Over 30,000 salons in GCC spur demand for beauty products

The research studies attitudes of GCC's consumers and reports that the GCC has as many as 30,000 salons of which 3,000 are in the emirate of Dubai.

'The large number of salons in the GCC, particularly in the United Arab Emirates is driving demand for beauty products and services, a sector which is experiencing robust growth. The Middle East cosmetics and personal care sector has grown 12% annually over the past three years, with sales value of Dhs7.70bn ($2.1bn) in 2007,'

remarked Eckhard Pruy, CEO of Epoc Messe Frankfurt

Available figures show Middle East society puts a premium on appearance, skin care, beauty and grooming, areas that areas that are increasingly important to both women and men.

In fact, the consumption of cosmetics and perfumes in the region is said to rank among the highest per capita world wide, with an average purchase per head of around Dhs1,225 annually.

'In UAE, there is a beauty salon to fit every budget and cater to every beauty need for all nationalities. The products and services being offered are of the highest international standards and competition is keen', said Ms Andrea Werner, Senior Show Manager of Beautyworld Middle East. 'The GCC and the Middle East countries are becoming increasingly favored tourist destinations'.

Ms. Werner said 'The Beautyworld Middle East exhibition will give a boost to new growth areas associated with health, beauty and fitness sector'.

She added that companies will be required to develop new and innovative products in order to meet the variety of requirements from consumers.

Beautyworld Middle East is going to be held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre from May 18 to 20, 2008.

'With the rapid growth of shopping mall space by almost 50% annually, and the amount of retail space dedicated to beauty products growing by over 30% in the past three years the beauty and cosmetics industry is set to thrive in the Middle East,' said Ms. Werner. 'Our research also points out that of late, hair care players increasingly homed in on men who represent one specific consumer segment,' she added.

A highlight of Beautyworld Middle East 2008 is the 'Walk of Beauty';' a themed contest using a number of the region's hairdressers who are at the forefront of hair design.

Organised by MADI International - the leading hair and beauty equipment supplier to salons - this display will see top stylists from the Middle East in tough but friendly competition to carve the best hair makeover under strict time constraints.

Each competitor will be allowed 25 minutes to perfect a winning style and models will be used on a live stage, with the hairdressers working against the clock.

There will no doubt be a tremendous atmosphere as it counts down and the stylists race to finish their creations and impress the judges. The professional hair care products for this exciting feature will be supplied by Kadus, the leading hair care product manufacturer.

In addition to the various competitions held at the exhibition, visitors will also have the opportunity to attend the Halal and Natural Skincare seminar, and the permanent make-up for eyebrows workshop.

Beautyworld Middle East, which runs alongside Wellness and Spas, is the region's most popular cosmetic and personal care exhibition, now in its 13th year.

It will host 970 exhibitors representing 1,650 brands from 50 countries.

There will also be 31 country pavilions participating. It opens its doors this year from May 18-20, 2008 at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre, with an expected visitor attendance of 15,000
from 100 countries.