DEAL expo makes a splash

'Water has always been seen as a luxury and something to be enjoyed here in the Middle East. Now, with mammoth tourism developments such as Dubailand taking shape, the market for water-based entertainment is about to surge,' said Abdul Rehman Falaknaz, President of show organisers International Expo Consults (IEC).

'This year's DEAL expo is testament to that fact, and we are proud to be welcoming some of the world's leaders in water park technology to the show,' Falaknaz added.

UK-based Murphy's Waves is one such exhibitor. The company is promoting its new Point Break Surf System at DEAL 2008.

'Murphy's Waves plan to locate the new Point Break Surf System at prestigious locations around the world creating a professional surfing competition circuit with international media coverage, sponsorship and prizes. One such location for a Point Break Surf Pool would be in the Middle East and the DEAL convention will provide Murphy's Waves Ltd with an ideal opportunity to discuss the opportunity with developers,' said Jim Stuart, Sales Director, Murphy's Waves Ltd.

In recent years, Murphy's Waves Ltd has designed and manufactured wave machines for several projects throughout the Middle East. The company installed the Family Wave Machine at Dubai's Wild Wadi, an Action River Wave Machine at Kuwait Aqua Park, and a Survival Training Wave Machine at Abu Dhabi's Survival Centre.

'The Middle East has now become the market for leisure and tourism, out-stripping even the more established locations such as the US, Spain and the long-haul destinations in Australia and New Zealand. Now, with more flight options than ever before, the Middle East is quickly becoming the preferred holiday destination for a whole new generation of families. This increase in tourism will create a demand for high-quality amusement and leisure facilities, leading to continued growth in the industry,'

said Stuart.

'As the world leaders in wave machine technology, Murphy's Waves are looking forward to continued growth in the water park and leisure sectors throughout the region,' he added.

DEAL 2008 will welcome some 200 exhibitors, all showcasing the very latest in entertainment, amusement and leisure products. 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.