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"Index offers a truly comprehensive interiors industry showcase with the very latest concepts, and this year, in line with growing demand, we will also have an increased art section that will feature vibrant and inspirational work from around the globe."
As the fast pace of construction continues in the region and new hotels and residential complexes open on a regular basis, demand for interior products and services has never been higher. This, coupled with the region's rapidly growing population and ever evolving lifestyles, has led to increased demand for high quality, exciting and innovative designs for both commercial properties and private homes.
"Index continues to meet the challenges of the market and new ideas and innovations are always a key feature of the show. This year, for the first time, we are delighted to welcome exhibitors from Afghanistan, Bulgaria, Laos, the Republic of San Marino, Monaco and Finland. At Index, the region's key decision makers have access to products and markets from across the world, providing a truly global sourcing opportunity unrivalled in the GCC, Middle East and North Africa, " added Willis.
Recent reports show that there are in excess of 2,500 existing and planned projects worth over S$1.2 trillion underway in the GCC. In Dubai, around 15,000 new freehold units were scheduled for release into the market this summer and a Financial Times report estimated that the value of residential property due to come on stream this year is approximately US$43billion, up from $17bn in 2006. In the commercial sector, Dubai has over 24 m square feet of office space under development according to Colliers International, with an estimated 240,000 housing units due to be delivered by 2010.
No less than 35 national pavilions will be at Index 2007, including a new pavilion hosting Polish companies. Index receives high level government support from the main international markets as well as from important global trade associations, thus the show is able to feature world leaders alongside key local and regional companies.
In 2006 Index again set a new attendance record, welcoming just under 37,000 visitors - there was a 17% year on year increase in the number of trade visitors from Dubai and a total of 62% of visitors came from outside Dubai. The high quality of trade visitors with buying and specifying authority attracted to Index is unquestionable.
"Index is specifically designed to maximise business success and we are committed to creating an environment that brings together buyers and sellers in such a way as to promote every possible opportunity. We are constantly looking at ways to enhance the effectiveness of attendance, both from a visitor and an exhibitor perspective,"
said Willis.
Along with key interior designers, architects, consultants and specifiers from the region, professionals travel from Iran, India and Europe as well as other Arab States to attend the event. The show promises a wide selection of innovative, creative and thought provoking ideas from every section of the interiors industry - including contract and residential lighting, carpets and rugs, flooring, wallcoverings, art, frames, mirrors, furnishing accessories, kitchens and bathrooms, interior design and textiles.
"Index 2007 again looks set to retain its reputation as the definitive industry showcase. The proof of its effectiveness is clearly shown in the number of repeat bookings received during last year's show. The success of Index lies in its continual development and enhancement over the years and this year is no exception," said Bernard Walsh, Managing Director of dmg world media Dubai.
Index 2007 will be held from 1st to 5th November at the Dubai International Exhibition Centre.
Anne-Birte Stensgaard, Senior News Editor
