Consumers' desire for more high-definition content pushes broadcasters to up their game in Arab region

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The 2007 industry report by the Satellite Industry Association (SIA) on HDTV channels has indicated a huge upswing in consumer demand for more high definition (HD) content while maximising the experience from their high definition television (HDTV) screens. The trend is forecasted to result in a further 600% growth in HDTV channels over the next five years globally, with an average annual growth of 35%.

In a move towards generating a better understanding of benefits that HD technology brings, CABSAT 2008 has partnered with Salam Media Cast, a leading solutions provider and system integrator in broadcasting and telecommunications, to host a live HD Studio during the exhibition for demonstrating the process of setting up HD studio working environment.

HDTV will close the gap between home screen entertainment and cinema, as various markets around the globe have already witnessed a strong shift towards HDTV transmission. Such trends however, have yet to reach the Middle East region with several broadcasters only now beginning to employ HD technology.

Mr Helal Saeed Al Marri, Director General, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) said:

'Broadcasters in the region are steadily responding to the issue and this is evident as we see the increasing numbers of broadcasters and HD equipment providers at CABSAT rising in the last five years. CABSAT provides the region's only showcase of international suppliers and features a simulated studio environment for visitors to holistically experience HD technology.'

CABSAT'S HD Studio 'Live' features a working simulated HD broadcasting environment, including production, post production, tapeless workflow, display, uplink and downlink on Arabsat's BADR-4. All equipment are sponsored by exhibitors at CABSAT 2008.

Mr David Lim, Industry Group Manager of Dubai World Trade Centre said, 'HDTV offers the gateway to a hi-tech lifestyle and HD Studio 'Live' demonstrates the prominent role of HD technology. Numerous surveys have already identified consumers who own HDTV sets want the premium visual quality of HD broadcasts. It is just a matter of time before broadcasters respond to these demands, realising how HDTV can drive revenue and value for viewers in the digital media age'.

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).

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