Middle East is a growing market for global broadcasting industries

The highest number of channel types, were the private sector general channels at 56, followed by music channels which totalled 54 and government-owned general channels at 38.

In line with this tremendous growth, the region's largest event for the Electronics Media & Satellite Communications industry, CABSAT returns in March. The event brings together major players and regional buyers to discuss, debate and do business. CABSAT 2008 takes place at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from March 4 - 6 and will host a range of leading industry players from the broadcast sector including Harris, Oasis Enterprise, Panasonic, SONY & United Broadcast Media Solutions.

According to the report, UAE hosts the highest number of channels with 22.2% of the total channels on Arabsat, Nilesat and Noorsat. Saudi Arabia and Egypt follow the UAE with 15.4% and 11.6% of the channels respectively. In line with the liberalisation of the Electronic Media sectors in the region, the number of private satellite channels exceeds the number of government owned channels: Around 71% of the total FTA satellite channels are owned by private entities.

Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General of the Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of CABSAT 2008 said of the findings:

'The liberalisation of the media sector in the region and private investment in the industry, are the main reasons behind the tremendous growth we are witnessing today in the broadcasting industry.'

'This growth is mirrored in the increased number of participants at CABSAT 2008, which covers the entire spectrum of the Electronic Media from production, post production, transmission and displays. We are pleased that major international broadcasting manufacturers, distributors & system integrators supported the event relentlessly and we look forward to another exciting exhibition', Al Marri, added.

CABSAT 2008 is endorsed by international industry associations including Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU), Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU), Asia Pacific Satellite Communications Council (APSCC), GVF and International Association of Broadcasting Manufacturers (IABM).

Roger Crumpton, CEO of International Association of Broadcasting Manufacturers (IABM), said: 'The annual growth of CABSAT reflects the growing worldwide market for broadcast and media technology products and services. Each year, more and more supply side businesses use CABSAT to showcase their capability and to meet partners and prospective customers in the Gulf states. The show is an important landmark in the global calendar and the region, and symbolises many of the changing issues that are impacting the sector.'

One of the many highlights at CABSAT 2008 addressing the boom in the broadcasting sector, is the CABSAT 2008 Broadcasting Conference, a free event for industry players to attend and examine the paradigm shift to digital technologies. The conference aims to provide participants with a forum to exchange views and experiences relating to launching digital television. Real-life experiences and requisite information will also be shared, to address the lack of sufficient information and understanding of the technology and financial impact on the digital transition. Topics under discussion include HDTV, Mobile TV, IPTV, Archiving, Asset Management and many more.

CABSAT also encompasses two other key areas - Satellite Communications and Cable and Satellite equipment and accessories. Additional show highlights include HD Studio 'Live' featuring the processes of production and post production, a Display Area showcasing outdoor products like satellite dishes in addition to a Mobile TV Showcase and Radio and Audio Pavilion.

CABSAT 2008 will welcome trade visitors between 11.00am and 7.00pm from 4 - 6 March at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre Halls 1, 2 and Zabeel Hall. 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.