Successful close to IDEX 2007

IDEX 2007 is about to go down in the history books as continuing the strong success of previous editions.

Frederic Theux, President of Reed Exhibitions Middle East, the organizers of the show said the overall global response to this year's show has been very positive. 'Certainly, in view of the fast construction timetable and the minor adjustments necessary whenever an exhibition of this size enters a new venue we are very pleased with the feedback that we have received.'

The overwhelming feeling conveyed by exhibitors to organizers was of sincere satisfaction with the quality of visitors and official delegations as well as the amount of business contacts generated.

BAE Systems experienced one of the most successful shows ever, with the new 600m 2 pavilion constantly busy with interested visitors, including a visit from His Highness General Mohammed bin Zayed al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces.

'IDEX is of strategic importance to BAE Systems,' said Simon Keith, Regional Managing Director Middle East, BAE Systems. 'Our customers in the Middle East demand the best. They are highly sophisticated, intelligent and professional - it's our challenge to continue to meet and exceed their expectations.'

'The calibre of delegations and visitors to the BAE Systems stand has been second to none, generating strong interest in the land, sea and air capabilities we had on display. IDEX 2007 has been a well-organised and structured event, and we look forward to returning to Abu Dhabi for IDEX 2009,' concluded Keith.

'IDEX 2007 has provided US companies with the opportunity to showcase the most technically-advanced products and services that they have to offer to the world,' said Lexa Lynn Hooper, IDEX manager for the Association of the US Army.

One company that made a substantial debut at IDEX 2007 was Caracal of the UAE. The small arms manufacturer signed several deals at the show, including a contract to supply the UAE Military and Ministry of the Interior with 20,000 pistols and another with the Bahraini National Guard.

Hamed Al Neaidy, CEO of Caracal said that the show represented an excellent venue for a new company to be introduced on the world stage. 'Our success here is linked to the great opportunity that IDEX gives companies to show their products. It has been a very successful show for Caracal.'

The show has been a success, and in great part thanks to the influential involvement of the UAE Military according to Frederic Theux. 'GHQ and the many hundreds of officers involved with hosting the official delegations have set the tone of co-operation and helpfulness that distinguishes IDEX. We look forward to enriching and furthering this relationship for IDEX 2009,' Theux said.