Gitex Shopper & Consumer Electronics Expo 2008 opens today

HH Sheikh Majid bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum had a firsthand glimpse of what lies in store for consumers over the next week.

Now in its 18th edition, Gitex Shopper continues to be a popular event. With exciting new additions to the show this year, none bigger than the action-packed Gitex Digital Game World, the show attracted a diverse audience ranging from die-hard electronics enthusiasts, casual visitors, serious gamers and expectant traders. Gaming enthusiasts of all ages were able to try out some of the most popular game titles in the world at the Free Play area.

"Gitex Shopper has become the most anticipated event for visitors who are keen to avail of the latest launches and fantastic offers made by the retail giants", said Mr Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai World Trade Centre, the organiser of the event. "This year the gaming tournament has certainly revved up the tempo of the Shopper", he added.

Global vendors from across the region and beyond are vying for attention at the event. Over 25,000 products, including laptops, PCs, mobile phones, cameras, gaming & entertainment, consumer electronics, home entertainment, office automation and a host of latest technology like net books and blue ray based electronics are being showcased at the event.

In addition, the Gitex Shopper Mega Draw will entitle visitors to win exciting prizes including a Renault Safrane, home theatres, laptops and lots more when they spend Dhs500 and above at the show. There will also be a "Visit and Win" promotion for an HP laptop.

Gitex Shopper 2008 will be held at the Central, West and East Halls in Dubai Airport Expo from 11am to 10pm from 18 - 23 October and from 3pm to 10pm on 24 October. Visitors can avoid the queues on-site by booking tickets online through Time Out Tickets.

New for this year is an expanded park and ride service for exhibitors and visitors in the Shaikh Hamdan Mosque parking compound in Garhoud opposite the Cambridge International School located near the Airport Expo. There will be a continuous free shuttle service between the car park and the Airport Expo from 9am - 12 midnight from 18 - 22 October and 3pm -12 midnight on 23 October. In addition to this, there will be shuttle buses operating to and from major city points.