CABSAT 2008 to be largest ever electronic media and satellite communications technology event held in the Middle East

Scheduled to take place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC), from 4 - 6 March, CABSAT 2008 has grown by 30% this year. Showcasing the latest technological products and services, CABSAT 2008 encompasses three main industry sectors - Cable and Satellite Equipment and Accessories, Satellite Communications and Broadcast and Production.

Among the leading Satellite Communications players participating in the CABSAT 2008 will be Arab Satellite Communications (Arabsat), Electronica and Eutelsat. The event will also play host to a range of major exhibitors in the Broadcast and Production segment including Oasis Enterprises, Panasonic Marketing Middle East, Sony Professional Solutions and United Broadcasting Media Solutions. Meanwhile, eVision, Eurostar Communications and Technosat lead the Cable and Satellite Equipment and Accessories segment.

The 14th edition of the show, is sold out and will occupy more than 24,000 sq metres of exhibition space, providing professionals from the Electronic Media and Satellite Communications industry with a platform to network and discuss market trends, challenges, and industry forecasts.

Mr Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, DWTC said: "Over the past decade, there has been a tremendous growth in the Electronic Media and Satellite Communications industry across the Middle East, Africa and South Asia. This expansion, which is reflected in the strong growth of CABSAT, is a result of the liberalisation in the communications sector by governments, coupled with the explosive increase in the number of free-to-air TV and radio channels".

Mr Al Marri added that "CABSAT 2008 will provide global Electronic Media and Satellite Communications players with the ideal forum to expand their footprint in the region's rapidly developing market place which is set to move up to the next level with the introduction of advanced technological innovations".

Underlining CABSAT's growing importance to the satellite communications industries, the Asia Pacific Satellite Communications Council (APSCC) will be supporting the event for the first time. APSCC represents leading global satellite operators, service providers, manufacturers, launch services providers, telecom carriers, broadcasters and ground equipment suppliers. In addition to ASPCC, the event is also supported by GVF, Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU), Asia Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU) and International Association of Broadcasting Manufacturers (IABM).

Dr. Nongluck Phinainitisart, President of APSCC said: "As an international satellite association, APSCC recognizes CABSAT as the leading Satellite Communication event in the region. Our endorsement of CABSAT 2008, is a strategic decision as we wish to enhance our business ties with key players in the region's satellite industry and work towards building a stronger market for the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia."

Another first for CABSAT 2008 will the 'Knowledge Exchange', a key industry forum that will drive the communication and exchange of new and dynamic solutions and practices in the industry. The Knowledge Exchange will feature a number of industry specific seminars, conferences and workshops on the challenges facing the industry including the CABSAT 2008 Broadcasting Conference and the GVF Menasat Summit. In addition, the event will continue to offer visitors a dynamic range of expanded interactive components including the Radio and Audio Pavilion, Mobile TV Showcase and two award ceremonies in partnership with Digital Studio and Dr. Dish, to recognise companies and individuals for their outstanding achievements and contributions in the industry.

CABSAT 2008 will welcome trade visitors from 11.00am - 7.00pm from 4 - 6 March at the DICEC - Halls 1, 2 and Zabeel. Admission is strictly restricted for trade and business visitors. Visitors under the age of 18 will not be permitted entry. University students will be permitted entry on 6 March only and must be accompanied by a faculty member.