Germany turns out in force at The Big 5

Simon Mellor, Vice President Construction for organisers dmg world media, said:

"With 370 exhibiting companies, the German pavilion at The Big 5 will be one of the largest international groups."

The Big 5 takes place at Dubai International Exhibition and Convention Centre from 23-27 November 2008.

"German companies are renowned for offering high-quality products and services and Germany has developed strong trade links in the Arabian Gulf with German companies playing a prominent role in the infrastructure projects of the region," he added.

Germany's trade with the Gulf Co-operation Council has doubled since 2000 to over $17bn while Germany's bilateral trade with the United Arab Emirates alone exceeds $10bn.

"The German business community considers The Big 5 in Dubai one of the most important exhibitions in the region and we are delighted that German companies will be attending in even greater numbers," Mellor added.

German exhibitors will be showcasing a wide range of products and services, including: air conditioning and refrigeration; bathrooms, sanitary ware and ceramics; building and construction; cleaning and maintenance; glass and metal; marble and machinery; water technology and environment.

Among high level officials in the German delegation to The Big 5 will be Ms Christa Thoben, Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy for the State of North Rhine-Westphalia.

The Big 5 is the largest trade fair for the building and construction sector in the Arabian Gulf and one of the world's largest shows for the construction industry and associated suppliers. There are more than 3000 exhibiting companies for the 2008 show and the organisers expect more than 50,000 visitors.

Alongside The Big 5 exhibition will be The Big 5 PMV - The Middle East's premier construction plant, machinery and vehicles at the same venue.