Mid East signage industry one of world's fastest growing markets

Organisers International Expo-Consults (IEC) say next year's show, to be held at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre from January 19 -21, will occupy 4,500 square metres at DIEC, compared with 3,200 square metres in 2002.

The substantial growth in the event mirrors that of the Middle East's signage industry, which is one of the fastest growing markets globally. Industry figures show that in the first half of this year regional spending on outdoor advertising alone rose by 27.5%, to US $58.9 million, compared with the first six months of 2001.

Although Saudi Arabia is the Middle East's biggest outdoor market, with a spend of US $22.27 million in the first half of this year, the fastest growing is the United Arab Emirates. In the first six months of 2002, the UAE market grew by 47.8% to $7.237 million, compared with the same period in 2001.

"With the fragmentation of other media, outdoor is now the only truly mass medium available in the region. As a result, more and more advertisers are literally taking to the streets to get their messages across," said Mohammed Falaknaz, Vice President, IEC.

Massive infrastructure development is also contributing to the regional signage industry's vibrant growth. Over US $17.7 billion worth of development projects are currently underway in the Gulf, including $10 billion in Dubai.

"The Middle East's signage market, which slowed in the wake of September 11, has come back strongly and the prospects for the next five years are very bright," said Falaknaz.

"Industry forecasts suggest the region's market will continue to expand rapidly for the foreseeable future, while the North African market, which is relatively untapped, will record growth for at least a decade to come."

To date exhibitors from 15 countries from North America, Europe, Middle and Far East, and the Sub Continent have confirmed their participation in Sign & Graphic Imaging Middle East 2003 that will see the debut of a dedicated arena for the fast growing screen printing, digital imaging and colour separation industries. In addition, the live demonstration zone for sign-making, laser technology, adhesives and graphics applications has been enlarged. The show will also feature a sector-specific pre-press area, as well as an expanded 'Global trends in POP, Signage and Digital Imaging' seminar.