forefront of these developments, poised to lead the dialogue among global industry leaders, innovators, and luxury brands.”
Mark Shashoua, CEO of Hyve, added: “Abu Dhabi is the leading destination for global luxury retail in the Middle East and it was therefore a clear destination for the expansion of Shoptalk. Our partnership with ADIO will enable us to maximise the launch to create a truly unmissable event.”
Sophie Wawro, global president of Shoptalk, expressed the importance of crafting tailored customer experiences: “Today’s consumers expect an elevated, personalised experience across all touchpoints. As the bar for customer service, personalisation, and seamless experiences continues to rise, Shoptalk Luxe is here to help retailers at all levels stay ahead”.
Abu Dhabi will host the conference to promote dialogue among global sector leaders, innovators and top brands. Adding Abu Dhabi as the fifth destination in the Shoptalk calendar also reinforces Shoptalk’s position as the hub of the global retail and e-commerce community.
