MEBA 2008 expected to double in size

The three-day event, running from 23-25 November 2008, at Airport Expo Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is generating intense global interest, according to Fairs & Exhibitions (F&E), which organises the event on behalf of the Middle East Business Aviation Association (MEBAA).

"Business aviation in the Middle East will be worth around US $800 million by 2012 - double its current level as corporates and individuals increasingly turn to 'aviation-on-demand' for privacy, safety and corporate efficiency," said Ali Al Naqbi, MEBAA Chairman.

"This growth will spur commitment to MEBA and underline its potential to become one of the largest events of its type in the world."

Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed Al Maktoum, President, Department of Civil Aviation, Government of Dubai and Chairman of the Emirates Group, MEBA is being backed by some of the business aviation industry's biggest names following its highly successful showing in January this year.

MEBA has evolved from a one-day conference held alongside the Dubai Airshow in 2005 to a three-day conference and exhibition with a static park aircraft display.

"Global and regional players have responded extremely positively following MEBA 2007's impressive US$907 million declared on-site order book," explained Alison Weller, Aerospace Director, F&E.

"There have been heavy pre-commitments for sponsorship opportunities whilst we are working on new initiatives for the conference programme, including the addition of technical industry workshops following this year's delegate feedback."