Vision-X Dubai 2008 draws international specialists

The event, which runs from 18-20 February at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, has major national pavilions from Italy and Germany this year, displaying a range of the latest fashions and innovations in eyewear and eye care.

Exhibitors and visitors on the first day have responded positively to the decision by organiser Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) to segment the show into two specific industry areas, Vision-Lifestyle for fashion and Vision-Opticare for medical and technical professionals.

Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, DWTC, said:

'This year's Vision-X Dubai has been tailored to meet the needs of the industry, offering a number of value-add events including the region's first dedicated conference for Optometrists and the first-ever Vision-X Fashion Show. We are very encouraged by the strong support of our exhibitors for these new features, and anticipate a strong response from visitors.'

Organisers report enthusiastic opening and high visitor attendance on the first day, demonstrating the dynamism of the optical and ophthalmic industries in the Middle East and wider region.

'The evolution of Vision-X Dubai as a trade platform reflects the ongoing development of the industry as a whole, as both the fashion and healthcare sectors continue to offer a wider, more diverse range of products and treatments,' said Peter Frankenstein, Manager of Consumer Optics & Spokesperson for SPECTARIS, part of the German pavilion, the largest national pavilion at the show.

In particular, the inaugural Vision-X Dubai Fashion Show drew an impressive and appreciative crowd. Among the highlights were displays from Egma Lens Factory, presenting Porsche Design and Rodenstock; Euphoria Trading presenting Puma and Lacoste; PMI showcasing Davinci, Venecia, Rudy Project and Serengeti Eyewear; and Maui Jim presenting Maui Jim Sunglasses.

Healthcare issues surrounding eye care and best practice will be tackled at the Vision-X Dubai Conference, taking place on 19-20 February, which is co-organised by DWTC and the Emirates Medical Association Ophthalmic Society (EMAOS). The event is the first in the region to focus entirely on key issues for Optometrists and mid- eye level care providers.

Topics covered by the conference include a keynote speech from Dr. John Steile, Chief Optometrist, Al Magrabi Eye Hospital on the future direction of Optometry. The Conference will feature scientific sessions on conditions ranging from ocular surface disease, Astigmatism, binocular vision and low vision. All attendees will be accredited with a 'Certificate of Continuing Medical Education'.

A dedicated eye test station at Vision-X Dubai will also offer the latest in diagnostic technology, providing eye examinations free of charge to all trade visitors and members of the general public.