CABSAT 2008 kicks off with latest product launches and major deal forecasts

Following the opening, His Excellency Al Mansouri toured the exhibition, meeting leading international and regional suppliers, while reviewing latest developments in technology and displays of various broadcast equipment and products.

In its 14th edition, the three-day event is set to become the largest ever of its kind in the region attracting more than 650 exhibitors from over 50 participating countries, registering a dramatic 30% increase in space to cover a gross area of over 24,000 square metres.

CABSAT 2008 is being held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre (DICEC) and welcomes over 80% of companies from outside the UAE making CABSAT the most international edition to date. The world's major industry leading companies, including Harris, Sony, Arabsat, Horizon, Eurostar and Technosat are participating in the event, showcasing their latest technology and services.

Yahsat, a telecommunications satellite operator for hybrid communication satellites and Duo Software, a software solutions provider will be present at CABSAT for the first time ever. CABSAT 2008 will host 83 companies from the UAE, 52 companies from the UK and 47 companies from China, to name a few. CABSAT 2008 encompasses three main industry sectors - Cable and Satellite Equipment and Accessories, Satellite Communications and Broadcast and Production.

Helal Al Marri, Director General of DWTC said:

'We are honoured by the presence of His Excellency Sultan bin Saeed al Mansouri and are delighted by the strong industry response on the first day of this exciting event. Product launches in areas from cable and satellite manufacturers, satellite services to equipment and accessories confirm CABSAT's presence as a platform to establish business partnerships and alliances for major companies in the market.'

'CABSAT not only provides a targeted platform for ongoing business development, it also provides an essential opportunity for the industry to discuss its growth and development.'

One of the main show highlights this year will be the Knowledge Exchange featuring the CABSAT Broadcasting Conference, the GVF Menasat Summit and the HD Studio 'Live'. The CABSAT Broadcasting Conference will draw industry players to examine the digital shift in today's electronic communications. The conference will provide participants a real-life experience on digital transition in the Middle East and other parts of the world.

A presentation on new delivery platforms will address all aspects of introducing mobile broadcasting and HDTV, which impact the decision making process in the broadcast industry. The challenges and opportunities of IPTV will also be highlighted, enabling broadcasters to share their experience on the right time to launch the latest technology in broadcasting. The conference will concurrently explore issues that dominate current broadcasting services. Jamal Al Sharif, CEO of Dubai Studio City, will deliver the keynote address at the conference.

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.