US to have first national pavilion at Mid East theme parks show

The pavilion, for which 200 square metres of space has been reserved, is being jointly co-ordinated by International Expo Consultants (IEC), organisers of TPFC, and the US Department of Commerce.

"This show has proven to be a good venue for US exhibitors to showcase their products and services," said Donald L Hubar, Programme Manager, Trade Fair Certification Programme, Department of Commerce.

"Our decision to endorse Theme Parks & Fun Centres is based on IEC's previous success in providing opportunities for US exhibitors to explore world markets and we will give outreach and promotional support, through our Gold Key Service and International Partner Search programmes, to help ensure expanded US exhibitor participation in 2003."

Next year's TPFC will be 30% larger than the 2002 event, embracing 3,500 square metres at the Dubai International Convention Centre. It will be the first trade show held at the latest addition to Dubai's world class exhibition and convention facilities.

The ninth showing of TPFC will see the debut of a dedicated children's edutainment and entertainment arena. IEC has launched the initiative in response to growing Middle East demand for state-of-the-art electronic and play equipment from a burgeoning youth population.

"About nine million of the over 28 million strong GCC population is under the age of 15 years and in seven years the size of this age group is projected to increase to 14 million, making them the biggest stake in the success of any company doing business in the region," said Mohammed Falaknaz, Vice President, IEC.

"Fierce competition in the region's rapidly expanding retail sector is another factor driving demand for the latest children's entertainment. Fun centres are now a key factor in every shopping mall's strategy to capture greater market share."

Another first at TPFC 2003 will be a water parks forum, supported by the World Water Parks Association. The association will organise a one-day industry conference and conduct certification courses during the show.