DEAL Expo promises week of fun

"DEAL 2008 represents the largest contingent of both local and international exhibitors showcasing the latest and most innovative products in leisure, amusement and entertainment to an industry which is even surpassing the developed countries in the sheer scale of amusement projects and theme parks being developed," said Abdul Rehman Falaknaz, President of show organisers International Expo Consults (IEC), on opening the DEAL show.

Some 200 of the world's leading companies in the field of entertainment are exhibiting at the show this week. The very latest in amusement rides; con-operated machines; gifts and souvenirs; high-tech equipment and special effects; and water-related products and services are all being showcased at the exhibition.

"DEAL is an important meeting point for leisure professionals in the region. We have exhibited every year and we take pride since we are the largest exhibitor at the show," said Prakash Vivekanand, Director, Amusement Services International L.L.C

"The Middle East is one of the fastest growing leisure markets in the world today. The cultural habits of the people living in the Middle East are also very conducive for the growth of the leisure business. We therefore see this as the most important market and have set up an effective infrastructure as a company to cater effectively to the requirements of this market," he added.

Amusement Services International is showcasing its range of advanced, interactive games, such as UFO Stomper, Sea Wolf, Lightspace Interactive Floor and several other new attractions from renowned brands such as Sega, Bay-Tek and Merkur-Disney.

Dubai-based Warehouse of Games is showcasing its product range, which includes video games, redemption games, air hockey, inflatables and children's rides.

Other large-scale exhibitors at this week's show include Pem Fountains, which is displaying its range of dancing water features.

The Middle East is considered one of the most dynamic leisure markets worldwide, with the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) tipping regional growth in leisure and tourism projects to reach US$3 trillion over the next 20 years.

It is reported that more than Dhs20m ($5.5m) will be spent on large-scale attractions in Dubai alone.

Some of the most recent theme park announcements include Tatweer's Universal theme park, being developed in Dubailand for the sum of Dhs8bn ($2.17bn). A $2.5bn Hollywood-themed park is also planned for the UAE.

Meanwhile, over $1 trillion is to be committed to developing the region's leisure landscape. Dubai Municipality spent Dhs27m ($7.3m) on developing a new Pond Park in Al Ghusais earlier this year, while Al Ain Zoo is set to be transformed into a $1bn leisure and wildlife destination by 2010.

DEAL takes place from April 20-22 at Dubai World Trade Centre. The exhibition is open to trade only and admission is free.

DEAL shows have the support of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA), the premier international trade association representing permanently situated amusement facilities and the manufacturers and suppliers that serve them globally.

DEAL is also supported by the Amusement Industry Council of Europe, including Association Fabricantes Y Exp. Maquinas de la Foia de Bunyol, Associazone Nazionale Costruttori Attrezzature, Spettcoli Viaggianti; Amusement & Leisure Equipment Suppliers of the UK; American Amusement Manufacturers Assocation); International Association for the Leisure & Entertainment; India Association of Amusement Parks & Industries; and the World Waterpark Association.