Sheikh Ahmed to deliver MEBA keynote

Sheikh Ahmed will begin two days of discussion in which some of the world's most eminent business aviation experts will tackle a range of issues now impacting the rapidly developing sector.

"We anticipate debate which will clearly demonstrate how business aviation has evolved from an exclusive lifestyle accessory into a valuable, efficient business tool," said Alison Weller, Director Aerospace, Fairs & Exhibitions (F&E), which is organising the event in conjunction with the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA). "The panel of experts will put forward a compelling case for business aviation as a means of improving corporate efficiency."

The MEBA conference, which will run at the Airport Expo Dubai over January 31 and February 1, will tackle the industry from both a global and regional perspective.

The conference programme has been divided into two distinct themes," said Weller. "The First Day will be given over to 'Educating Users and Potential Users' with Day Two being devoted to 'Ensuring the Integrity of Business Aviation - Safety, Security and Efficiency.'

The speaker programme includes: Ali Al Naqbi, the founding Chairman of MEBAA; Captain Omar Barayan, Vice President - Operations of Bahrain's Bexair; Ambassador Edward Stimpson, Former US Ambassador to the International Civil Aviation Organisation and ex-President of the General Aviation Manufacturers Association; Alan Peaford, author of The Pocket Guide to Business Aircraft; and representatives of key mainframe manufacturers including Airbus, Gulfstream, Embraer, Raytheon, Cessna, Boeing Business Jets and Piaggio.

"In addition we anticipate panel discussions comprising civil aviation officials from throughout the Middle East," added Weller.

Meanwhile, F&E has reported intense international response to the MEBA exhibition which will run alongside the conference with Royal Jet of Abu Dhabi signing on as platinum sponsor, Lufthansa Technik as gold sponsor and Execujet as silver sponsors.

"Visitors have already begun to pre-register and over 60 exhibitors are confirmed from the Middle East, Europe, the CIS, USA, Canada and Brazil," said Weller.

Up to 30 aircraft - from twin-engined turbo-props to the ultra-long-range corporate jets - are to go on display at MEBA's static park from where exhibitors will conduct customer tours and demonstration flights.