First annual MID East power show heading for exibitor sell out

The event is heading for a sell out, with over 70% of exhibitor space already reserved five months before the doors open on Middle East Electricity 2003, in January, at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre (DIEC).

"We have once again received tremendous support from the industry and the demand from exhibitors underlines the critical importance of Middle East Electricity to the region's power industry," said Sarah Woodbridge, Exhibitions Director, Power and Energy Division, IIR Exhibitions.

"What is significant is the number of country pavilions which have received financial backing by governments who would normally demand support bids 18 months or more in advance.

"Although we did not announce the show would go annual until last February we already have national pavilions from Germany, the United Kingdom, Spain, Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Korea, France and Iran," said Woodbridge.

"Both Turkey and South Africa, who normally receive government support after the event, have also contracted space for their exhibitors."

Among the major industry players, who have so far contracted space are ABB, Alstom, Vestas, Global Energy, OEZ, Schneider and Tyco. "This is a major achievement. None of these companies had any idea when they were setting their budgets that Middle East Electricity would become an annual event. They have had to re-budget and re-think their plans," said Woodbridge.

"Once again it underlines how the exhibition has established itself on the global power industry's annual calendar of must attend events."

Middle East Electricity 2003, will be held at the DIEC, January 19 ? 21, and will, for the first time, include a specialist industrial and commercial Lighting Arena.

The Lighting Arena, running alongside Middle East Electricity 2003, has been launched in response to visitor and exhibitor interest, outlining the heightened regional demand for lighting products. Over a quarter of this year's exhibitors showcased lighting products while 38% of visitors networked with lighting suppliers.

The Lighting Arena which will focus on the latest products, including energy efficient and speciality lamps and ancillary equipment, is filling up rapidly with pavilions from Germany, UK and Italy. It will also highlight new commercial opportunities available in the rapidly growing sector.

Other additions include the staging of the 9th Annual Power Generation Summit, alongside the exhibition and a dedicated area for new and renewable energy.

Middle East Electricity 2003 is supported by the UAE Ministry of Electricity and Water and the Federal Electricity and Water Authority.